FRA Roadmaster - C&S

Keolis-9; Somerville (MA); On-site; USD 104,000 - 123,000; Full time

Job summary

Keolis in Massachusetts is seeking a seasoned Communications Manager to lead the Communications team and oversee critical railroad communications systems onsite in Abington.

The role requires five years of progressive experience in railroad communications and strong knowledge of RF, fiber, and networking, plus ability to manage budgets and labor contracts. You will supervise staff, coordinate safety and compliance, and partner with stakeholders to ensure reliable, secure rail operations.

Qualifications

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent; additional technical training preferred.
• Minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in railroad communications, telecommunications, radio/RF systems, fiber optics, networking, electronics, or related tech field.
• Strong knowledge of railroad communications technologies including radio/RF, fiber optics, Ethernet/IP networking, PTC communications, electrical power, and related systems.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel across the Commuter Rail network and other locations.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage Communications employees, including hiring, work assignments, performance management, coaching, training, and recommendations for personnel actions.
• Identify training needs and ensure employees complete required technical, safety, and security training.
• Oversee communications maintenance and operational activities to support system reliability, service quality, and a safe, productive work environment.
• Ensure the quality of work performed by employees and contractors and address performance or workmanship concerns as appropriate.
• Manage departmental resources, including the annual budget, workforce utilization, scheduling, facilities, and assets.

Skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal & coaching

MS Office

Labor contracts interpretation

Education

High school diploma/ GED

Tech training in telecom/electronics

Job description

At Keolis, a leader in public transportation and proudly headquartered in Boston, our mission — We Imagine, We Care, We Commit— is more than words. It’s how we support our communities and how we support each other. As part of our team, you'll have access to a comprehensive benefits package designed with your wellbeing in mind. We offer a competitive benefits package that supports your health, wellbeing, and peace of mind. This includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with life and disability insurance. You’ll also have access to a variety of voluntary benefits such as hospital indemnity, accident, and critical illness coverage, as well as home, auto, and pet insurance. To help secure your financial future, we also provide a 401(k)-retirement plan with a company match. At Keolis, you're not just building a career — your part of something bigger.

Salary Range:

$104,319.50-$123,077.00
Position is onsite in Abington MA

Minimum Knowledge and Experience:

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent educational credential required; additional education or technical training in telecommunications, electronics, information technology, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in railroad communications, telecommunications, radio/RF systems, fiber optics, networking, electronics, or a related technical field.
• Strong working knowledge of railroad communications technologies, including radio/RF, fiber optics, Ethernet/IP networking, Positive Train Control communications, electrical power, and electronic systems.
• Demonstrated experience maintaining, troubleshooting, installing, or supervising mission-critical communications systems in a railroad or similarly critical operating environment; significant RF and railroad radio experience preferred.
• Valid driver's license required, with the ability to travel throughout the Commuter Rail network and other assigned locations.

Skills:

• Strong written and verbal communication skills across organizational levels and with external stakeholders.
• Strong interpersonal, coaching, and training skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word and Excel, with the ability to learn new software applications.
• Ability to interpret and apply collective bargaining agreements and labor contracts.

Key Accountabilities (Essential Job Duties):

• Demonstrates understanding and adheres to the KCS principles of Employee Engagement, Operational Excellence, Safety & Security, and Economic Performance
• Completes other duties as assigned
• Lead and manage Communications employees, including hiring, work assignments, performance management, coaching, training, employee development, and recommendations for personnel actions.
• Identify training needs and ensure employees complete required technical, safety, and security training.
• Oversee communications maintenance and operational activities to support system reliability, service quality, and a safe and productive work environment.
• Ensure the quality of work performed by employees and contractors and address performance or workmanship concerns as appropriate.
• Support contractor qualification and authorization in coordination with the Senior Engineer.
• Manage departmental resources, including the annual budget, workforce utilization, scheduling, facilities, and assets, to meet operational and financial objectives.
• Maintain accurate communications asset information in coordination with the Senior Engineer and IT/Digital Solutions.
• Interpret and administer collective bargaining agreements and applicable labor requirements in support of department operations.
• Maintain availability to respond to emergency calls and provide coverage for planned or special assignments as operational needs require.
• Ensure compliance with applicable safety, federal, state, company, and contractual requirements, including DOT, FRA, FCC, and regulations governing communications systems, and ensure hazards are identified and reported.

Working Conditions (including Physical Demands):

• Works in a professional office or operational support environment, managing assigned responsibilities and competing priorities in a fast-paced setting; uses sound judgment, problem-solving, and attention to detail to meet business objectives.
• Collaborates with team members and stakeholders; communicates clearly, maintains professionalism, and adapts to changing business needs.
• Requires regular use of computers, phones, virtual meeting platforms, and standard office equipment, with the ability to sit, stand, walk, and move throughout the work environment, with occasional lifting of up to 10 lbs.

Additional Statements:

• Drug and alcohol screening: Employment contingent upon passing pre-employment drug and alcohol screen. Also, contingent upon receiving a favorable background check. Must pass a physical examination.
• Safety commitment: Safety is a way of life at Keolis. By placing safety first, we ensure the wellbeing of our employees, customers, and communities. Together we can become the most successful transportation company in the world.
• Environmental commitment: Keolis is committed to protecting the environment by minimizing the impact of operations to our people and the communities in which we operate.
• EEO statement: Our policy is to afford Equal Employment Opportunity to qualified individuals regardless of their race, color, sex, religion, age, creed, marital status, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, or gender identification. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.
• Disclaimer and closing statement: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees assigned to this job, and Keolis retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position. Employees must be able to perform the essential job duties of this position satisfactorily. If requested, reasonable accommodation will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship. Keolis is committed to offering our employees competitive compensation and benefits, opportunities for development and growth throughout an exciting and rewarding career, and the safest work environment possible.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.