Project Designer (1006) - Communications

About the role

This position is responsible for undertaking network engineering assignments that are of "moderate complexity" in size and scope. The role provides 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.

Responsibilities

• Provides communications and network engineering analysis, design reviews and approves communications designs for installation by field forces and/or third parties.
• Provides conceptual, preliminary and final designs.
• Designs and implements new network solutions and/or improves the efficiency of current networks.
• Installs, configures and supports network equipment including routers, proxy servers, switches, WAN accelerators, DNS and DHCP.
• Procures network equipment and manages subcontractors involved with network installation.
• Reviews, monitors and oversees communications and network construction work in progress and takes necessary action to correct unusual communications and network equipment operations and recommends standard preventative maintenance procedures.
• Conducts preliminary engineering site walks with various parties, and reviews and approves 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 third‑party forces.
• Generates written memoranda, technical reports, audits, etc. in a professional, effective manner.
• Reviews and approves drawings and specifications.
• Writes specifications and Request for Proposals and reviews 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

• 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.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Healthcare Coverage – Medical, prescription, dental, and vision plans with little to no employee premiums.
• Retirement Security – Participate in a Defined Benefit Pension Plan and a 457B Deferred Compensation Plan to build your financial future.
• Work‑Life Balance – Enjoy paid parental leave, generous vacation time, and paid holidays to recharge and spend time with loved ones.
• Employee Wellness – Access wellness programs and resources to support your physical, mental, and emotional well‑being.
• Invest in Your Growth – Tuition reimbursement to support your education and career advancement.
• Student Loan Assistance – Positions qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, helping you manage and reduce student debt.
• Free Travel Perks – Receive a FREE SEPTA Transportation Pass, giving you unlimited access to all SEPTA services.

Pay

Starting Salary: Up to $90,688.00. Additional $5,000 salary increase for having a Pennsylvania PE License.

Opening Date: 10/02/2026 • Closing Date: 10/25/2026 • Job Grade: SAM 38