Senior Systems Engineer, C&S Operations

Senior Systems Engineer, C&S Operations

Salary Range: $89,622 - $140,000

The Senior Systems Engineer leads a team of Electronic Technicians responsible for the safe, reliable, and efficient maintenance of all Commuter Rail signal systems, grade crossing warning systems, defect detection systems, and train control systems. In this role, the Senior Systems Engineer and their team provide technical expertise and hands‑on field support for routine maintenance, as well as during system failures or incident investigations.

This includes performing detailed data log reviews to determine root causes and recommend corrective actions.

The position carries direct oversight of the Commuter Rail Computer‑Aided Dispatch (CAD) system, including leadership of a team of Electronic Signal Specialists responsible for monitoring, maintaining, and ensuring the system’s reliable operation.

The Senior Systems Engineer will play an integral role in the implementation of a new CAD system and will assist with establishing an integrated Operations Control Center (OCC), which will form a 24‑hour technical support capability, ensuring rapid incident response, operational continuity, and effective collaboration between control center and field operations.

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in signal, train control, and grade crossing warning system (signal systems) construction or maintenance, with at least 5 years in a supervisory role preferred
• Demonstrated experience in the implementation of SCADA and/or other train control systems
• Knowledge of PTC communications systems, voice and data radio networks, fiber optic and/or microwave backbone infrastructure, and associated network protocols such as TCP/IP, MPLS, and SNMP.
• Strong working knowledge of Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations, specifically Title 49 CFR, including but not limited to Parts 214, 228, 233, 234, 235, and 236
• Strong knowledge of testing procedures for signal apparatus and systems, with the ability to interpret instructions accurately and oversee testing to ensure safety, quality control, and regulatory compliance.
• Brings extensive experience in maintaining a high level of attention to detail, combined with a strong track record in building and leading cohesive, high‑performing teams to deliver operational excellence
• Comprehensive knowledge of industry best practices governing the management of signal systems
• Experience in applying collective bargaining agreements within a heavily unionized environment is preferred

• Strong communication skills with the ability to effectively engage with various disciplines and levels, both internally and externally
• Must be able to provide clear direction and safe leadership at all times
• Demonstrates strong interpersonal skills with the ability to mentor team members effectively, while driving change and promoting best practices to achieve operational excellence
• Possess a working knowledge of MS Office products with the ability to quickly learn and adapt to other software applications

• Demonstrates understanding and adheres to the KCS principles of Employee Engagement, Operational Excellence, Safety & Security, and Economic Performance
• Proven ability to develop and execute strategic plans within a 6–12 month horizon, aligning departmental objectives with organizational goals
• Ensure compliance with configuration management requirements as defined by regulatory standards and internal company policies
• Maintain full adherence to scheduled preventive maintenance (PM) tasks in accordance with established plans and procedures
• Ensure all testing activities are performed in compliance with applicable regulatory requirements and internal company policies
• Maintain compliance with client contract deliverables
• Oversee maintenance team to ensure end‑to‑end regulatory compliance and strict adherence to company policies and customer contract agreements
• Assist with the development and implementation of training programs to ensure technical expertise and adherence to standards
• Provide input to establish near, medium, and long‑term State of Good Repair (SGR) and Capital Investment Plans
• Promote…