Transit & Rail Technology Lead

What You Will Do:

GFT is seeking a Transit & Rail Technology Lead to drive the strategic integration, technical delivery, and growth of technology solutions across high-capacity transit systems including BRT, LRT, Commuter Rail, Streetcar, and High-Speed Rail. This position serves as the division's subject matter authority for transit systems and technology integration - bridging planning, engineering, operations, and digital transformation.

In this capacity, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following:

• Develop and implement a Technology Strategy aligned with the Transit & Rail division growth plan.
• Identify emerging technologies that enhance client value and system performance.
• Advise executive leadership on technology positioning in major pursuits and mega projects.
• Support alternative delivery models with integrated systems strategies.

• Lead planning, design, and implementation of communications, ITS, fare systems, CCTV, SCADA, signaling, and OCC technologies.
• Oversee systems interface management across civil, rail, facilities, and vehicle contracts.
• Establish configuration management, cybersecurity, and systems assurance frameworks.
• Support FTA compliance and operational readiness reviews.

• Lead the technology component of proposals and interviews.
• Identify cross-selling opportunities across GFT sectors.
• Build partnerships with OEMs, integrators, and technology providers.
• Support expansion into new markets and major infrastructure programs.

• Build and lead a national transit technology practice.
• Mentor project managers and discipline leads on systems coordination.
• Establish QA/QC standards and design review processes.
• Coordinate with Alternative Delivery and Project Controls teams to manage risk and cost.

• Annual technology-related backlog growth target achievement.
• Technology scope capture rate in major pursuits.
• On-time and on-budget systems delivery metrics.
• Reduction in interface-related change orders.
• Successful FTA/operational readiness certifications.
• Development and retention of internal technology SMEs

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
• 12+ years of progressive experience in transit/rail systems and technology.
• Experience leading complex systems integration on major transit capital programs.
• Experience with FTA-funded projects and operational readiness processes.
• Strong understanding of cybersecurity and digital infrastructure principles.
• Excellent communication and executive presentation skills.

• Professional Engineer (P.E.) license.
• Systems Engineering certification.
• Experience with PTC, CBTC, or advanced rail signaling systems.
• Experience in alternative delivery environments.
• Experience leading national or multi-office technical teams.

The salary range for this role is $180,000 - $250,000. Salary is dependent upon experience and geographic location.

• Hybrid (in-person and remote) work environment.
• Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in addition to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
• Tax‑deferred 401(k) savings plan.
• Competitive paid‑time‑off (PTO) accrual.
• Tuition reimbursement for continued education.
• Commitment to professional development, access to internal and external training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations
• Incentive compensation for eligible positions.

At GFT, a privately held AEC firm, we innovate where transportation, water, power, and buildings converge. We call this the Infrastructure of Life. We measure our success by the strength of our relationships - that's why we're the employer of choice for 5,000+ of the industry's brightest engineers, planners, architects, inspectors, designers, and more.

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