
Railroad Civil/Structural Engineer
Position Title: Railroad Civil/Structural Engineer
Reports to: Chief Engineer
Location: Cooperstown, NY. System wide travel required
Schedule
This position works regular business hours, Monday through Friday, with availability required for other shifts as necessary. Occasional night, weekend, and off-hours work may be required based on project needs.
Position Objectives
The Railroad Civil/Structural Engineer will be responsible for the inspection, design, maintenance, and rehabilitation of bridges, culverts, retaining walls, and railroad-related infrastructure across the NYS&W Railway/CNYK Railroad system. This position plays a key role in ensuring the safety, reliability, and longevity of railroad structures while supporting capital projects, regulatory compliance, and operational needs. The successful candidate will bring strong technical expertise, project management capabilities, and a hands-on approach to problem-solving.
Major Responsibilities
Planning & Design:
- Conduct inspections and document the condition of existing bridges, culverts, retaining walls, and railroad infrastructure.
- Prepare detailed inspection reports and develop repair recommendations, including structural analyses and load ratings.
- Develop repair and rehabilitation designs, sketches, and detailing for smaller-scale projects.
- Work closely with external engineering consultants on larger-scale structural projects.
- Develop technical narratives, specifications, work scopes, bid packages, and cost estimates.
- Prepare grant applications and funding proposals, including cost estimates and presentations for state officials.
Execution & Field Operations:
- Oversee construction inspection and provide technical support to ensure compliance with engineering designs and railroad standards.
- Coordinate with contractors, consultants, and internal teams to manage project execution, ensuring safety, quality, and efficiency.
- Conduct site visits, perform field supervision, and monitor ongoing repair and construction activities.
- Provide engineering oversight for third parties requiring access to railroad property, including government agencies, utilities, and private entities.
Oversight & Compliance:
- Manage project schedules and budgets, ensuring alignment with annual capital and operational planning.
- Review and approve invoices, financial requisitions, and project documentation.
- Maintain electronic records, asset management databases, and GIS records.
- Ensure compliance with FRA regulations, state and federal engineering standards, and internal safety policies.
- Represent NYS&W in meetings with regulatory agencies, municipalities, and industry partners.
Expectations
- Travel within a 250-mile radius of the Cooperstown office, using a personal vehicle (mileage and expenses reimbursed monthly).
- Attend required annual railroad safety training and testing.
- Enroll in the company’s random drug and alcohol testing pool.
- Participate in industry conferences, seminars, and professional development activities.
- Work collaboratively with cross-functional teams to support the railroad’s infrastructure needs.
Required Qualifications/Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, with a focus on structural engineering coursework.
- Strong understanding of structural analysis, bridge design, and railroad infrastructure.
- Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and regulatory requirements.
- Excellent communication and project management skills.
- Valid driver’s license with the ability to travel regularly.
Preferred Qualifications/Experience
- Professional Engineer (PE) license or ability to obtain licensure.
- Experience in railroad, transportation, or heavy civil engineering.
- Familiarity with GIS-based asset management.
- Knowledge of FRA regulations and railroad industry standards.
Compensation & Benefits
- Salary Range: $55,000 - $80,000 annually (final salary determined based on skills, qualifications, and experience).
- Annual Bonus Program.
- 401(k) with company match.
- Health, Vision, and Dental Benefits.
- Paid Vacation.
- Railroad Retirement.
- Reimbursement for mileage and travel expenses.
Application Instructions
Submit your resume and cover letter to humanresources@nysw.com. NYS&W Railway is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment.