Deputy Director C&S Projects, and Technical Support

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MTA Metro-North Railroad is a dynamic organization, operating out of the jewel of New York City, Grand Central Terminal.  We provide service to over 86.5 million customers, traveling in and out of New York and Connecticut.  A subsidiary of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Metro-North Railroad is one of the busiest commuter railroads in the nation.  MTA Metro-North Railroad strives to provide a safe and reliable commute, excellent customer service, and rewarding opportunities to its employees.

Position Objective

Responsible for directing and controlling Communications and Signal Projects Workgroup Resources (technical support group, engineering, design, labor, material, equipment, and third-party contracts) to effect safe, design, installation, testing, and construction of Metro-North communications and wayside signal infrastructure at all wayside right-of-way locations, yards, shops and onboard.  This position is directly responsible for ensuring compliance with railroad requirements, industry standards, and regulatory guidelines.  This position is also responsible for leading the development of all the new standards on the railroad pertaining to the design of signals, communications, and traction return as related to signal systems. This position is directly responsible for planning, directing, budgeting, managing, and coordinating the functions of the Communications & Signal Projects Department Group with Metro-North and MTA planning, procurement, budgeting organizations, and workgroups.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and direction to the C&S Projects Department workgroups (Design, Engineering, and Construction) in the support of, design, engineering, procurement, installation, and testing associated with the wayside signal systems, communication systems, and overall infrastructure utilized for the Metro-North operational and corporate functions.
• Ensure all C&S Projects Construction Force Account groups meet budget and schedule requirements in the execution of the work related to the communication and signal systems.
• Coordinate and provide leadership in the development and execution of the Metro-North C&S 20-year needs and 5-year capital programs and processes as they relate to signal and communication systems.
• Responsible for researching, managing, planning, and recommending the development of new technologies and the modifications and system improvements necessary to support current and future goals of the operation and corporate functions.
• Provide leadership in supporting the Metro-North Safety Program through the execution of required activities and policies associated with personnel working along or on the railroad right-of-way and other locations.

Required Qualifications

• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office and/or comparable applications.
• Strong knowledge of CFR 233, 234, 235, and 236 requirements.
• Strong knowledge of wayside construction techniques and practices for cable and systems.
• Strong knowledge of signal system design standards and practices.
• Strong knowledge of communications design standards and practices.
• Strong knowledge and experience in the integration of digital networks.
• Strong analytical skills in order to analyze new and existing products, equipment, and/or procedures.
• Strong knowledge of vital and non-vital wayside signal system hardware and software.
• Must be able to work in a high-profile/high-pressure environment.
• Must be able to manage complex multi-discipline projects.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to interact with internal departments and outside agencies.
• Must be able to implement and participate in Metro-North Railroad’s Priority One Safety Program
• Must be available 24 hours 7 days as required.
• Must have a valid driver’s license.

The following is/are preferred:

• Familiarity with Metro-North Policies and Procedures.
• Familiarity with Metro-North collective bargaining agreements.
• Familiarity with Metro-North Procurement and Budgeting Process and procedures.

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or related technical curriculum required.
• Minimum 10 years’ experience in the design, management, installation, testing, and operation of wayside communications and signal systems, which includes experience in vital and non-vital wayside signal systems, Radio, Fiber Optics, Telecommunications, and Control Systems.
• Minimum 7-10 years of Management experience encompassing Engineering, Capital Programs, Labor Management, Budget process and Manpower control.
• Minimum five years’ experience managing professional staff/a diverse workforce and/or projects.

Other Information

This is a Safety Sensitive position and is subject to toxicology testing.

Pursuant to the New York State Public Officers Law & the MTA Code of Ethics, all employees who hold a policymaking position must file an Annual Statement of Financial Disclosure (FDS) with the NYS Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government (the “Commission”).

Employees driving company vehicles must complete defensive driver training once every three years for current MNR drivers; or within 180 days of hire or transfer for an employee entering an authorized driving position.

Selection Criteria

Due to the competitive nature of the selection process, not all qualified candidates who meet the minimum requirements for the position are guaranteed an interview. To be selected for a position, one must meet the following criteria: (1) satisfy the minimum requirements listed in the job posting, (2) if applicable, successfully pass a written and practical exam, (3) satisfy a background investigation (including but not limited to, employment, education, and criminal history), and (4) pass a verbal interview. Metro-North may also require the applicant to undergo a physical ability test, and, if the Company extends a conditional offer, may require him or her to undergo a medical examination, which may include toxicological testing. Failure to pass any step within the hiring process will result in the disqualification of your application.

Additional Criteria for Current Employees: Current Metro-North employees must be in active service to be eligible for consideration. Agreement Employees applying for a position outside of their present craft are required to have worked in your current union for at least one (1) year preceding the Application Deadline to be eligible to apply for a posted position and have completed the agreed upon formal training commitment, including on-the-job training or lock-in requirement, if applicable (for example Signal Trainee, Foreman-In-Training, etc.). If you are transferring to another craft, you may be required to forfeit your seniority in your present union. Non-agreement employees must have worked in their current position for a minimum of one (1) year preceding the Application Deadline. Along with a background investigation (including but not limited to, employment, education, and criminal history), employees are also subject to an internal investigation, which includes an evaluation not limited to discipline records and performance assessments.

We offer a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package. If interested, please apply online at www.mta.info

HOW TO APPLY:

Qualified applicants can submit an online application by clicking on the 'APPLY NOW' button from either the CAREERS HOME page or the JOB DESCRIPTION page.

For instructions on completing the online application, go to the MTA intranet site and click on the PeopleSoft Information hyperlink. From there select the User Guides hyperlink to gain access to the "Viewing/Applying for Jobs Online" guide under the Recruiting section of the page.

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.