Principal Project Mgr - PTC - 90414980 - New York

About the Role

This role will be responsible for Amtrak's safety and reliability by working with rolling stock equipment (RSE) and the PTC Engineering Services group, acting as the Subject Matter Expert (SME) for the processes to implement and enhance the quality and reliability of Positive Train Control (PTC). The focus will be on I-ETMS and ACSES systems in use across the Amtrak system, including ITCM industry standards. The Principal Project Manager-PTC will report to the PTC Director, working in parallel with RSE, Digital Technology (BOS), Transportation, IMCS, and Mechanical. This position will collaborate to solve advanced technical problems pertaining to PTC, enhance interoperability, and drive robust efforts towards innovation for Amtrak, state rolling stock, tenants, and host railroad partners.

Responsibilities

• Provides expert technical guidance to the Mechanical team across the system, resolving major PTC locomotive-related troubleshooting.
• Acts as the SME on BOS messaging, working with DT, Engineering Services, and vendor support to resolve PTC anomalies not related to onboard defects.
• Conducts level two investigations of all communication paths, including GPS, 220 radios, wayside, BOS, and cellular equipment.
• Leads technical specifications and procedures for train control systems for both Amtrak and state rolling stock equipment.
• Reviews documentation for component upgrades, updates, and replacements, including qualifying vendors and products with engineering documentation and drawing reviews.
• Assists the mechanical department with engineering work practices and vendor management to increase equipment reliability and modify maintenance plans in asset management systems for PTC-centric issues.
• Reviews and approves design and procedure improvements related to equipment problems, including design flaws, retrofits, field modifications, and maintenance shortcomings.
• Participates in field tests, safety inspections, and FRA audits for both Amtrak and state rolling stock equipment for PTC.
• Supports, improves, and audits equipment onboard software policies, BOS and Wayside policies related to train control systems.
• Participates in industry advisory and regulatory boards as necessary.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree required OR equivalent combination of training, education, and relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
• 7 years of relevant experience required; 9+ years preferred.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s Degree or equivalent.
• Working knowledge of 49CFR236 and basic qualifications.
• Working knowledge of AAR Standards for Interoperable Train Control (ITC).
• 7+ years of engineering experience and a minimum of 5 years with PTC systems.

Skills

• 5+ years of experience with Interoperable Train Control Messaging (ITCM).
• 5+ years of experience reviewing and analyzing I-ETMS logs from wayside, locomotive, and back-office applications.
• Experience with 220 Mhz radios, including ITCR.
• Wayside Interface Unit (WIU) and Wayside Message Server (WMS) experience.
• Proficiency in ethernet-based network and RF/cellular communications systems.
• Knowledge of North American railway safety and regulatory practices, including AAR and FRA standards and rules.
• Experience with I-ETMS, ACSES, Wi-Tronix, and Wabtec systems for data collection, log reading, and interpretation.
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Project).
• Ability to assist in developing mechanical procedures, modifications, SMPs, and maintenance bulletins.

Work Environment

• Office work, primarily sitting and using a computer and keyboard.
• Travel as needed, up to 25%.

Pay

The salary range is $113,200.00 – $146,664.00. Pay is based on several factors including education, work experience, certifications, and more. Amtrak may consider a geo-pay differential based on the employee’s assigned worksite or location.

Benefits

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401K with Employer Match
• Generous Paid Time Off
• Wellness Programs
• Railroad Retirement Benefits
• Paid Caregiving Days and Backup Care
• Health Savings Account
• Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness
• Fertility and Family Building Benefits
• Student Loan Assistance
• Adoption and Surrogacy Assistance
• Tuition and Education Reimbursement
• Paid Family Leave
• Life Insurance
• Rail Pass Privileges
• Short- and Long-term Disability Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Commuter and Flexible Spending Accounts