Project Engineer, Overhead Contact System

Company DescriptionWork with Us. Change the World.At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world’s most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world.We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.Job DescriptionAECOM is seeking a Project Engineer, Overhead Contact System (OCS), for one of our offices in Sacramento, Fresno, or Bakersfield, CA. This is an on-site role.SUMMARY: The Project Engineer, Overhead Contact System (OCS), provides engineering leadership for 25kV AC railway electrification systems on a major transportation infrastructure project. The position covers catenary, contact and messenger wire systems, cantilever assemblies, registration equipment, auto-tensioning systems, sectioning facilities, switching stations, neutral sections, overlap zones, grounding and bonding systems, traction return systems, and OCS monitoring systems. Responsibilities include reviewing OCS designs, wiring plans, structure layouts, electrification studies, interface documentation, and construction packages while coordinating interfaces with traction power, SCADA, trackwork, structures, signaling, communications, stations, maintenance facilities, operations, and rolling stock. Reporting to the Project Manager, OCS, the position provides technical support throughout installation, testing, commissioning, and energization, with travel of approximately 25–50% along the alignment. JOB RESPONSIBILITIES: Develop and review OCS engineering deliverables, construction packages, technical specifications, interface documentation, design changes, and technical submissionsLead review of OCS designs, wiring plans, structure layouts, electrification studies, and construction packagesReview catenary layouts, structural interfaces, grounding and bonding requirements, and electrical clearancesReview geometry requirements, system performance requirements, and dynamic interaction criteriaCoordinate interfaces between OCS, traction power, trackwork, structures, signaling, communications, and rolling stockCoordinate OCS interfaces with traction power substations, SCADA systems, stations, maintenance facilities, and operationsProvide engineering support for 25kV AC OCS systems, catenary systems, contact wire systems, and messenger wire systemsProvide engineering support for cantilever assemblies, registration equipment, and auto-tensioning systemsProvide engineering support for sectioning facilities, switching stations, neutral sections, and overlap zonesProvide engineering support for grounding and bonding systems, traction return systems, and OCS monitoring systemsProvide engineering support during installation, testing, commissioning, and energization activitiesSupport technical issue resolution, field design clarifications, and implementation challengesReview contractor technical submissions and turnover documentationDevelop and review testing procedures, commissioning documentation, and energization programsParticipate in Factory Acceptance Testing, Site Acceptance Testing, integrated testing, dynamic testing, and operational readiness activities, and review test results supporting system acceptanceQualificationsMINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: BA/BS + 6 years of relevant experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or educationPREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Railway Engineering, Systems Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related disciplineDemonstrated experience supporting OCS systems from design through testing, commissioning, and final acceptanceExperience reviewing engineering deliverables on large transportation infrastructure projectsStrong working knowledge of railway electrification interfaces and operational requirementsExperience reviewing catenary layouts, structure layouts, wiring plans, and electrification studiesWorking knowledge of grounding and bonding, traction return systems, and electrical clearance requirementsExperience coordinating OCS interfaces with traction power, trackwork, structures, signaling, and rolling stockExperience developing and reviewing testing procedures, commissioning documentation, and energization programsExperience participating in Factory Acceptance Testing, Site Acceptance Testing, and integrated testing programsStrong technical writing, coordination, and stakeholder engagement skillsProfessional Engineer (PE) licensure; additional years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of licensureHigh-speed rail project experienceExperience delivering 25kV AC OCS systemsExperience with high-speed catenary systems and electrification infrastructureFamiliarity with EN standards, FRA requirements, and AREMA guidanceExperience supporting dynamic testing and pantograph-catenary interaction assessmentExperience supporting operational readiness activities and system certificationExperience supporting entry into revenue service on an electrified passenger railwayAdditional InformationRelocation is provided for this role.Sponsorship is provided for this role.At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.About AECOMAECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com. What makes AECOM a great place to workYou will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community—where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines. SummaryType: Full-timeFunction: EngineeringExperience level: AssociateIndustry: Construction