Traction Power Engineer

This position is open until filled. 
The first review of applications will begin on March 28, 2025 and weekly thereafter. 

The Traction Power Engineer supports the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the agency’s traction power systems, including substations and overhead catenary systems (OCS). This role is responsible for providing technical expertise in the inspection, maintenance, troubleshooting, and performance analysis of traction power equipment and systems. The Traction Power Engineer works closely with maintenance teams to develop preventive maintenance programs, address system faults, and ensure compliance with safety standards and regulatory requirements. Additionally, the engineer contributes to system upgrades, capital improvement projects, and long-term asset management planning. This position plays a key role in maintaining system availability and minimizing service disruptions across the rail network. The Traction Power Engineer assures substations, catenary and support equipment remain compliant with Valley Metro quality standards, specifications, FTA and/or ADOT requirements, and all safety-related aspects. The Traction Power Engineer will assist the Manager, Maintenance of Way by serving as a technical Subject Matter Expert (SME) for all of Valley Metro’s traction power substations.

Education:

• Bachelor of Science in Electrical, Mechanical, or Industrial Engineering, or a closely related field

• Five (5) years engineering experience with Overhead Catenary System (OCS) and Substation Systems Design 
  

Directly related experience may substitute for education on a year-for-year basis.  

Desired Qualifications: 

•Experience in public transportation 

•Experience in project management 

•Light Rail substation maintenance experience 

•Experience with training and curriculum development 

•Developing specifications for traction power substations and associated equipment

•Experience with all aspects of substation and catenary procurements

License and Certification: 

Background Investigation: 

Employment is contingent upon the results of a background check. 

The statements listed below describe the general nature and level of work only. They are not an exhaustive list of all required responsibilities, duties, and skills. Other duties may be added, or this description amended at any time.

Supports a 24 hour-7 days/week operation that includes: prioritizing work assignments; provides technical guidance to traction power maintenance. 

Evaluates the functional feasibility, electrical and mechanical design, and system reliability of various electrical and mechanical systems, equipment, and hardware associated with future and existing maintenance of way (MOW) systems as they relate to Traction Power system maintenance and repair; coordinate with other Valley Metro engineers, staff, and consultants to ensure compatible designs.

Directs and participates in the design and development of Traction Power and catenary projects and programs; approves final project plans, specifications, and cost estimates; approves engineering change orders for modification of substation or catenary control parts and equipment.

Assists in managing large capital programs including the procurement of new Traction Power equipment; reviews and provides comments for future projects.

Performs technical tasks in support of all Traction Power equipment, or parts procurements, including specification development, prototyping, design review, first article inspections, systems integration, quality assurance and quality control, quality inspections, safety certification, testing, post-delivery acceptance, reliability test, and warranty support.

Assists with administration of contracts relating to procurement, installation, testing, and start-up of various Traction Power systems, hardware, software, and related equipment; coordinates with systems engineers, consultants, and other system and civil contracts on issues; performs field measurements and calculations to verify quantities and quality of completed work.

Develops a corresponding data reliability centered driven maintenance program, Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), and material support program for all Traction Power subsystems; coordinates with the MOW technical trainer to instruct maintenance employees in the diagnosis, repair, and maintenance of advanced electronic systems equipment and technologies; works directly with Asset Management staff in support of the on-going maintenance program.

Participates and assists in the development and administration of the division's annual budget including forecasting funds needed for staffing, equipment, materials, and supplies. 

Communicates understanding and support of organizational goals through actions and spoken and written records; interacts effectively with individuals and groups within and outside of the organization; keeps all interested and involved stakeholders informed of matters requiring their attention.

Ensures compliance with all applicable policies, rules, regulations, and laws; stays abreast of legal, regulatory, and policy developments affecting area of responsibility.

Provides lead expert guidance to MOW Management, supervisors, consultants, systems engineers, and other support staff as required for specific assignments and within guidelines provide by the Chief Maintenance Officer; represents Valley Metro at various interagency meetings as a technical expert.

Stays abreast of new tends and innovations within the electrical engineering field. 

Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge Of: 
Operations, services, and activities of a comprehensive electrical engineering program
Principles and practices of electrical engineering design and construction
Principles and practices of electrical equipment and materials
Principles and practices of project scheduling and management
Principles and practices of engineering cost estimating
Electrical safety procedures
Methods and techniques of field measuring and testing
Methods and techniques of conducting construction site inspection and investigation
Electrical systems and facilities
Advanced mathematical principles
Principles and practices of contract administration and management
Current office procedures, methods, and equipment including computers
Specialized computer programs or systems utilized in electrical engineering design and construction including CADD
Principles of training
Related building codes, regulations, and provisions
Related Federal, State, and local laws, codes, and regulations
Related IEEE, ANSI, NFPA, IESNA, and other codes/design guidelines

Skill In:
Developing, reviewing, and modifying complex electrical engineering plans, designs, and specifications
Interpreting and explaining Agency policies and procedures
Preparing clear and concise reports
Managing and administering electrical engineering contracts
Analyzing complex electrical engineering problems, evaluating alternatives, and recommending solutions
Reading blueprints and schematics
Performing field inspections and taking measurements
Developing engineering project work scopes, criteria, budgets, and schedules
Understanding and following oral and written instructions
Interpreting and preparing revisions to engineering plans, drawings, and specifications
Communicating clearly and concisely both orally and in writing
Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work

Salary : $106,906 - $160,359