Principal Project Manager Rail Systems

Key Responsibilities

• Lead development of rail systems design packages (traction power, OCS, train control, communications, SCADA, and related subsystems) from preliminary through detailed design. Manage systems-to-civil interfaces, coordinating closely with track, structures, stations, utilities, and roadway infrastructure. Oversee technical reviews to ensure compliance with Owner’s Requirements, as well as constructability, operability, and maintainability. Support testing & commissioning activities to verify system performance, safety, and reliability. Identify project risks early and develop mitigation strategies to maintain schedule, quality, and integration. Ensure all systems designs comply with applicable standards, codes, and safety certification processes relevant to U.S. transit systems and the Pacific Northwest. Collaborate across integrated delivery teams to support coordinated program execution. Support clients and stakeholders in understanding system functionality, lifecycle considerations, and long-term operational impacts. Translate complex technical concepts into clear, accessible insights for a broad range of stakeholders. Contribute to technical documentation, including design criteria, standards, and interface control documents. Foster a collaborative, transparent team environment and mentor engineers across levels. Candidate Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, systems engineering, or a related discipline. 15+ years of experience in rail systems, ideally across multiple subsystems (traction power, OCS, signaling, communications, SCADA, etc.). Demonstrated experience in design development, systems integration, and testing & commissioning on major rail or transit programs. Strong experience working within interface-heavy, multidisciplinary environments. Excellent communication skills, with the ability to convey technical topics to diverse audiences. High emotional intelligence, adaptability, and comfort operating within complex, evolving project environments. Experience with design-build or integrated delivery models. Prior experience on North American light rail, metro, or commuter rail systems - ideally with exposure to Sound Transit or similar agencies. Familiarity with the Seattle/Puget Sound transit landscape, including ongoing Link light rail expansions, is highly desirable. Bring your expertise, curiosity, and drive to make a difference. If you are ready to join a collaborative consultancy where your perspective is valued, your growth is supported, and you are empowered to lead with integrity, we would love to hear from you. Benefits & Rewards The expected salary for this position is $160,000 - $200,000. Individual pay is determined based on several factors such as work location, education, experience, and unique skills. In addition to base salary, Mott MacDonald offers performance-based bonuses and a comprehensive benefits package, giving employees a direct connection to our success. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to support the health, wellbeing, financial security, and professional growth of our employees. Eligible employees have access to medical, dental, and vision coverage, FSA and HSA accounts, company-paid life insurance, short-term and long-term disability coverage, and a competitive 401(k) plan with company matching. We also provide paid time off, paid holidays, caregiver leave, employee referral bonuses, professional registration and membership reimbursements, and tuition assistance to support continued learning and career development. Collaboration at Our Core At Mott MacDonald, we believe great ideas happen when we're together. Our hybrid approach centers on an in-office culture, with most of your time spent collaborating face-to-face and a minimum of three days per week in the office. We balance flexibility with connection, so you and your manager can choose how to meet clients, team, and personal commitments. Equal opportunity is the law. We seek to promote fair employment procedures and practices to ensure equal opportunities for all. We encourage individual expression in our workplace and are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels they have the opportunity to contribute. English version Spanish Version Chinese version All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, protected veteran status, creed, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, citizenship status or disability status.