Senior Specialist, Signals & Communication
MONTREAL, Quebec, CA, H3B 2C9
Reference Number : 1186
Status : Permanent - Full-time
Annual Salary / Hourly Rate : $102,816 - $127,008
Number of positions to be filled : 1
Application Deadline : 02/28/2026
Did you know that VIA Rail is carrying out ambitious projects to modernize its services and infrastructure? From our new ultramodern train fleet to ongoing improvement of our infrastructure, we’re building the future of transportation in Canada. Working for VIA Rail is being a part of a collective effort in sustainable mobility.
****Make a direct impact on the future of train control in Canada****
VIA Rail is preparing for one of the most significant safety and technology upgrades in the Canadian railway industry: the Enhanced Train Control (ETC) program. We’re looking for an experienced Senior Specialist, Signals & Communications who wants to shape the future of safe, modern rail operations—while keeping a clear line of sight on practical, real-world operational realities.
Reporting to the Director – Infrastructure, you’ll be VIA Rail’s in-house expert for our signaling and train control systems. You’ll guide decisions, challenge suppliers when needed, and ensure our technology roadmap aligns with how trains actually run on the ground.
This role blends technical leadership, project oversight, and strategic planning—ideal for someone who likes being the bridge between engineering theory and operational execution.
VIA Rail Employee Benefits
- Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits package
- RRSP matching
- Bonus program for eligible roles
- Health, dental, vision and wellness coverage with flexible options
- Unlimited telemedicine access for employees
- Hybrid work schedule options (role‑dependent)
- Free or discounted train travel for employees and their families
- Strong career development and training opportunities
- Supportive, inclusive culture with diversity & inclusion programs and employee resource groups
- Wellness initiatives, volunteering opportunities, and social committees
What You’ll Do
1. Lead VIA Rail’s Technical Voice in the ETC Program (≈60%)
Be our internal expert for signaling and train control as we prepare for ETC, including technologies such as DAS, ATP, ETCS and PTC.
You will:
- Assess the feasibility and operational impact of ETC options.
- Translate operational needs into clear technical requirements.
- Validate vendor and expert proposals based on VIA’s operational realities.
- Identify risks, dependencies, and compatibility issues with existing systems.
- Support design reviews, requirement traceability, and technical documentation.
- Act as a connector between VIA teams, industry partners, regulators and ETC specialists.
Your expertise ensures VIA Rail gets a solution that works in the field, not just on paper.
2. Oversee and Improve VIA’s Signaling & Communications Infrastructure (≈40%)
In partnership with the Specialist – Signals & Communications, you will:
- Ensure inspections, maintenance and compliance for grade crossings and railway control systems.
- Manage the operating budget for these assets.
- Lead selected capital projects and ensure quality, cost and schedule alignment.
- Review designs, coordinate contractors, and verify field feasibility.
- Conduct audits and ensure corrective actions are implemented.
- Develop short- and medium-term investment plans aligned with future ETC integration.
- Build internal expertise and promote best practices.
Your leadership ensures today’s infrastructure remains safe and reliable while preparing for tomorrow’s modernization.
What You Bring
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering (licensed OIQ or PEO member) or equivalent experience.
- 10+ years of experience in railway signaling and communications.
- Knowledge of ETCS (Level 1 & 2), PTC, ATP, CBTC, ATO, and CTC systems.
- Experience with ElectroLogIXS, GCP or HXP grade‑crossing systems.
- Strong understanding of Transport Canada regulations, AREMA, and CN/CPKC standards.
- Bilingual in English and French (spoken and written).
- Strong analytical skills and the ability to explain complex issues simply.
- Experience managing projects in matrix environments.
- Ability to influence, collaborate, and work under tight deadlines.
- Valid driver’s license and the ability to travel as needed.
Work Environment
- Primarily Monday to Friday.
- Hybrid schedule: minimum three days per week on-site.
- Occasional field presence across the VIA Rail network (outdoor work required).
- Flexibility to meet project timelines.
At VIA Rail, we are proud to be an employment-equity employer and we strive to form teams that reflect the diversity of Canadian society. We aim to remove barriers to employment accessibility and aspire to provide an inclusive and equitable work environment where everyone is valued, regardless of their identity or differences, to enable them to reach their full potential.
If you need assistance in making the recruitment process or the position you are applying for more accessible, please let us know. Alternate arrangements may be offered to individuals who request them at any stage of the recruitment process. All information received in relation to arrangements will be kept confidential.
Note that we will only contact those who are selected for an interview.
Join our 3,000 other employees in helping provide Canadians with a safe, accessible, environmentally sustainable way to travel!