Engineer Communications Design
Job ID: 16740
Business Unit: Long Island Rail Road
Location: Various, United States
Regular/Temporary: Regular
Department: Engineer Commun Design & Radio
Date Posted: Jul 30, 2026
Description
Job Title: Engineer Communications Design
Department: Engineering
MTA Agency: LIRR
Primary Location(s):
Salary Range: $129,471 - $161,838
Position Classification:
Union Affiliation: Non-Union
Closing Date: 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.
This position is eligible for teleworking, which is currently one day per week. New hires are eligible to apply 30 days after their effective date of hire.
JOB SUMMARY:
The primary purpose of this position is to manage the design of new communications systems as well as support various Communications projects for the LIRR Communications Department. Must support all aspects of Communications projects and Communication system design and integration. This position will be responsible for project development, technical specification writing, project design, project design review, site surveys, and procurement of materials, manage the design staff with regard to radio, fiber, wireless networks, LAN/WAN, CCTV, VHF, UHF, audio visual public address systems, voice and data facilities within the company. Manage the troubleshooting and repair of LIRR communications systems.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Review Consultant/contractor designs and provide detailed feedback and or formal comments. Ensure the LIRR Communications systems integrate as per designs and plans.
Support the Department on a 24/7 basis for the handling of operational related service issues affecting conditions or for weather related events
Manage the radio electronics shops including activities and reports of radio technicians. Manage Radio Engineers
Research new and emerging Communications technologies and their relevant application to the department and project needs.
Survey sites as required. Develop drawings and work-plans. Update department records, provide project updates, Advise Principal Engineer on project developments requiring Communications department support, budget and headcount issues as they relate to projects, and all assignments as required by the Principal Engineer. Manage the integration of existing analog communications systems and equipment with newer digital communications systems such as fiber optics and synthesized VHF and UHF radio. Manage the development of technical specifications to facilitate the procurement of communications systems and equipment.
Attend design review meetings and project meetings, assist in developing training program for all new Communication Systems. Perform construction/system installation inspections and conduct quality audits/inspections on 3rd party contractors. Review and improve consultant submissions affecting communications systems. Manage the development of computer-aided technical drawings for the implementation of construction and maintenance of new and existing communications systems
Ensure a safe working environment and adherence to guidelines of company safety policies and procedures. Lead by example.
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. Review performance of staff. Create a professional environment that respects individual differences and enables all employees to develop and contribute to their full potential. Perform other assignments as requested by Senior Management
Performs other duties as assigned
Complies with all policies and standards
May be required to work hours outside regular work hours, as applicable
Observes the work performed by contractors, as applicable
Reviews invoices and approves them if the work has contractual standards, as applicable
Addresses performance issues with the contractor when possible, as applicable
Escalates issues to other parties when needed, as applicable
REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
Must possess a Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering or related field. An additional four years of demonstrated, directly related, equivalent experience and education may be considered in lieu of the degree.
Must possess minimum 6 years of recent related Telecommunications Engineering experience
Must possess effective interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively with all levels of management as well as the ability to develop effective working relations with unions.
Must have strong project management experience with experience preparing organizational manpower plans and budgets.
Must have experience managing a budget (i.e. capital project).
Must possess a thorough understanding of LIRR Communications Operations (or equivalent industry) with a strong background in communication practices and theories.
Extensive experience with Communications system operations and maintenance practices.
Demonstrated experience working on high profile projects.
Must have extensive, in depth telecommunications experience and knowledge to support decision making and influencing change.
Must posses a valid drivers license.
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 records. Candidates selected for this position may be placed in a competitive or non-competitive class position based on their qualifications
In addition to meeting the minimum requirements of the position, the selection process may include, but is not limited to, a pre-screening assessment (i.e., physical, written, and/ or practical evaluation) and interview. Candidates forfeit further consideration in the process if they fail to participate in any step of the process when scheduled. Make-up dates/times will not be given. In addition, LIRR employee applicants must be in their current position for the 12 months immediately preceding the close date of this posting and must possess a satisfactory work history, including attendance and discipline record. A record of more than ten sick days without medical documentation in two of the last three years is considered unsatisfactory attendance. Not all qualified applicants are guaranteed an interview due to the competitive selection process. A medical examination and safety-sensitive drug/alcohol test may also be required.
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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.
