SCADA Systems Engineer

As a Senior SCADA Systems Engineer for our premier transit client in the Washington, D.C. metro area, you will serve as the technical backbone for critical Train Control computer systems and network infrastructure. This high-impact role oversees the 24/7 reliability of mission-critical rail operations by administering high-availability RedHat and Windows environments, securing complex industrial networks, and leading a specialized support team through rigorous technical analysis. You will bridge the gap between high-level system design and hands-on troubleshooting, ensuring that the hardware and software powering train movements remain secure, compliant, and resilient against hardware failures or cyber threats in a high-pressure, real-time environment.

Key Responsibilities

System Administration & Lifecycle: Lead the design, implementation, and maintenance of RedHat Linux and Windows Server environments, managing the full hardware/software lifecycle from specification to documentation.

Mission-Critical Networking: Configure and secure fault-tolerant network infrastructures, including routers, switches, and firewalls, specifically tuned for real-time control systems.

Security & Policy Development: Architect and monitor industrial security policies and practices to protect Train Control Systems from external and internal vulnerabilities.

Technical Leadership: Direct a team of support staff in detailed technical analysis and troubleshooting, serving as the primary interface between management and technical specialists.

Operations & 24/7 Support: Ensure 100% uptime for four primary control facilities; participate in an on-call rotation to address emergency system faults and implement immediate corrective actions.

Process Documentation: Develop comprehensive operating procedures and troubleshooting manuals to standardize system maintenance and emergency response protocols.

Qualifications & Requirements

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical field (Master’s degree preferred).

Technical Experience: 7–10+ years of hands-on experience managing real-time SCADA or Industrial Control Systems (ICS) within a large-scale infrastructure environment.

Platform Expertise: Advanced proficiency in RedHat Linux and Windows Server administration, including hardware virtualization and high-availability clustering.

Networking Mastery: Deep knowledge of network architecture, specifically the configuration of ruggedized switches and firewalls in a SCADA context.

Communication Skills: Proven ability to translate complex technical designs into actionable procedures for non-technical stakeholders and executive leadership.

Industry Knowledge: General familiarity with railroad signaling, electrification, or general transit operations is highly desirable.

Flexibility: Ability to travel up to 25% and work occasional nights/weekends for critical system upgrades or outages.