OVERALL DESCRIPTION

The Senior Designer is responsible for leading the conceptualization and implementation of design solutions, guiding projects from initial concept to final execution. This role involves a high level of thinking and the ability to translate complex ideas into clear direction. Will mentor junior designers, providing guidance and feedback to ensure the quality and consistency of the team’s designs and adherence to SEPTA standards and goals.

This position is responsible for undertaking engineering assignments that are considered to be of “significant complexity” in size and scope. As a designer involved in engineering projects, this position is responsible for defining and coordinating in-house tasks of “significant” complexity. As a designer involved in design implementation, this position is responsible for coordinating project related activities of “significant” complexity. As an individual researcher, this designer is responsible for researching engineering concepts that are of “significant” complexity.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

• Consults with managerial level staff as necessary for project/program definition.
• Exercises proper judgement in the application of advanced engineering principles.
• Assists in the preparation of budgets for proposed projects/programs and work to be contracted to a third party.
• Demonstrates excellent technical writing skills.
• Provides highly specialized technical expertise in support of project/program activities.
• Provides mentorship to junior engineering staff.
• Assists manager on request in furtherance of his/her duties.
• Prepare Requests for Proposals, and manage consultant contracts, and coordinate design concepts and review with Operations Departments. May represent the Authority with special interest groups and/or local communities, and present designs at public meetings.
• Assist Project Manager during the construction and/or procurement stage of a project. This includes project management, construction management and coordination with governmental agencies and SEPTA's Operating Departments.
• Assist Project Manager in project management tasks and direct Project Designers and maintenance employees.
• Responsible for managing projects, determination of resources, and maintaining budget and schedule.
• Responsible for Engineering design and analysis in assigned field (i.e., Communications and Signals).
• Responsibilities shall include conceptual, preliminary, final design, and costing of projects as directed by senior level supervision/management.
• Implement design plans, specifications, and construction procedures in areas of responsibility.
• Participate in field investigations relative to adequacy of end product(s) being acceptable.
• Ensure accuracy and compatibility with SEPTA’s C&S Standards across SEPTA (i.e., both in -house and third-party projects) through the preparation and oversight of the implementation of standard designs, fabrications, and materials.
• Accumulate sufficient knowledge of current state-of-the-art processes, procedures and availability as they effect one's assignment.
• Possess the experience to detect appropriate contract/specification compliance in work assignments involving internal and/or third-party contractors.
• Complies with all Authority and departmental safety and security policies and procedures as well as all applicable job safety responsibilities. Reports any safety concerns, compromises or hazards affecting operations, the public, self and/or other employees. Responsible for personal safety and is encouraged to promote the safety of others.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• High School Graduate and thirteen (13) years of demonstrated design experience in repair and/or maintenance of systems or meaningful construction experience in a railway or transit environment required.
• An equivalent combination of relevant advanced education (one year of formal education equating to two years of experience) may be considered in lieu of the above requirements.
• Extensive knowledge in Communications & Signal Systems required.
• Understanding of FTA, PennDOT, FRA regulations, AAR Standards, AREMA standards and recommended practices required.
• Understanding and knowledge  of Train Control systems, Signal systems for City Transit Divisions and Suburban Transit Divisions.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to communicate effectively in a professional manner while working with all levels of personnel including outside agency personnel required.
• Must possess an understanding of construction project management techniques.
• Working PC knowledge in Microsoft Office suite required, and project management software
• Valid driver’s license required.