Principal Engineer-Track
Location: New York
Position at Long Island Rail Road
Title: Principal Engineer-Track
Department: Engineering
Post Date: 04/30/2025
Close Date: 05/13/2025
Hay Point Evaluation: 950
Salary Range: $128,613 - $175,100
Position Classification: Safety Sensitive
Location: Queens
Reports To: Assistant Chief Engineer Track
This is a Non-Represented Position.
This position is eligible for telework which is currently one day per week. New hires are eligible to apply 30 days after their effective date of hire.
Please note that this position has been designated as a "Policy Maker," pursuant to the New York State Public Officers Law & the MTA Code of Ethics. As such, you will be required to complete a Financial Disclosure Statement that will be provided to you by the New York State Joint Commission on Public Ethics.
SUMMARY:
Direct and control Track Department operations, capital construction and projects to achieve corporate goals and assure safe and reliable infrastructure through the development and implementation of efficient management systems. Oversee the planning, managing and implementation of all track maintenance and construction projects and ensure they are on schedule and within budget. He/she will ensure effective utilization of track forces, equipment, and materials to attain the completion of major funded track rehabilitation programs, such as: State of Good Repair (SOGR), Concrete Tie, Surfacing and Drainage, and the Annual Track Program. This position will ensure that the projects are operating safely on time, within budget, and in accordance with FRA and LIRR track standards and regulations.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Responsibilities may include but are not limited to:
- Direct & control the implementation of sound policies & procedures for controlling the Projects, Construction, Operation, Standards and Specifications, Asset Management of the Track Department ensuring staff training and compliance of same.
- Labor Relations - 1) Develop a working relationship with Local Representatives. 2) Interpret Contract. 3) Establish Training Program. Ensure adherence to contract. Handle all related labor issues including grievance/claims.
- Direct and control the proper balance and distribution of workforce, material and equipment to carry out the track program, capital programs and support all other reimbursable projects as necessary. Ensure projects are within budget and on time with high level of quality performance/production.
- Direct the preparation of Track Department Capital/reimbursable budget and other annual reports.
- Direct, control and monitor contract work under jurisdiction of subordinate staff.
- Provide leadership and direction to develop and motivate subordinate staff.
- Develop long-range programs to progress track and roadway construction in accordance with department goals and corporate mission.
- Direct the implementation and or promulgation of section-wide safety programs and initiatives.
- Represent Track Section at meetings on all capital and other projects. All other assignments at the request of Senior Management.
- Select, develop and motivate personnel within the department. Provide career development for subordinates. Provide prompt and effective coaching and counseling. Responsible for discipline/termination of employees when necessary. Review direct reports and approve performance appraisals. Promote safe work practices and provide safe working conditions. Create a professional environment that respects individual differences and enables all employees to develop and contribute to their full potential. Ensure a safe working environment and adherence to guidelines of company safety policies and procedures. Lead by example.
QUALIFICATIONS:
A). Required
- Bachelor's Degree in an Engineering discipline. An additional four years of demonstrated, directly related experience and education may be considered in lieu of the degree.
- Must possess 10 years of progressively responsible supervisory and management-related experience in an engineering (Structures/Track or related field) function.
- Experience managing a unionized work force with management-level experience, including responsibility towards a department budget, or demonstrated equivalent directly related Engineering Department experience may be considered.
- Strong knowledge and understanding of the operations of a railroad.
- Strong Knowledge and practical experience with civil engineering, track construction/maintenance/projects.
- Ability to effectively manage office and field personnel and coordinate work activities among the various department sections
- Effective verbal & written communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to demonstrate capability to work effectively with all levels of management.
- Thorough knowledge of Company Policies and Procedures, applicable collective bargaining agreements and engineering principles as applied to track structures.
- Proven project management level skills and experience with preparation and monitoring of budgets, estimates and schedules for major activities.
- Effective leadership, management, administration, program development, organizational and planning skills, with experience managing and motivating a large, diverse workforce.
- Proven effective problem-solving, decision-making abilities; strong analytical, platform and sound judgment skills.
- Ability to develop subordinates and willingness to assume responsibility for actions of subordinates.
- Must be a competent, mature leader who will develop the capacities of the organization.
- Proficiency with computers and various software packages.
- Understanding of ISO 9001 requirements and procedures.
- This position requires the individual to be available or on-call 24 hours a day as needed.
- Join and participate in industry professional groups (i.e., AREMA).
B.) Preferred
- NYS Professional Engineer's License
- Knowledge and understanding of the operations of a railroad
OTHER INFORMATION:
In addition to meeting the minimum requirements of the position, the selection process may include, but is not limited to, a pre-screening. assessment (i.e., physical, written and/ or practical evaluation) and interview. Candidates forfeit further consideration in the process if they fail to participate in any step of the process when scheduled. Make up dates/times will not be given. In addition, LIRR employee applicants must be in their current position for the 12 months immediately preceding the close date of this posting and must possess a satisfactory work. history, including attendance and discipline record. A record of more than ten sick days without medical documentation in two of the last three years is considered unsatisfactory attendance. Not all qualified applicants are guaranteed an interview due to the competitive selection. process. A medical examination and safety sensitive drug/alcohol test may also be required.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY:
MTA and its subsidiary and affiliated agencies are Equal Opportunity Employers, including with respect to veteran status and individuals with disabilities. The MTA encourages qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities, including military service members, to apply. Apply