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Job Description:

Parsons is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Automated Fare Collection (AFC) Engineer to join our team for a major railway/metro project in the UAE. The AFC Engineer will be responsible for overseeing the design, implementation, integration, testing, and commissioning of the Automated Fare Collection (AFC) systems across the railway network, ensuring seamless operation and compliance with international standards and project requirements.

The successful candidate will work closely with the AFC Manager, Rail Systems Manager, and contractors to ensure the proper installation and functionality of AFC systems, including ticket vending machines (TVMs), fare gates, contactless payment solutions, and backend processing systems. The role requires strong technical expertise in fare collection technologies, as well as experience managing system interfaces, cybersecurity protocols, and real-time data exchange between subsystems.

What You'll Be Doing:

• Oversee the design, installation, configuration, and testing of AFC systems, including fare gates, TVMs, smart card readers, and mobile payment solutions.

• Ensure seamless integration of AFC systems with other rail subsystems, including train control, station management, and cybersecurity protocols.

• Review and validate technical specifications, design drawings, and software configurations to align with project objectives and industry best practices.

• Collaborate with contractors, vendors, and suppliers for timely and quality installation of AFC equipment across metro stations.

• Lead testing, commissioning, and validation of AFC hardware and software components, ensuring full system functionality before deployment.

• Conduct FAT, SAT, and SIT to verify performance, security, and compliance.

• Ensure AFC systems meet contactless EMV payment standards, smart card interoperability, and digital payment security regulations.

• Work with IT, cybersecurity, and data analytics teams to enhance system security and improve revenue management.

• Ensure compliance with international standards (ISO 14443, ISO 24014, ITSO) and local regulatory requirements.

• Develop and implement fare collection policies, security measures, and fraud prevention strategies.

• Conduct system audits and risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities and optimize performance.

• Collaborate with transport authorities, railway operators, and financial institutions to align AFC systems with public transportation policies.

• Coordinate with software developers and system integrators to resolve technical issues and optimize system efficiency.

• Provide technical leadership and guidance to engineers, contractors, and station personnel.

• Prepare and present progress reports, technical documentation, and risk assessments to senior management and stakeholders.

• Define maintenance procedures, troubleshooting protocols, and system upgrades to enhance AFC reliability.

• Implement real-time monitoring tools to track AFC system performance and ensure uptime.

• Stay updated with emerging AFC technologies to propose future improvements.

What Required Skills You'll Bring:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics, Computer Science, Transportation Engineering, or a related field.

• A Master’s degree in Transportation Systems, Railway Engineering, or Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) is a plus.

• 15+ years of experience in Automated Fare Collection (AFC) system design, installation, integration, and maintenance within large-scale railway/metro projects.

• Strong technical knowledge of fare collection technologies, smart card systems (MIFARE, NFC, RFID), and contactless payment solutions (EMV, QR codes, mobile wallets).

• Experience in system integration with backend financial systems, revenue clearing houses, and transport payment gateways.

• Familiarity with transport ticketing standards (ISO 14443, ITSO, ISO 24014) and regulatory compliance requirements.

• Proficiency in system security, data encryption, and cybersecurity best practices for AFC operations.

• Strong background in SCADA, PLC, and real-time monitoring systems related to fare collection.

Skills / Competencies:

• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with keen attention to detail.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration across teams and stakeholders.

• Ability to interface with all levels of the project team, clients, and other stakeholders.

• Skilled in reading, analyzing, and interpreting complex documents, and responding effectively to sensitive inquiries or complaints.

• Strong leadership and decision-making skills for managing complex technical challenges and multidisciplinary teams.

• Adaptability and resilience with a proactive approach to troubleshooting, performance enhancement, and continuous improvement.

• Opportunity to lead AFC system implementation for a landmark rail/metro project in the UAE, contributing to smart transportation and seamless passenger experience.

Parsons equally employs representation at all job levels no matter the race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, age, disability or genetic information.

We truly invest and care about our employee’s wellbeing and provide endless growth opportunities as the sky is the limit, so aim for the stars! Imagine next and join the Parsons quest—APPLY TODAY!

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