Director, Data Communication Systems

Hitachi Rail; Toronto; On-site; CAD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Hitachi Rail is seeking a Director of Data Communication Systems to lead a 20-strong team responsible for the design, deployment and lifecycle management of mission-critical networks for rail signaling and train control. You will apply deep expertise in data communications, SR-MPLS, RAN, and private 5G to deliver robust, secure solutions.

The role requires leadership, mentorship, and program delivery capabilities, with a focus on meeting strategic roadmaps and ensuring compliance with industry

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Engineering or Telecommunications.
• Minimum 15 years of experience in data communications and networking.
• Minimum 10 years in leadership roles.
• Experience with mission-critical systems in transportation, defense, or industrial automation.
• Strong understanding of systems engineering and lifecycle processes.
• Strong understanding of 3GPP standards.
• Proven expertise in SR-MPLS, RAN, Private 5G, LTE.
• RF communications (Wi‑Fi, UWB, Bluetooth).
• Network security (VPN, IPsec, firewalls, authentication).
• Excellent communication, leadership and stakeholder management in a matrix environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and implementation of secure, high-availability data communication systems for rail signaling and train control.
• Enforce design policies, processes and high-quality network documentation.
• Ensure adherence to deployment processes and FAT/SAT/SIT procedures.
• Mentor a multidisciplinary team across RF, SR-MPLS, and 5G domains.
• Drive the strategic roadmap for communication technologies aligned with product policy and project needs.
• Oversee system integration, testing, and validation of subsystems.
• Ensure compliance with standards, safety regulations and cybersecurity requirements.
• Collaborate with product management, bids and project delivery teams on proposals.
• Represent the organization in technical committees and customer meetings.
• Coach Work Package Managers delivering internal R&D and commercial projects.
• Oversee staffing, recruitment, and work assignments for projects.

Skills

Data communications

Networking

SR-MPLS

Radio Access Networks

Private 5G

Cybersecurity

OT networks

Leadership

Program delivery

Communication

Education

Master's or PhD in Engineering/Telecommunications

Tools

VPN/IPsec

Firewalls

Job description

About Us

A career at Hitachi Rail will help create a legacy. With operations in every corner of the world, our work goes to the cutting-edge of digital transformation and technology. From the multi-cultural strength of our global organisation to the sustainable and innovative ways we work to bring people together, there's something for everyone to get stuck into. And that's where you come in.

About Us

A career at Hitachi Rail will help create a legacy. With operations in every corner of the world, our work goes to the cutting-edge of digital transformation and technology. From the multi-cultural strength of our global organisation to the sustainable and innovative ways we work to bring people together, there's something for everyone to get stuck into. And that's where you come in.

Job Description

The Director, Data Communication Systems will lead a team of 20 engineers and specialists responsible for the design, deployment, and lifecycle management of mission-critical networks supporting Communication Based Train Control and related applications. This role requires deep technical expertise in data communications, networking, SR-MPLS, radio access networks, cyber-security, OT Networks/applications, private 5G technologies, combined with strong leadership, mentorship, and program delivery capability. The position will support Hitachi Rail’s growth in worldwide markets through building a resilient and highly skilled design & delivery team.

Key Accountabilities

• Lead the design and implementation of secure, high-availability data communication systems for rail signaling and train control.
• Enforce strict design policies, design processes, and high-quality network documentation.
• Ensure adherence to deployment processes and enforce FAT, SAT, and SIT procedures.
• Manage and mentor a multidisciplinary team of engineers across RF, SR-MPLS, and 5G domains.
• Manage the execution of the strategic roadmap for communication technologies, ensuring alignment with product policy and project needs.
• Oversee system integration, testing, and validation of communication subsystems.
• Ensure compliance with company processes for Data Communication Systems, industry standards, safety regulations, and cybersecurity requirements.
• Collaborate with product management, bids, and project delivery teams to support proposals and customer engagements.
• Represent the organization in technical committees, customer meetings, and industry forums.
• Provide support and guidance to teams for customer interactions on the delivery program.
• Manage and/or coach Work Package Managers delivering solutions to both internal R&D and commercial projects, with responsibility for scope management, on-time, and budget delivery.
• Manage overall department staffing, recruitment, and work assignments for projects.

Key Requirements

• Education:
• Master's or PhD in Engineering or Telecommunications.
• Experience:
• Minimum 15 years of experience in data communications and networking.
• Minimum 10 years in leadership roles.
• Experience with mission-critical systems in transportation, defense, or industrial automation.
• Skills:
• Strong understanding of systems engineering and lifecycle processes.
• Strong understanding of 3GPP standards.
• Proven expertise in:
• SR-MPLS network architecture and operations.
• Radio Access Networks (RAN), Private 5G networks, and LTE technologies.
• RF communications (Wi-Fi, UWB, Bluetooth, etc.).
• Network security (VPN, IPsec, firewalls, authentication).
• Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills in a matrix environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in Operational Technology (OT) and Mission-Critical Networks.
• Experience with Communications-Based Train Control systems.
• Familiarity with IEC 62443 and Cenelec 50701 standards.
• Familiarity with railway signaling standards and operational practices.
• Relevant certifications in networking (e.g., CCNP, JNCIP), wireless (e.g., CWNP), or cybersecurity (e.g., CISSP).
• This posting relates to an existing vacancy.
• Artificial intelligence may be used in the screening or assessment process for this role.

At Hitachi Rail, there is a place for everyone.

We welcome and value differences in background, age, gender, sexuality, family status, disability, race, nationality, ethnicity, religion, and world view.

It is our commitment to create an inclusive environment - we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer.