Assistant/Associate System Design Engineer

VTA; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 116,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

The VTA is looking for a Systems Design Engineer with a strong background in electrical engineering and project management. The role involves planning and executing projects related to transit systems, requiring both technical expertise and the ability to collaborate across teams. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to the future of public transportation, leveraging cutting-edge technology and innovations in design and engineering.

Benefits

Health insurance

Employee Assistance Program

Tuition Reimbursement

Professional Development Fund

Wellness Programs

Qualifications

• 4 years of professional engineering experience required.
• Experience in design, estimating, and construction of transit systems.
• Knowledge of relevant electrical codes and industry standards is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Manage engineering activities related to the design and construction of transit systems.
• Prepare and review engineering plans, specifications, and reports.
• Coordinate with contractors to ensure compliance with contracts.

Skills

Electrical engineering calculations

Project management

Coordination with technical teams

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical or Systems Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

ETAP

SKM

Job description

1 week ago Be among the first 25 applicants

Job Description

VTA is seeking a skilled electrical or systems engineer with project management expertise and a passion for powering transit systems—from concept to construction. Experience with tools like AutoCAD, SKM, and ETAP is a big plus!

Job Description

VTA is seeking a skilled electrical or systems engineer with project management expertise and a passion for powering transit systems—from concept to construction. Experience with tools like AutoCAD, SKM, and ETAP is a big plus!

The Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in electrical or systems engineering, with experience managing projects from design through construction. Familiarity with industry tools such as AutoCAD, Visual Lighting ( or other lighting software), SKM, or ETAP is desirable. Experience with transit systems—including overhead catenary, traction power, and facility electrical systems—is a strong plus. Strong project management skills and the ability to coordinate across technical teams and stakeholders are essential.

This position may be filled at different levels depending on the candidate’s qualifications, experience, and business needs. Title and compensation will be commensurate with the selected candidate’s background.

Desired Skills:

• Proficiency in performing electrical engineering calculations, including: Short-circuit analysis, Voltage drop calculations, Breaker coordination studies.
• Working knowledge of relevant electrical codes and industry standards, such as: NEC (National Electrical Code), NFPA 70e (National Fire Protection Association),NETA (Inter National Electrical Testing Association),IEEE standards
• Ability to prepare comprehensive electrical design drawings, including conduit and panel schedules, riser diagrams, single-line diagrams, and related construction documentation.
  
  

Selected candidates with a Professional Engineer License will receive an additional 4%.

Associate Systems Design Engineer

Salary: $135,696.00 - $164, 882.00/ annually

Definition

Under direction, the Associate Systems Design Engineer performs responsible professional engineering work in the planning, design, and construction of a specialty area of rail systems, and performs associated contract management for the Valley Transportation Authority (VTA).

Distinguishing Characteristics

This is the journey-level class in the professional systems design engineer series. Associate Systems Design Engineers typically perform more difficult or complex engineering work, using independent judgment, and typically serve as the project lead. Incumbents in this position provide lead supervision to lower level engineering and technical staff on a project basis.

The Associate Systems Design Engineer is distinguished from the next higher level of Senior Systems Design Engineer that the letter class has full supervisory responsibility over staff and consultants of a major unit or program.

Assistant Systems Design Engineer

Salary:$116,602.00- $141,792.00/ annually

Definition

Under general supervision, the Assistant Systems Design Engineer performs professional engineering duties in connection with the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of transportation and facility systems.

Distinguishing Characteristics

This is the second level within the Systems Design Engineer series. Incumbents typically perform moderately complex engineering work and exercise some latitude of independent judgment. Incumbents at this level may be assigned specific projects with minimal supervision. An incumbent may direct the work of lower level engineers, technicians, and others assisting with specific project assignments. The Assistant Systems Design Engineer may occasionally lead smaller, short-term projects or studies of limited scope.

This class is distinguished from the entry level class of Junior Systems Design Engineer in that incumbents in the latter class perform entry-level professional engineering duties under close supervision. This class is distinguished from the next higher class of Associate Systems Design Engineer in that the latter class is the journey-level in the series and incumbents typically serve as a project lead.

Application Details:

Classification Bargaining Unit: TAEA

Tentative Interview Dates: Week of July 7th, 2025.

Essential Job Functions

Associate Systems Design Engineer

Typical Tasks

• Performs professional engineering activities related to planning, design, and construction of one or more aspects of bus and rail systems, including traction power and overhead contact systems, signal systems, communication systems, trackwork, fare collection, security systems ,and other related systems;
• Provides engineering and other technical expertise in the areas of specialty in development of conceptual design of rail systems;
• Administers system aspects of procurement/construction contracts.
• Monitors system construction activities to ensure compliance with contract, and assesses pricing issues with the contractors;
• Prepares or directs the preparation of plans, specifications, reports, cost estimates, request for proposals and bid documents, and reviews bids for contract awards ;
• Reviews documents prepared by subordinates, consultants, and other parties plans, specifications, and;
• Makes preliminary designs and estimates for determining budgetary needs for construction and maintenance activities;
• Prepares a variety of reports, technical papers, correspondence, other documents and materials required for assigned projects;
• Represents VTA at technical meetings and before local citizens in public meetings and hearings; Reviews technical reports on system design submittals, reviews design submittals from contractors for contract compliance and recommends changes to existing planning and design criteria;
• Reviews issues raised by operations and maintenance staff, evaluates associated data, analyzes all aspects, and recommends solutions;
• Performs related duties as required.
  
  

Assistant Systems Design Engineer

Typical Tasks

Duties performed may vary depending on the area of assignment and within the working level.

• Performs drafting, engineering computations, and review of plans for transportation and facility systems and related projects, including traction power and overhead contact systems, signal systems, communications systems, track work, fare collection, security systems, and other related systems;
• Directs or coordinates field operations involved in gathering and compiling data for the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of transportation and facility systems;
• Assists in the review of design plans and contract specifications, engineering cost estimates, construction schedules, and engineering studies prepared by others;
• Prepares plans under supervision; provides engineering calculations to support planning and design of new transportation and facility systems or improvements to existing systems;
• Inspects construction projects or assists in inspections; conducts field tests; gathers samples of materials for laboratory testing;
• Writes engineering specifications;
• Makes cost and quantity estimates;
• Collects, computes, and compiles engineering data;
• Conducts research and prepares detailed engineering reports and other documents;
• Prepares and reviews Requests for Proposal (RFPs), contract compliance reports, and other reports and documents;
• Makes project presentations to technical staff;
• Performs related work as required.
  
  

Minimum Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

Associate Systems Design Engineer

Employment Standards

Development of the required skills, knowledge and abilities is typically obtained through training and experience equivalent to graduation from an accredited college or university with major work in engineering, plus four years of experience in the performance of professional engineering work in design, estimating, construction, and contract administration, with a strong emphasis in design, construction, and testing of rail transit and/or railroad systems.

Assistant Systems Design Engineer

Employment Standards

Sufficient training, education, and public or private sector experience to demonstrate the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Development of the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is typically obtained through a combination of training and experience equivalent to graduation from an accredited college or university with major work in transportation engineering or electrical engineering;andtwo years of relevant engineering experience.

Selected candidates with a Professional Engineer License will receive an additional 4%.

Supplemental Information

Associate Systems Design Engineer

Knowledge Of:

• Principles of one or more of the following bus and rail system aspects: traction power transmission, rectification, and distribution; overhead contact system; signal system logic and controls; communications (CTS, telephone, public address, SCADA), trackwork, security systems, and other related systems;
• Principles and practices of scheduling and coordinating engineering work and project control;
• Materials, methods, and principles used in the design and construction of rail systems;
• Applicable local, State, and Federal codes and regulations governing transit-related design and construction;
• Knowledge of C.P.U.C., NEMA, NEC, AREMA and similar codes governing transit systems design and construction;
• Engineering theory and practical application of operating transit systems;
• Specifications writing and estimating for rail systems projects;
• Principles and practices of contract administration and construction management, construction inspection, and materials testing;
• Software tools common to the field of engineering;
• Safety practices in the construction industry.
  
  

Ability To:

• Design traction power distribution, signals, communication systems, trackwork, or security systems;
• Supervise systems tests for areas of specialty;
• Design, check, sign, and stamp drawing and specification;
• Assist in inspections to achieve compliance with contracts, construction plans, and specifications;
• Prepare cost estimates for projects;
• Review and prepare clear and concise correspondence, reports, specifications, and other documents;
• Effectively represent VTA at technical meetings, and before local citizens in public meetings and hearing;
• Communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing;
• Take initiative, reason logically, and be creative in developing and introducing new ideas;
• Define problem areas and evaluate, recommend, and implement alternative solutions to issues and problems;
• Establish cooperative relations with staff, contractors, community organizations, representatives of Federal, State, regional, and city agencies, and the general public.
  
  

Assistant Systems Design Engineer

Knowledge Of:

• Communication, signal, contact, and other systems related to transportation system design and engineering;
• Principles and practices of engineering design of transportation systems and projects;
• Engineering mathematics;
• Engineering economics;
• Preparation and interpretation of contracts and technical specifications;
• Common engineering and drafting software tools (e.g. AutoCAD);
• Principles and practices of engineering drafting and mapping;
• Principles and practices of scheduling and coordinating engineering work;
• Basic principles of project management, construction inspection, and materials testing;
• Engineering theory and practical application to rail transit and related systems.
  
  

Ability To:

• Apply engineering principles and practices to independently solve engineering problems;
• Perform engineering work of average complexity in the planning and design of transportation facilities and projects;
• Interpret and prepare engineering drawings and specifications;
• Read and interpret real property descriptions;
• Conduct engineering studies and evaluations; write clear and concise technical reports;
• Make difficult engineering calculations quickly, neatly, and accurately;
• Maintain complete and accurate records;
• Operate personal computers and use common computer-aided drafting hardware and software;
• Analyze technical problems and make recommendations;
• Prepare RFPs and related documents;
• Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing;
• Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
  
  

What’s in it for You?

Health: VTA participates in a CalPERS-sponsored medical plan with VTA contribution to employee and dependent premium health insurance premiums. Employees pay a monthly contribution of any amount in excess of the Kaiser Bay Area Family rate.

Flex Spending Account: $300 employer-funded Health FSA for eligible employees

Vision: VSP full premium for employees and eligible dependents

Dental: Delta Dental full premium for employees and eligible dependents

Leave: 17 days of vacation (accrued), 80 Hours of sick time (accrued), 12 paid holidays per year, and 1 floating holiday per year.

Retirement:

• Participation in CalPERS
• Classic Members: 2%@55
• PEPRA Members: 2%@62
• 457 Deferred Compensation Plan (voluntary)
• 457 pre-tax
• 457 Roth
• Self-directed brokerage account option for qualifying employees
• Retiree medical coverage for eligible employees with VTA contributions to the retiree’s medical premium
  
  

Additional Perks:

• All active full-time employees and their eligible dependents are eligible for transit passes for use over VTA lines, including VTA Paratransit services.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is available to each employee, eligible dependent, and household member, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Professional Development Fund
• Wellness Programs
  
  

As we continue to implement our VTA Forward Plan, we aim to strengthen and increase our workforce to take on future opportunities and challenges by elevating our people and our services.

For more information about our VTA Forward Plan, visit: https://www.vta.org/VTAForward

General Instructions

Please read this entire job announcement before applying for the position. Print and keep a copy of this announcement so that you can refer to it. Questions not answered within this job announcement may be sent to [e-mail].

To ensure consideration, completed applications must be submitted online to the Human Resources department by the stated closing time and date posted. When the stated closing date is “continuous,” apply immediately; the position may close without notice. You will receive an immediate email confirming receipt of your submitted application. If you do not receive this email, contact NEOGOV's Applicant Assistance Line at [phone] between 8:00AM to 5:00PM (PST) Monday through Friday, excluding holidays.

Only on-line applications will be accepted for this recruitment (paper applications or resumes will not be accepted). Job Interest Notification Cards, or copies of previous, partial, or un-submitted applications, are not an acceptable substitute to a completed application.

ALL APPLICATION AND TESTING NOTIFICATIONS WILL BE SENT BY E-MAIL. Applicants should select e-mail as the preferred method of notification. Candidates must maintain an up-to-date, valid and reliable e-mail address. Candidates are also responsible for maintaining up-to-date phone numbers and addresses on their on-line account. Due to the number of applications received, candidates must check their application status through their on-line account. Contact NeoGov for assistance if needed.

Information on how to apply for jobs at the VTA is available on the VTA Employment website and from the NEOGOV's Applicant Assistance Line [phone]. NeoGov Applicant support is available from 8:00AM to 5:00PM (PST) Monday through Friday, excluding holidays.

Americans with Disabilities Act Accommodations

The Human Resources Department will make reasonable efforts in the recruitment/examination process to accommodate applicants with disabilities. If you wish to request an accommodation, call the Human Resources Department at [phone] or email at [e-mail].

Application Processing Information

All related current and past work experience (including VTA experience) must be listed and fully described in the Work Experience section of the application ("See Resume" is not acceptable). Incomplete or improperly completed online applications may be rejected even if you are qualified for the position for which you are applying. It is your responsibility to ensure that the online application reflects the work experience and education needed to meet the requirements for the position you are applying for. Although your resume may have all your experience and education details, please make sure to complete each section of the online application to ensure that your information is accurately captured during our screening process.

All applications are subject to review as to meeting minimum qualifications at any point in the recruitment process. Passing any step is no guarantee of continuation if it is determined that the applicant does not meet the minimum qualifications as stated in the class specification.

Candidates found to have exaggerated/falsified their qualifications, experience, training, and/or education may be disqualified at any point in the recruitment process and may be denied future employment with the VTA.

If selected for the position, candidates will be required to complete a criminal conviction disclosure form. Candidates who successfully become VTA employees, and fail to disclose any of the criminal background information as required may be subject to discipline up to and including discharge.

Eligible Lists typically remain in effect for six (6) months. However, Human Resources may abolish Eligible Lists at any time during the six (6) month period. Human Resources may extend eligible Lists for up to two (2) years. Eligible Lists may be used for more than one recruitment. If you have questions related to an Eligible List you might be on or were on, you should contact Human Resources.

If you have questions regarding your status as an applicant for this position, please call the Human Resources Department at [phone] or email at [e-mail].

VTA is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities or religious needs, absent undue hardship.

VTA is an equal employment opportunity employer. VTA does not and will not tolerate discrimination against applicants or employees on the basis of age, ancestry, color, marital status, mental or physical disability, genetic information, national, origin, immigration status, political affiliation, race, religion, creed, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, medical condition, disabled veteran or veteran status, etc.

VTA offers a generous benefit package including: vision care, a choice of health plans, dental coverage, an employee assistance program, life insurance, and liberal holiday, vacation, and sick leave. A credit union and deferred compensation are also available to employees at their option. Detailed information on VTA's benefits may be found here: https://www.vta.org/about/careers/benefits

As defined by the California Public Employees' Pension Reform Act (PEPRA):

• Classic Members' retirement benefit formula is 2% @55.
• New Members' retirement benefit formula is 2% @62.
  
  

All Classic AFSCME, SEIU, TAEA, and Non-Rep employees hired on or after 01/09/2012 pay 7.0% of salary toward the required employee contribution to PERS.

All New/PEPRA AFSCME, SEIU, TAEA, and Non-Rep employees pay 8.0% of salary toward the required employee contribution to PERS.

Social Security taxes will be deducted from each employee's bi-weekly salary.

01

Describe a project where you managed the electrical design from initial planning through to construction? What systems were involved (e.g., traction power, OCS, facility power), and how did you coordinate with different teams or stakeholders?

02

Describe your experience preparing electrical engineering specifications, drawings, cost estimates, and other supporting documents for proposed projects? Please share an example. Describe your knowledge and familiarity with AutoCAD, or equivalent software.

03

Describe your experience performing or reviewing electrical engineering calculations like short circuit, voltage drop, or breaker coordination studies. What tools or software did you use, and how did the results influence your design decisions?

04

Can you describe a time when you oversaw construction work to ensure it complied with the design and contract requirements? How did you handle any discrepancies or change orders, and what was your role in coordinating with the contractor to resolve them?

• Required Question

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Engineering and Information Technology

• Industries

  Transportation/Trucking/Railroad

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