We are seeking to hire candidates for our Project Designer (1006) - Communications position.
Opening Date: 10/02/2026
Closing Date: 10/25/2026
Job Grade: SAM 38
Starting Salary: Up to $90,688.00
Additional $5,000 salary increase for having a Pennsylvania PE License.
OVERALL DESCRIPTION
This position is responsible for undertaking network engineering assignments that are of "moderate complexity" in size and scope. This position is further responsible to provide technical support and direction for engineering activities including the definition and coordination for design review and implementation, establishing inspection plans, program/project development and consulting, statistical methods, audits, and continuous improvement approaches to ensure activities are consistent with SEPTA mission values and goals.
SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES
- Provides, communications and network engineering analysis, design reviews and approve communications designs for installation by field forces and or third parties. Provide conceptual, preliminary and final designs.
- Designs and implements new network solutions and/or improve the efficiency of current networks. Installs, configures and supporting network equipment including routers, proxy servers, switches, WAN accelerators, DNS and DHCP. Procure network equipment and manage subcontractors involved with network installation.
- Reviews, monitors and oversees communications and network construction work in progress and take necessary action to correct unusual communications and network equipment operations and recommend standard preventative maintenance procedures.
- Conducts preliminary engineering site walks with various parties, and review and approve third party communications and network construction drawings and specifications.
- Familiarity with, and ability to troubleshoot to the component level various types of communications and network systems and devices.
- Generates and coordinates design plans and specifications for in-house and 3rd party forces.
- Generates written memoranda, technical reports, audits, etc. in professional, effective manner. Reviews and approval of drawings and specifications.
- Writes specifications and Request for Proposals and review designs for all communications and network devices and systems including preparing proof of concept for all new wireless network devices, Wi-Fi, Cellular and other systems.
- Provides, promotes, and enforces safe working conditions in accordance with accepted safety practices and procedures.
- Complies with all Authority and departmental safety and security policies and procedures as well as all applicable job safety responsibilities. Reports any safety concerns, compromises or hazards affecting operations, the public, self and/or other employees. Responsible for personal safety and is encouraged to promote the safety of others.
- Performs other duties as assigned
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
- High School graduate and eleven (11) years relevant experience in communications/signals required.
- An equivalent combination of education and experience (two years of related experience equating to one (1) year of formal post high school education) may be considered in lieu of the above requirements.
- Familiarity with, and ability to design and troubleshoot to the component level various types of signal and communications systems and devices required.
- Understanding of FRA regulations, AAR Standards, AREMA standards and recommended practices required.
- Demonstrated computer skills in configuration and monitoring of railway communication networks.
- Experience in developing and managing projects required.
- Excellent written and verbal communications skills, including Microsoft Office Suite required.
- Valid driver's license required.
- Progressively responsible relevant work experience in communications in transit or railroad environment preferred.
- Experience with radio communications systems, cyber security implementation and network monitoring preferred.
