Assistant Engineer - Track Level I, II, III
Job ID: 15152
Business Unit: Long Island Rail Road
Location: Queens, NY, United States
Regular/Temporary: Regular
Department: Engineer Track Special Proj
Date Posted: Apr 6, 2026
Description
Job Title: Assistant Engineer - Track Level I, II, III
Department: Engineering
MTA Agency: LIRR
Primary Location(s): LIRR Service Area
Salary Range/Additional Compensation Details: $ 99,782 - 149,672
Regulated/ Safety Sensitive: Yes
Union Affiliation: None
Closing Date: Open Until Filled
About your agency:
Chartered in 1834, the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) is the largest, busiest, and oldest continuously operating commuter railroad in the United States. In 2024, this 24/7/365 operation served 75.5 million riders on a system that stretches nearly 120 miles - from Penn Station and Grand Central Madison in Manhattan to Montauk on the eastern tip of Long Island.
JOB SUMMARY :
Responsible for assisting in management of Track/MW Department, which is comprised of Track Maintenance East & West, Track Projects, Track Construction, Track Operations Track Special Projects and Track Right of Way. Assists with the planning, management, and implementation of track construction projects and ensure projects stay on schedule and within budget. Assist with the management of major track rehabilitation programs and ensure production is in accordance with FRA and LIRR track standards. Manage all projects while ensuring the most effective utilization of MW equipment, maintenance forces and material to assure that the department goals are achieved in a timely and cost-effective manner while ensuring the safety of train operations. Responsible to assist the Engineer of Track ensuring that all M/W equipment is maintained to be in reliable, safe condition and in a state of good repair and to assist with testing the quality condition of the entire track system and the timely identification of all LIRR safety comfort and FRA exceptions. This position will also assist with Track outage planning with respect to vegetation management, developing plans and special projects/programs.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES :
Responsibilities may include but are not limited to:
Assist with the development, implementation, execution and management of the annual track state of good repair program. Ensure that the track structure is maintained in a state of good repair. Foster a safe working environment by leading by example and persistently enforcing a safe work environment
Direct and manage the daily operations of the track Capital Improvement program, ensuring that departmental resources are utilized in the most efficient means obtainable Develop, implement, and manage annual maintenance and reimbursable budgets for section.
Assist with conducting field inspections via track walks, train rides and TC 82 inspections in order to comply with FRA Track Standards and LIRR MW 2000 and CE 1 standards and perform field lay out of proposed work.
Assist with design reviews, the management of material, equipment, contracts and labor resources during emergency situations such as snowstorms, derailments, wash outs, broken rails, pull parts, etc. Assist with Track outage planning with respect to vegetation management, developing plans and special programs.
Assist with providing and scheduling all training necessary to meet operational needs. Assist the utilization of the workforce. Spearhead integration of existing inventory control with CAMS. Assist with the management of all MW equipment to ensure that each machine is maintained in good repair. Assist with the management of the inventory database for all parts and materials.
Attend meetings as required and perform other assignments as requested by Sr. Management. Meet with public entities, as requested to discuss management efforts in detail. Provide updates to Public Affairs and support them in their public outreach efforts.
Direct, supervise and schedule staff assigned to protect the LIRR's interest at or adjacent to third party construction sites throughout the LIRR System.
Select, develop and motivate personnel within the department. Provide career development for subordinates. Provide prompt and effective coaching and counseling. Responsible for discipline/termination of employees when necessary. Review performance of staff. Promote safe work practices and provide safe working conditions. Create a professional environment that respects individual differences and enables all employees to develop and contribute to their full potential. Ensure a safe working environment and adherence to guidelines of company safety policies and procedures. Lead by example.
Assist with grievance research with respect to claims from the Union.
Manage and respond to unusual occurrences & emergency situations.
Perform other assignments as requested by Sr. Management.
Qualifications:
Level I
Must possess a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or related field. An additional four years of demonstrated, directly related experience and education may be considered in lieu of the degree.
Must possess two years of recent, related Engineering experience.
Must possess a familiarity with project management.
Must possess previous experience in a leadership capacity; familiarity with union agreements.
Must possess knowledge of Engineering operations, and computer skills.
Must possess strong communication (both oral and written) and interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively with all levels of management, communicate ideas and motivate employees.
Must possess strong organizational, planning, analytical, problem solving and decision-making skills demonstrating sound judgment.
Must possess a professional demeanor and high degree of integrity.
Must possess a valid NYS driver's license.
Level II
Must possess ALL required qualifications listed above for a Level I.
Must possess a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or related field. An additional four years of demonstrated, directly related experience and education may be considered in lieu of the degree. .
Must possess four years of recent, related Track Engineering experience.
Must possess knowledge and practical experience in a minimum of two areas of the Track disciplines; Construction, Maintenance, ROW, Projects or Operations.
Must possess an understanding of Railroad Engineering operations with an understanding of other Railroad disciplines.
Must possess knowledge of FRA and AAR Standards or demonstrated equivalent.
Must possess an understanding of Rail Road Engineering principles, LIRR operations and scheduling.
Familiar with of LIRR's infrastructures.
Familiar with coordinating track outages.
Knowledge of vegetation management equipment and applications on LIRR property.
Capable of writing details, articulate reports and giving presentations to senior management.
Familiarity with @types of vegetation, herbicides and evergreens that can be utilized as needed for green barrier along the ROW.
Knowledge of various tree trimming techniques and effective following up trimming practices.
Must have experience managing projects and meeting deadlines.
Must possess strong leadership skills.
Must possess knowledge of policies and procedures.
The Assistant Engineer II position also requires the following minimum requirements if elevated from Assistant Engineer I position:
Recommendation from the Section Head and approval of the Chief Engineer.
A 3.0 or better on two consecutive performance appraisals.
Completion of 50% of MECC classes.
Level III
Must possess ALL required qualifications listed above for a Level I and Level II.
Must possess a Bachelor Degree in Engineering or related field. An additional four years of demonstrated, directly related experience and education may be considered in lieu of the degree.
Must possess six years of recent, related Track Engineering experience/managing 3rd Party Contractors.
Must possess broad, diverse experience in more than two areas of the Track disciplines; Construction, Maintenance, ROW, Projects, and Operations.
Must possess experience working with FRA and AAR Standards or demonstrated equivalent.
Working knowledge of Rail Road Engineering principles, LIRR operations and scheduling.
Knowledge with of LIRR's infrastructures.
Experience coordinating track outages. Must possess experience assisting with design reviews and project management.
Must possess experience managing/supervising in a union environment with knowledge of applicable union agreements.
Working knowledge of vegetation management equipment and applications on LIRR property.
Knowledge of various @types of vegetation, herbicides and evergreens that can be utilized as needed for green barrier along the ROW.
Working knowledge of various tree trimming techniques and effective following up trimming practices.
Experience writing details, articulate reports and giving presentations to senior management.
Must possess knowledge of LIRR policies and procedures.
Must possess strong leadership skills.
The Assistant Engineer III position also requires the following minimum requirements if elevated from Assistant Engineer II position:
Recommendation from ACE and approval of the Chief Engineer.
A 3.0 or better on the most recent performance appraisals.
Completion of MECC classes
Demonstration of effective supervisory capabilities.
Consistent compliance with safety regulations and ensure the safety of those around him/her.
Preferred:
Understanding of Railroad Engineering operations with an understanding of other Railroad disciplines.
Must understand Rail Road Engineering principles, LIRR operations and scheduling
Knowledge of company policies and procedures.
Experience managing/supervising in a union environment is highly desirable
BENEFITS :
Commuting Assistance - based on operating MTA agency (complimentary transportation pass within the MTA's jurisdiction and tax-advantaged accounts)
Low Premium - High Quality Health Insurance Plans (lifetime coverage for eligible retirees and their dependents)
Pension plans and retirement savings accounts for eligible employees
Generous Paid Time Off and Holidays provided.
Tuition Reimbursement for eligible employees
Employee Assistance Programs
MTA Exclusive Employee Discount Programs
Work Life Services team and Office of the Chaplains unit
Employee Resource Groups
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OTHER INFORMATION :
Pursuant to the New York State Public Officers Law & the MTA Code of Ethics, all employees who hold a policymaking position must file an Annual Statement of Financial Disclosure (FDS) with the NYS Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government (the "Commission").
Actual salary offers may vary based on individual work experience. The annual salary range is subject to change and may be modified at the company's discretion.
Employees driving company vehicles must complete defensive driver training once every three years for current MTA drivers; or within 180 days of hire or transfer for an employee entering an authorized driving position.
Current employees should be in their current position 12 months prior to starting a new role and must possess a satisfactory work history,including attendance and discipline record.
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EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY/ADA DISCLAIMER :
MTA and its subsidiary and affiliated agencies are Equal Opportunity Employers, including those concerning veteran status and individuals with disabilities.
The MTA encourages qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities, including military service members, to apply.
If you require reasonable accommodation for a medical condition or disability to participate in the job application or interview process, please notify your MTA representative once you have been contacted regarding the role.
