Project Designer (1006) - Communications

Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority; Philadelphia (Philadelphia County); On-site; USD 80,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare coverage

Pension plan

Paid parental leave

Generous vacation

Tuition reimbursement

Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

SEPTA Transportation Pass

Job summary

Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) seeks a Project Designer (1006) - Communications in Philadelphia to lead network engineering analysis, design reviews, and coordination for design implementation. The role emphasizes strong communication, railway network knowledge, and collaboration with field forces and third parties.

The position offers a starting salary up to $90,688 with a $5,000 Pennsylvania PE license incentive, plus comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• High School graduate with extensive experience in communications/signals.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to prepare reports and memos.

Responsibilities

• Provide communications and network engineering analysis and design reviews.
• Design and implement new network solutions; install and support network equipment.
• Review construction work and ensure safety and quality standards.
• Prepare design plans and specifications for in-house and third-party teams.
• Write specifications and RFPs for network devices and systems.

Skills

Communications design

Verbal and written communication

Microsoft Office Suite

Education

High School graduate

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

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Project Designer (1006) - Communications

City: Philadelphia

Secure Your Future with SEPTA – A Leader in Transportation!

TheSoutheastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA)is thesixth-largesttransportation system in the U.S., connecting communities across a2,200-square-mile service region. SEPTA isat the forefront of innovationin the transit industry, ensuring reliable and efficient services while driving economic growth in thePhiladelphia region.

Only candidates who are authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship, will be accepted at this time.

We are proud to be recognized as:

2023 FORBES Best in State Employer

Philadelphia Employer of Choice for 2024

We are seeking to hire candidates for ourProject Designer (1006) - Communications position.

Opening Date: 10/02/2026

Closing Date: 10/25/2026

Job Grade: SAM 38

Starting Salary: Up to $90,688.00

Additional $5,000 salary increase for having a Pennsylvania PE License.

OVERALL DESCRIPTION

This position is responsible for undertaking network engineering assignments that are of "moderate complexity" in size and scope. This position is further responsible to provide technical support and direction for engineering activities including the definition and coordination for design review and implementation, establishing inspection plans, program/project development and consulting, statistical methods, audits, and continuous improvement approaches to ensure activities are consistent with SEPTA mission values and goals.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provides, communications and network engineering analysis, design reviews and approve communications designs for installation by field forces and or third parties. Provide conceptual, preliminary and final designs.
• Designs and implements new network solutions and/or improve the efficiency of current networks. Installs, configures and supporting network equipment including routers, proxy servers, switches, WAN accelerators, DNS and DHCP. Procure network equipment and manage subcontractors involved with network installation.
• Reviews, monitors and oversees communications and network construction work in progress and take necessary action to correct unusual communications and network equipment operations and recommend standard preventative maintenance procedures.
• Conducts preliminary engineering site walks with various parties, and review and approve third party communications and network construction drawings and specifications.
• Familiarity with, and ability to troubleshoot to the component level various types of communications and network systems and devices.
• Generates and coordinates design plans and specifications for in-house and 3rd party forces.
• Generates written memoranda, technical reports, audits, etc. in professional, effective manner. Reviews and approval of drawings and specifications.
• Writes specifications and Request for Proposals and review designs for all communications and network devices and systems including preparing proof of concept for all new wireless network devices, Wi‑Fi, Cellular and other systems.
• Provides, promotes, and enforces safe working conditions in accordance with accepted safety practices and procedures.
• Complies with all Authority and departmental safety and security policies and procedures as well as all applicable job safety responsibilities. Reports any safety concerns, compromises or hazards affecting operations, the public, self and/or other employees. Responsible for personal safety and is encouraged to promote the safety of others.
• Performs other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• High School graduate and eleven (11) years relevant experience in communications/signals required.
• An equivalent combination of education and experience (two years of related experience equating to one (1) year of formal post high school education) may be considered in lieu of the above requirements.
• Familiarity with, and ability to design and troubleshoot to the component level various types of signal and communications systems and devices required.
• Understanding of FRA regulations, AAR Standards, AREMA standards and recommended practices required.
• Demonstrated computer skills in configuration and monitoring of railway communication networks.
• Experience in developing and managing projects required.
• Excellent written and verbal communications skills, including Microsoft Office Suite required.
• Valid driver’s license required.
• Progressively responsible relevant work experience in communications in transit or railroad environment preferred.
• Experience with radio communications systems, cyber security implementation and network monitoring preferred.

Why Join Our Team? Enjoy Outstanding Benefits!

Comprehensive Healthcare Coverage – Medical, prescription, dental, and vision plans with little to no employee premiums.

Retirement Security – Participate in a Defined Benefit Pension Plan and a 457B Deferred Compensation Plan to build your financial future.

Work-Life Balance – Enjoy paid parental leave, generous vacation time, and paid holidays to recharge and spend time with loved ones.

Employee Wellness– Access wellness programs and resources to support your physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Invest in Your Growth – We offer tuition reimbursement to support your education and career advancement.

Student Loan Assistance – Our positions qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, helping you manage and reduce student debt.

Free Travel Perks – Receive a FREE SEPTA Transportation Pass, giving you unlimited access to all SEPTA services!

Join us and take advantage of these incredible benefits while making a difference in your community!

SEPTA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

SEPTA is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.