Lead Systems Engineer - Controls & Train Automation (MATLAB/Simulink, Embedded Systems)

Job Description

Your models won’t stay in simulation—they’ll run on real trains.

Join Wabtec’s Train Performance & Automation team and develop control systems deployed in live freight operations—where performance, safety, and reliability matter every day.

How will you make a difference?

You’ll help design and deliver advanced control systems that power Distributed Power™, Remote Control Locomotive (RCL), and next-generation automation solutions used across global rail networks.

This is a high-impact, hands-on engineering role focused on developing and delivering control system functionality end-to-end. You will act as a key technical contributor and primary point of contact for control system performance—owning modeling, algorithm development, and validation while working across disciplines to ensure successful integration and deployment.

What will your typical day look like?

• Develop control algorithms for distributed train systems (Distributed Power™, RCL)

• Build and validate MATLAB/Simulink models for system behavior and performance

• Analyze and tune closed-loop control systems (stability, robustness, efficiency)

• Debug real-world issues across software, controls, and hardware interfaces

• Define and refine system requirements and validation strategies

• Support field testing and deployment in active rail environments

• Act as a technical point of contact for control system performance

What do we want to know about you?

• BS in Electrical Engineering (or related)

• 4+ years in controls, systems engineering, or embedded systems

• Strong experience with MATLAB / Simulink and control theory (feedback systems, modeling, simulation)

• Experience with system integration and validation

• Ability to solve real-world, physics-based engineering problems

Nice to Have:

• Python or C++ Experience in real-time or safety-critical systems

• Background in rail, automotive, aerospace, or industrial automation

Why Engineers Join

• Work on systems that are deployed—not just designed

• High ownership of control system performance

• Solve complex, large-scale physical system challenges

• Collaborate with experienced engineers and domain experts

#LI-PROMOTEDJOBS

Additional Information

Our job titles may span more than one career level. The salary rate for this role is currently $79300-113000 The actual salary offered to a candidate may be influenced by a variety of factors, such as: training, transferable skills, work experience, education, business needs, market demands and work location. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future. More information on offered benefits, which include health, welfare, and retirement, are available at mywabtecbenefits.com. Other benefit offerings for this role may include annual bonus, if eligible.

What could you accomplish in a place that puts People First?

At Wabtec, it’s not just about a job - it’s about the impact you make. When our people come together, we’re Expanding the Possible by continuously improving what we do and how we do it - for our clients and each other.

If you’re ready to revolutionize how the world moves for future generations, Wabtec is the place for you.

Who are we?

Wabtec is a leading global provider of equipment, systems, digital solutions, and value-added services for the freight and transit rail sectors. Drawing on more than 150 years of experience, we are leading the way in safety, efficiency, reliability, innovation, and productivity. Whether it’s freight, transit, ports, logistics, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise, technologies, and people together – are accelerating the future of transportation. With roots that date back to George Westinghouse, Thomas Edison, and Louis Faiveley, Wabtec has always built technologies and implemented solutions for a variety of sectors that are critical to meeting the needs of customers and governments alike.

Our global team of about 30,000 employees worldwide delivers performance that moves the world forward. We’re lifelong learners, obsessed with better. Learn more at

Culture powers us and the possibilities.

We believe the best ideas come from a mix of experiences and backgrounds. At Wabtec, we strive every day to create a place where everyone belongs. We’re building a culture where leadership, inclusion and your unique perspective fuel progress.

We’re proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome talent of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities, including race, gender, age, disability, veteran status and more.

Need accommodation? Just let us know - we’ve got you.