Rail Systems Design Lead

Rail Systems Design Lead – Mott MacDonald

Apply for the Rail Systems Design Lead role at Mott MacDonald. Mott MacDonald is a leading international engineering consultancy with a global presence in over 150 countries. With a workforce of more than 20,000 highly skilled consultants, we specialize in buildings, energy, transportation, and water initiatives. Our focus on sustainability and innovation drives us to deliver high‑impact results for our clients worldwide.

About the Role

The Rail Systems Design Lead will develop, support, and lead the execution of rail systems design projects across Canada. This senior technical role involves managing large and complex projects, coordinating with multidisciplinary teams, and developing business opportunities for the Rail Systems practice. The role reports to the Rail Systems Practice Lead within Mott MacDonald Canada.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead project pursuits, including proposal development and team structure.
• Play a key role in project initiation and planning, estimating hours, developing schedules and execution plans.
• Lead the rail systems element of project delivery, managing detailed design and budget.
• Coordinate and manage resources across multiple disciplines and offices.
• Oversee sub‑consultants, subcontractors, and suppliers.
• Lead the QA process in alignment with the Mott MacDonald QMS.
• Manage project close‑out and facilitate client satisfaction surveys.
• Provide strategic direction for systems engineering and assurance across Canada and the U.S. as needed.
• Support delivery of key systems engineering processes (SE, SI, RM, CM, SA) across North American projects.
• Review and refine all systems engineering and integration processes used within Mott MacDonald.
• Develop and maintain relationships with clients and partners; represent the firm at industry events and conferences.

Candidate Specification

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (or equivalent); significant relevant experience may be considered.
• 20+ years of experience delivering large, complex infrastructure projects, preferably in rail and transit.
• Professional Engineer designation in Ontario, British Columbia or Alberta, or eligibility for membership.
• Proven experience managing design and delivery of systems for public infrastructure projects, including:
  • Traction Power Systems
  • Overhead Catenary Systems (OCS)
  • Power rail systems
  • Communication Systems
  • Signalling and Train Control
  • Tunnel Ventilation control systems
  • SCADA systems for control and monitoring
  • Public Address and Public Visual Information Systems
  • Security Systems (CCTV/Access Control)
  • Rolling Stock/Vehicles
• Experience with system integration for large railway infrastructure projects.
• Experience with “right side of Vee” activities, including Verification, Validation, testing and commissioning, and readiness for operation.
• Strong communication skills and fluency in English.
• Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams and lead technical discussions with clients and partners.
• Capability to hold competent business discussions with clients.
• Broad experience delivering major infrastructure projects.
• Knowledge of Systems Engineering principles and lifecycle management (IEC/IEEE 15288) and real‑world implementation.
• Knowledge of System Safety and Assurance (EN 50126, CMREA).
• INCOSE ASEP or CSEP certification is desirable.

Travel Requirements

• Occasional travel within Canada and the U.S. to Mott MacDonald locations and project offices.

Key Facts

• Location(s): Toronto, ON; Vancouver, BC; Calgary, AB
• Contract Type: Permanent
• Work Pattern: Full Time
• Market: Transport
• Discipline: Systems and Signals
• Job Ref: 12113
• Recruiter Contact: Adrienne Grego

Other Company Information

Mott MacDonald is an equal‑opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment accommodation in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005. Mott MacDonald Canada Limited will provide accommodations to job applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. If you require an accommodation, please notify us and we will work with you to meet your needs.

In compliance with the B.C. Pay Transparency Act, the expected salary range in Vancouver is $200,000 – $240,000. The successful candidate’s actual salary will be determined by qualifications, experience and role responsibilities.

We encourage the participation of all individuals and promote fair employment practices and equal opportunities for all.

Hybrid Working Policy

We offer a hybrid working policy that enables employees to choose how they work most effectively while meeting client, team, and personal commitments.

Referral Incentive

Referrals can double your chances of interviewing at Mott MacDonald.

#J-18808-Ljbffr