Assistant Vice President-Communication and Signal/Positive Train Control

ABOUT THE AGENCY

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 for its employees.

Metro-North Railroad reserves the right to remove this posting before the Application Deadline.

JOB SUMMARY

This position is responsible for overseeing and coordination of Metro-North Communications and Signal systems, Operations Technology (CTC/SCADA) systems and Positive Train Control (PTC) labor, material, equipment, third party contracts, and design resources to effect safe, economical operations, maintenance, upgrades, installation, testing and construction of communications and signal, CTC/SCADA and PTC infrastructure at all wayside right-of-way locations, interlockings, grade crossings, yards, shops, onboard, mobile and portable radios, base stations, CCTV & security systems, back office CTC/SCADA and PTC control centers. This position is directly responsible for planning, directing, budgeting, managing, and coordinating the functions with Metro-North, MTA organizations and workgroups. PTC program includes but not limited to design, oversight and coordination to ensure compatibility with Metro-North Railroad's (MNR) existing fleet, wayside and operating parameters.  Position will have responsibility for overseeing the new design, manufacture, testing, maintainability (manuals, maintenance allocation charts, bills of material, etc.) and acceptance.  In addition, this position is responsible for overseeing the coordination of Positive Train Control (PTC) as promulgated by the RSIA of 2008 and all stake holders, both internal and external including Executive Management, MTA, FRA and CDOT.PTC requirements are outlined in the Federal register identifying the prescriptive elements including system implementation, development and safety certification requirements. In addition, this position is responsible for executing various activities to support MTA's cybersecurity program and ensure compliance with Federal Railroad Association (FRA), TSA (Transportation Security Administration) and New York State regulatory requirements.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide leadership, strategy, planning and direction to the Communications and Signal (Signal Maintenance, Capital, Communications and Systems), Operations Technology (CTC/SCADA) and PTC Workgroups in the execution of the design, maintenance, upgrades, installation and testing of systems utilized for operational and corporate functions. Ensure all applicable federal requirements pertaining to the communications and signal systems are met.
• Ensure all Communication and Signal, Operations Technology and PTC Department workgroups meet budget and schedule requirements in the execution of the work related to the systems installed and maintained.
• Provide technical and operations analysis of C&S systems and provide senior management with required reports and documentation.
• Oversee specification development, design and procurement activities for the Positive Train Control and other Major Signal Projects.  This includes oversight of the manufacturers on behalf of MNR to ensure that systems are built in compliance with the technical specification.
• Represent MNR interests with; Long Island Railroad, CDOT, General Contractors, system suppliers, integrators regulatory agencies and MTA.
• Coordinate both the Design and Construction Phase of Project by providing cost and schedule estimates, manage the preparation of project plans and coordinating the project team.
• Report on project’s status and initiate corrective action to achieve project objectives.
• Evaluate, facilitate updates to schedule and budget along with tracking progress and cost status.
• Provide leadership and support of all wayside and on-board PTC system and interfaces.
• Manage the review and approval of design submittals, drawings, site plans and design changes.
• Coordinate activities between the various groups (Communications and Signal, Control Systems, Operation Services, Maintenance of Equipment (MofE) and Centralized Train Control and facilitate design, construction, testing and commissioning of the new systems.
• Direct all activities related to ensuring that all maintenance and reliability requirements are consistent with technical requirements and ensuring that all required support documentation is delivered in a timely manner
• Ensure warranty administration plan is comprehensive, complete, clear and manageable for all stakeholders and system acceptance process and criteria are established and agreed upon by all stakeholders, and system components and system design comply with all applicable Federal, NYS, MTA and MNR mandates policies and procedures.
• Provide leadership and direction in the execution of Cybersecurity Program in coordination with MTA IT Cybersecurity Stakeholders for compliance with FRA, TSA and NY State regulations.
• Provide departmental leadership in supporting Metro-North Railroad’s 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.
• Select, develop and motivate personnel within the Department.
• Provide career development for subordinates.
• Provide prompt and effective coaching and counseling.
• Review performance of staff.
• Promote safe work practices and provide safe work conditions.
• Create a professional environment that respects individual differences and enables all employees to develop and contribute to their full potential.
• Perform other assignments as requested by Senior Management.
• Performs other duties as assigned
• Complies with all policies and standards
• May be required to work hours outside regular work hours, as applicable
• Observes the work performed by contractors, as applicable
• Reviews invoices and approves them if the work has contractual standards, as applicable
• Addresses performance issues with the contractor when possible, as applicable
• Escalates issues to other parties when needed, as applicable

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Must have working knowledge of related Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations, project management involving transportation systems in a public sector procurement environment.
• Must possess the ability to effectively direct extremely large, complex projects with myriad aspects, such as Research & Development, FRA Regulations, system procurements and maintenance of equipment.
• In depth knowledge of equipment design, preventive maintenance, program planning, technical services, rolling stock and wayside system integration and configuration control requirements; system and components; basic understanding of microprocessor controls.
• Must have a diverse and technical background in the fields of electrical/mechanical concepts, principals and practices.
• Must have strong knowledge of signal software and hardware utilization and technical disciplines.
• Strong leadership, managerial, operational, analytical, administrative, communication and human resource skills.
• Must be a competent and seasoned leader who will develop the capacities of the organization, have the experience to implement organizational change with strong judgment, problem solving and decision-making skills.
• Knowledge of Railroad Signal and Communication Systems.
• Must be able to implement and participate in Metro-North Railroad’s Priority One Safety Program
• Experience with design maintenance of CTC, Power Control Systems and Communications Systems.
• Must possess progressively responsible, recent experience with complex system acquisition, technology, development/implementation procurement.
• Must have a valid Driver’s License.

The following is/are preferred:N/A

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

1. Bachelor’s Degree in Arts/Sciences (BA/BS)in Engineering. Demonstrated equivalent experience, education, and/or technical credentials to include an additional (4) four years of related experience may be considered in lieu of degree.
2. Minimum 12 yearsof progressive experience in the transportation industry with complex vital and non-vital signal system hardware and software including both relay and microprocessor technology.
3. Minimum 10 yearsof experience managing staff including union and management staff and responsibility towards a highly complex department’s budget.

The following is/are preferred:N/A

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS

Required:

• Valid Driver’s License

Preferred:

• - Professional Engineer (PE) License

BENEFITS - Managerial Benefits

Transportation & Financial Benefits

• Commuting Made Easy – Enjoy a complimentary MTA transportation pass, plus access to tax-advantaged commuter benefits to maximize your savings.
• Premium Health Coverage at Low Cost – Access high-quality individual, family and domestic partner healthcare, dental, vision and life insurance plans.
• Secure Your Future – Build long-term financial security through pension plans and retirement savings accounts designed for eligible employees.

Time Off & Work-Life Balance

• Generous Time Away – Recharge with substantial paid time off and comprehensive holiday schedules that support your personal and family commitments.
• Holistic Support Services – Access our dedicated Work Life Services team and Office of the Chaplains unit for personal guidance and support when you need it most.

Professional Growth & Development

• Learning & Development Program – Advance your career through structured professional development opportunities, skills training, and leadership programs tailored to support your growth within the organization.
• Educational Investment – Pursue your career goals with in-house training and professional development, tuition reimbursement support, and partnerships with educational institutions.

Employee Experience & Community

• Employee Assistance Programs – Comprehensive support services to help you navigate life's challenges with confidence and resources.
• Discounts & Perks – Take advantage of MTA employee discount programs offering savings on products and services.
• Connect & Belong – Join our vibrant Employee Resource Groups to build meaningful connections, share experiences, and contribute to an inclusive workplace culture.

OTHER INFORMATION

• 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”).
• Final salary is determined experience, skillset, and alignment with compensation practices. The posted range reflects expected compensation and may be updated as market or business needs evolve.
• Employees driving company vehicleswill be subject to License Monitoring andmust complete defensive driver training once every three years for current MTA drivers; or within 180 days of hire or transfer for an employee entering an authorized driving position.
• To be eligible for consideration for a new role, current MTA employees must complete at least one year of service in their current role prior to applying. Additionally, eligibility to interview is contingent upon maintaining a satisfactory record of job performance, attendance, and disciplinary conduct.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY/ADA DISCLAIMER

MTA and its subsidiary and affiliated agencies are Equal Opportunity Employers and encourage qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities, including military service members, to apply.

If you seek a reasonable accommodation for a medical condition or disability, or for a religious practice or observance, to participate in the job application or interview process, please notify your MTA representative once you have been contacted regarding the role.

HOW TO APPLY:

For Internal Applicants: Log in to the My MTA Portal, click on the My Job Search tile, select the Careers link, search for the desired position, click Apply, and follow the on-screen instructions.

For External Applicants: Visit www.mta.info, click the “Careers” link located in the footer under the "The MTA" section, then click on “See All Open MTA Positions”. Search for the desired position, click Apply, and follow the instructions.