Lead Freight Rail Design Engineer — Hybrid

GFT; Kansas City (MO); Hybrid; USD 80,000 - 115,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work environment

Competitive benefits package

401(k) savings plan

Job summary

GFT in Kansas City, MO is seeking a Civil Engineer, Freight Rail Design to join our Transportation Team. You will lead track and rail infrastructure design for freight projects, collaborate with Class I railroads and agencies, and mentor junior engineers in a hybrid work setting.

The role emphasizes design using MicroStation/OpenRail, adherence to AREMA standards, and coordination across civil, structural, and signal disciplines.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from an accredited university.
• Minimum of 4 years' professional experience in rail design.
• Licensed Professional Engineer, or able to obtain licensure within 6 months of hire.
• Proficiency in MicroStation and/or OpenRail.
• Understanding of AREMA standards and Class I railroad design guidelines.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work with public agencies, railroads, and private developers.
• Prior leadership experience or readiness to take on a lead design role.

Responsibilities

• Lead track and rail infrastructure design for freight railroads, intermodal facilities, and industrial rail projects.
• Develop plan and profile designs using MicroStation/OpenRail for new track alignments, industry track loops, yard expansions, and rehabilitation projects.
• Prepare horizontal and vertical alignment designs, turnout and crossover layouts, drainage considerations, and grading plans.
• Coordinate with Class I railroads, public agencies, and private clients to meet project specifications.
• Perform site investigations, track geometry calculations, and constructability assessments.
• Work alongside civil, structural, and signal teams to integrate rail projects into broader transportation networks.
• Support permitting and compliance with AREMA standards and railroad engineering guidelines.
• Mentor junior engineers, conduct quality control reviews, and help develop best practices for rail design.

Skills

Strong communication

Leadership

Rail design collaboration

Team mentoring

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering

Professional Engineer license

Tools

MicroStation

OpenRail

Job description

GFT in Kansas City, MO is seeking a Civil Engineer, Freight Rail Design to join our Transportation Team. You will lead track and rail infrastructure design for freight projects, collaborate with Class I railroads and agencies, and mentor junior engineers in a hybrid work setting.

The role emphasizes design using MicroStation/OpenRail, adherence to AREMA standards, and coordination across civil, structural, and signal disciplines.