Project Designer (1006) - Woodland Shops

Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority; Philadelphia (Philadelphia County); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading transportation authority as a Project Designer, responsible for supporting vehicle maintenance and electronic systems. This role offers a chance to innovate in the transit industry while enjoying comprehensive benefits and a supportive work environment.

Benefits

Comprehensive Healthcare Coverage

Defined Benefit Pension Plan

Paid Parental Leave

Tuition Reimbursement

FREE SEPTA Transportation Pass

Qualifications

• Minimum of three years of experience required.
• Good written, verbal and interpersonal skills required.

Responsibilities

• Assists with maintenance of SEPTA’s bus and rail vehicle electronic systems.
• Provides signal engineering analysis and design reviews.

Skills

Communication

Computer Skills

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering

Tools

MS Office

Job description

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Project Designer (1006) - Woodland Shops

Facility: Woodland Shop

City: Philadelphia

Date: May 14, 2025

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.

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) - Woodland Shopsposition.

Opening Date: 05/14/2025

Closing Date: 06/02/2025

Job Grade: SAM 38

Additional$5,000 salary increase for those with a Pennsylvania PE License

OVERALL DESCRIPTION

This position is responsible for assisting the Vehicle Technical Manager with supporting the on-vehicle and back-shop maintenance of SEPTA’s bus and rail vehicle electronic systems. This position is further responsible to maintain and audit the on-vehicle electronic signage and announcement systems (AVAS) programing utilizing the various vendor supplied software suites. The ideal candidate should be able to troubleshoot and diagnose vehicle communication problems for resolution.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provides signal engineering analysis, detailed design reviews, checker support for conventional wayside/ cab signaling/ Solid State interlocking (SSI) and interface to Positive Train Control (PTC) overlay systems. Provides conceptual, preliminary and final designs of signal systems and circuits for installation by field forces and or third parties.
• Writes specifications and Request for Proposals and review designs for all signal appliances, devices and systems including preparing proof of concept for all new signal devices and systems. Generates and coordinates design plans and specifications for in-house and 3rd party forces.
• Reviews, monitors and performs oversight and witnessing of factory testing of conventional/ SSI & PTC subsystem equipment and work in progress. Takes necessary action to correct unusual equipment operations and recommend standard preventative maintenance procedures.
• Conducts preliminary engineering site walks with various parties, and reviews and approves third party signal and communications construction drawings and specifications.
• Supports system integration of interoperable train control subsystems from different suppliers for compatibility and functional performance.
• Designs various types of signal and communications systems including but limited to vital processors, digitally encoded track circuits, AC and DC track circuits, 100 Hz and 60Hz signal power systems, signal interlocking, CTC interfaces.
• Manages the performance of 3rd party technical services including CSEC's, GEC's and other technical services.
• Initiates, upgrades and implements design standards to be employed in communications.
• Reviews and approves 3rd party designs and construction documents for conformity with established standards.
• Generates written memoranda, technical reports, audits, etc. in professional, effective manner.
• Participates in periodic review of drawings and specifications.
• 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

DISCIPLINE SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

• Creates and distributes (Wi-Fi and manual) all necessary vehicle sign, announcement, or schedule updates utilizing the various vendor supplied software suites across all SEPTA modes
• Assists engineering and supervision in project or task scope development.
• Assists the Electronics Labs with obsolescence issues.
• Exercises good judgment in application of technical and quality assurance principles.
• Assists in the preparation of budgets for proposed projects and work to be accomplished through third party.
• Generates written memoranda, technical reports, specifications, audits, etc. in a professional manner.
• Interfaces with vendors, other departments, and other transit Authorities when necessary concerning pertinent matters.
• Interfaces with team members to complete team projects and assignments.
• Participates in vendor technology presentations as well as periodic review of drawings and specifications.
• Utilizes computerized maintenance records and systems as an aid in implementing additional proactive maintenance practices and reducing the frequency of mechanical related service disruptions.
• Assists the Vehicle Technical Manager in the furtherance of his/her goals and tasks.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering orin related field,plus a minimum of three (3) years of experience required.
• An equivalent combination of education and experience (two years of related experience equating to one year of post High School education), may be considered in lieu of the above requirements.
• Good written, verbal and interpersonal skills required.
• Computer skills required. Must be proficient in MS software applications, including Excel, Access, Outlook and Word. (Must be able to learn new software).
• Valid driver’s license required.
• Progressively responsible relevant work experience in electrical / electronic maintenance, vehicle communicationsor engineeringvehicle systems is preferred.
• Computer based vehicle troubleshooting experience is 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!

Join the Best in Transit! Apply Today

Click Apply Now and take the next step in your engineering career with SEPTA!

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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.