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Senior Subject Matter Expert - Rail Operations and Maintenance

Washington D.C., US

DB E.C.O. North America (with “E.C.O.” representing “Engineering, Consulting and Operations") offers specialized rail and transit consultancy services to public agencies, passenger and freight railroads. DB E.C.O. North America is part of the DB E.C.O. Group and leverages Deutsche Bahn’s global expertise to advance mobility and rail transportation across the U.S. and Canada. Their cross-disciplinary team collaborates closely with clients to innovate their portfolios and elevate business performance. With a focus on sustainability, safety, and operational excellence, they strive to enhance the customer experience, increase rail usage, and “Transform The Future Of Mobility.” 

We are seeking a Senior Subject Matter Expert in operations and maintenance (O&M) for urban rail transit systems. This expert will provide technical leadership across all phases of the system lifecycle, with a focus on CBTC and Platform Screen Door (PSD) systems. The role requires deep knowledge of O&M strategy, system definition, lifecycle engineering (per EN 50126), and integration with signaling, rolling stock, and other systems.

Tasks & Responsibilities:

  • Lead the development of standard operating procedures, concept of O&M documentation, O&M strategies for CBTC and PSD systems.
  • Lead the definition of system architecture and technical specifications from an O&M perspective.
  • Define normal, degraded, and emergency operating scenarios and failure management strategies.
  • Provide expert guidance in RAMSS (Reliability, Availability, Maintainability, Safety, Security) planning and support integration of O&M best practices in the project lifecycle.
  • Review system specifications to ensure compliance with operational and maintainability requirements.
  • Develop and validate O&M manuals, inspection procedures, work instructions, O&M strategies, and staff training plans.
  • Collaborate with clients, operators, maintainers, and multidisciplinary engineering teams to ensure O&M best practices are embedded throughout the lifecycle.
  • Lead testing, commissioning, trial running, and operational readiness with a focus on maintainability, safety, and human factors.
  • Ensure compliance with applicable codes, regulations, and safety integrity level requirements.
  • Support business development initiatives by contributing to client acquisition strategies, delivering presentations, and maintaining strong client relationships.
  • Contribute to the strategic development of O&M services by enhancing service offerings and monitoring external market trends to identify and secure future project opportunities.
  • Attend business fairs, client meetings, and industry conferences to represent DB E.C.O. North America, build professional networks, and promote business growth.
  • Support the client feedback process and drive continuous improvement in service delivery to meet and exceed client expectations.
  • Mentor and educate consultants and engineers on O&M principles, promoting skills development, professional growth, and knowledge sharing within the team.

Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree in engineering, transportation, or a related discipline.
  • 15+ years of experience in rail transit O&M, including direct involvement with metro systems.
  • Proven track record in leading the development of O&M concepts for highly automated rail systems.
  • Strong working knowledge of U.S. rail standards and regulations, working knowledge in demonstration of RAMS, lifecycle planning, verification and validation in accordance with CENELEC standards.
  • Experience with automated train control, depot operations, and predictive maintenance strategies.
  • Excellent communication, report writing, and stakeholder engagement skills.
  • Ability to lead workshops, mentor junior team members, and coordinate technical disciplines.
  • Resilient, flexible, independent and well-structured working approach.
  • Strong written and verbal presentation and communication skills.
  • Experience in using MS-Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word).
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment with strong interpersonal skills.
  • Occasional domestic / international travel may be required.

Working Conditions and Travel:

You may work from your home office and/or a well-lighted, heated and air-conditioned indoor office setting with adequate ventilation.  Minimal overnight travel by land and air.

Physical Requirements, with or without a reasonable accommodation:

  • Ability to work at a computer workstation for periods up to 4 hours at a time
  • Ability to speak on the telephone for a total of up to 3 hours per day
  • Ability to sit for up to 3 hours without breaks at meetings
  • Ability to walk and stand for up to 4 hours without breaks at program site visits and meetings

We offer an annual gross salary between $160,000 and $200,000 USD for full-time employment, depending on professional qualifications and experience.

DB E.C.O North America, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, veteran status, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements. DB E.C.O North America, Inc. complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment.

For California applicants: We follow the California Fair Chance Act, San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and/or Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring. As is the case for applicants in any jurisdiction, you do not need to disclose your criminal history or participate in a background check until a conditional job offer is made to you. After providing a conditional offer and conducting a background check, we will consider hiring any qualified individual with arrest or conviction records in accordance with all relevant laws, and specifically will assess whether any conviction history directly relates to the job duties.  We will take into consideration the individual’s explanation and potential mitigating factors as defined by the law. 

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

Our Benefits:

Competitive Health Benefits

Our commitment to your well-being extends to providing a range of healthcare options tailored to your needs. Partnering with well-known carriers, we offer diverse plans covering essential services such as mental health support, preventative care, inpatient, and outpatient services, as well as health spending accounts and flexible spending accounts to enhance your healthcare experience. Moreover, our benefits package includes access to exclusive discounts on gym memberships and cell phone plans, ensuring comprehensive support for your health and financial wellness.

Retirement Savings 

To empower our employees in planning for their future, we provide both pre-tax and post-tax retirement contribution options, complemented by a generous company match. Whether you prefer to invest pre-tax income for immediate tax benefits or opt for post-tax contributions for potential tax advantages in retirement, our retirement program is designed to support your financial goals. Plus, with our company match, your contributions are further amplified, helping you build a secure and prosperous future.

Paid Time off & Holidays 

As a full-time employee, you're treated to an enticing package of benefits, including 10 annual holidays, the freedom to select an extra holiday, and the opportunity to accrue vacation time.

Wellbeing Benefits

In support of employee wellbeing, we're proud to offer an Employee Assistance Plan (EAP). This comprehensive program provides a wide array of services aimed at enhancing mental health and overall wellness. From mental health counseling and legal resources to life and relationship support, crisis assistance, childcare resources, and beyond, our EAP is here to ensure you have the support you need, whenever you need it.

 

 

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