Engineer - Radio Network Design and Development Level I & II

Job ID: 8455

Business Unit: Long Island Rail Road

Location: Queens, NY, United States

Regular/Temporary: Regular

Department: Engineer Commun Design & Radio

Date Posted: Aug 14, 2024

Description

Job Information

Title: Engineer - Radio Network Design and Development Level I & II

Department: Engineering

Close Date: 08/22/2024

Hay Point Evaluation: 732

Salary Range: $ 102,707 - $ 128,384

Position Classification: Safety Sensitive

Location: Queens

Reports To: Engineer - Communications Design Level III

This is a Non-Represented Position.

Please note that this position has been designated as a "Policy Maker" pursuant to the New York State Public Officers Law & the MTA Code of Ethics. As such, you will be required to complete a Financial Disclosure Statement that will be provided to you by the New York State Joint Commission on Public Ethics.

Summary

Responsibl e to design, develop, manage, direct , coordinate, and maintain radio-based communications transmission systems for both voice and data applications on LIRR property. Additionally, the position will be required to comment on outside organization's wireless-based proposals affecting LIRR operations including wireless Carrier system expansion, Carrier technology upgrades, lease agreement proposals, etc. Support the development of radio R&D initiatives and assist in the Communication department's capital project development. Support other groups in the maintenance of legacy systems including transmission systems and applications. Interface/support other LIRR operating groups as needed. Assist in managing the day-to-day operations of the radio group, including FA management, accident/incident investigations, budget analysis, planning, updating staff, and other issues required by the Engineer. Assist in the management of the radio groups. Fill in for the Engineer Design Level III as required.

Responsibilities:

Responsibilities may include but are not limited to:

• Assist in the Design, Development and implementation of various radio projects including ROIP, MTA PD radio, narrowband VHF voice radio testing/compliance, Radio infrastructure planning and development, testing , and cutover. Propagation modeling, testing, identification of materials, submission of requisitions, managing installation of materials/technical oversight, test , and cutover support. Assist in specification/project development. Manage 3rd party contracts and contractors.
• Investigate the latest technologies and equipment applicable to Radio transmission systems for use in the Railroad industry. Continue to develop R&D function of the design group. Lead radio research initiatives. Recommend new apps and technologies. Provide input into future planning including updates to communications strategy, capital project development, development of life cycle replacement program, etc. Initiate briefings of the state-of-the-industry to staff.
• Manage and provide guidance and instruction to radio forces for proper installation and maintenance of newly installed equipment. Support of all radio maintenance functions. Assist in the handling of grievances, trials, investigations, and discipline procedures for employees within the jurisdiction. Coordinate with the Engineer Communications Maintenance and the Manager Resource Development Administration. Ensure rules and decisions are consistently applied and in compliance with policies, procedures, and collective bargaining agreements.
• Test and inspect field installations for proper operation and quality control.
• Manage the estimates and schedules for specific projects, as required .
• Periodically review and update all policies/procedures related to radio system installation and maintenance. Implement new quality procedures as required. Comment on outside submittals related to radio systems and make recommendations.
• 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 direct reports and approve performance appraisals. 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. Perform other assignments as requested by Senior Management.

Qualifications

Level I

A)

• A Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering or related field. Demonstrated, directly related, equivalent experience may be considered in place of the degree, subject to approval.
• Must possess approximately 2 - 4 years of experience in radio signal transmission and modern radio network architectures.
• Must possess experience developing specifications, managing system deployments, etc.
• Must possess knowledge of RF (Radio Frequency) transmission theory, network traffic analysis, radio coverage analysis, radio network planning, RF frequency planning, radio protocols , and radio system components/devices.
• Must possess knowledge of at least one RF (Radio Frequency) coverage modeling software package is required (Radio soft/EDX preferred).
• Must possess knowledge of/familiarity with radio standards including IS 95.1, EIA/TIA 222G, FCC OET 65, ATCS Spec 200, CFR 47 Part 90, FCC regulations and processes, manufacturer-specific signaling protocols, etc.
• Must possess excellent writing and verbal communication skills.
• Must possess knowledge of developing specifications, managing systems deployments, etc.,
• Must possess excellent computer skills.
• Must possess the ability to manage people effectively (represented and management).
• Must possess the ability to manage projects within a schedule and budget.
• Must possess the capability of managing the development of system/component specifications.
• Must possess the ability to produce high-quality work under pressure.
• Must possess demonstrated leadership skills.
• Must possess a valid driver's license .

B)

• Possess a General Radiotelephone Operator License (otherwise must obtain license within 12 months of appointment to Level I) .
• An unexpired certificate as an Engineer-in-Training or Intern Engineer.
• Good understanding of Railroad communications and operations and knowledge of construction techniques in the installation of systems including radio tower construction.
• Knowledge of two-way radio and Public Address systems.
• Knowledge of labor/management relations.
• Professional Engineering (PE) certification .
• Demonstrated a history of being a proactive problem solver.
• Project cost analysis and estimating abilities.

Level II

A)

• Must possess all the required qualifications listed above for a level I.
• Must possess approximately 5 -7 years of experience in radio signal transmission and advanced radio network architectures.
• Must possess a General Radiotelephone Operator License (GROL) .
• Must possess experience directing field personnel in a union environment.
• Must possess experience with Radio Over Internet Protocol (ROIP).
• Must possess experience developing specifications, managing systems deployments, etc ,
• Must possess knowledge of FCC regulations and filing requirements.
• Must possess knowledge of simplex VHF radio system architecture.
• Must possess an interest in researching and reporting on new technologies.
• Must possess a demonstrated history of being a proactive problem solver.
• Must possess project cost analysis and estimating skills.

B)

• Knowledge of public safety radio technologies and systems.
• Radio site construction experience .

The Engineer II position also requires the following minimum requirements if elevated from the Engineer I position:

• Recommendation from the Section Head and approval of the Chief Engineer.
• 3.0 or better on two consecutive performance appraisals.
• Satisfactory job attendance.
• Completion of 50% of MECC classes.
• Compliance with safety regulations and ensure the safety of those around him/her.

Other Information

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.

Equal Employment Opportunity

MTA and its subsidiary and affiliated agencies are Equal Opportunity Employers, including with respect to veteran status and individuals with disabilities.

The MTA encourages qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities, including military service members, to apply.