Who WE are:

RailPros is the premier provider of engineering and diversified safety services to America’s rail and transit industry. Driven by a passion for our people, clients, and communities, we are committed to solving our customers’ challenges and earning their trust through teamwork, continuous improvement, and service excellence. As a people-first organization, we prioritize the well-being and growth of our employees, fostering a culture of caring and support. We believe that when our people thrive, our company thrives.

Our mission is to enhance mobility, safety, and quality of life for residents, passengers, and partner companies. We do more than just provide services – we are constantly innovating and staying abreast of industry developments to help our customers succeed. Join us in our shared goal of keeping America moving and ensuring customer satisfaction in an environment where your contributions are valued, and your growth is encouraged. Apply now and become a part of our exciting journey!

The Director of Train Operations serves as the senior national leader responsible for the strategic direction, delivery, and growth of RailPros' Train Operations line of service. This role oversees service planning, operational readiness, regulatory compliance, and nationwide client engagements across freight, commuter, and passenger rail. The Director will collaborate closely with Strategic Consulting to integrate operational strategies with business development and advisory services, driving revenue growth, operational excellence, and safety.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

Strategic & Operational Leadership

• Provide national leadership and technical oversight of Train Operations services, ensuring operational readiness, capacity planning, and high-quality execution.
• Lead efforts in service planning, operational efficiency, continuous improvement, and regulatory compliance.
• Drive strategic initiatives supporting operational excellence, safety, and customer satisfaction.
• Represent RailPros at industry conferences, committees, and associations, contributing thought leadership in rail operations.
• Contribute to a positive, inclusive, and respectful workplace culture, free from behaviors that undermine morale, productivity, or organizational values.
• Uphold the organization’s standards of integrity, accountability, and respect in all duties and interactions.
• Adhere to all company policies, procedures, and applicable laws and regulations.
• Perform additional tasks as required to meet business needs.

Client & Project Management

• Oversee major engagements across freight and passenger rail, including readiness for service expansions, terminal capacity analysis, and

crew/resource planning.

• Build and maintain strong client relationships with Class I railroads, commuter rail agencies, transit authorities, and freight operators.
• Partner with Strategic Consulting to support business development and integrated advisory solutions.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Guide coordination between engineering, field services, and training divisions to deliver comprehensive operational solutions.
• Ensure operational integration with multi-disciplinary teams across multiple regions.

Leadership & People Development

• Lead, mentor, and grow a nationwide team of operational leads, managers, and specialists.
• Oversee hiring, training, performance management, and succession planning.
• Establish KPIs that support excellence, accountability, and a culture of innovation and safety.
• Promote a positive, inclusive, and respectful workplace culture.
• Uphold RailPros’ standards of integrity, accountability, and respect in all interactions.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

• Deep expertise in train operations across freight, commuter, and intermodal networks.

• Proven leadership of large-scale operational readiness, service planning, and scheduling initiatives.

• Strong capabilities in capacity planning, resource allocation, and operational optimization.

• Advanced analytical and modeling skills (simulation, capacity analysis).

• Exceptional communication, presentation, and negotiation abilities.

• Demonstrated ability to lead multi-disciplinary, multi-regional teams.

• Strong client management and stakeholder engagement experience.

• Ability to present complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.

• High proficiency in organizational skills and standard office technologies.

Discretion in handling sensitive and confidential information.

Required Education &

Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Transportation, Logistics, Operations Research, or related field.
• 12+ years of progressive experience in rail operations across freight, commuter, and passenger domains.
• Proven success leading national or multi-regional operational teams.
• Experience delivering operational readiness for major rail programs (e.g., service expansions, high-speed rail).
• Experience managing P&L or program budgets.
• Strong industry network with Class I railroads, transit agencies, and freight operators.

Preferred Education & Experience

• Master’s degree in Operations Research, Engineering, Transportation, or Business.

• Experience leading operations in both freight and passenger environments.

• Experience working with federal, state, and local agencies (FRA, FTA, DOT).

Additional

Qualifications, Certifications, etc.:

• Project Management Professional (PMP®).

• FRA/OSHA safety and regulatory certifications.

• Experience with simulation and scheduling tools (RTC, Intelligent Rail Scheduler).

• Recognized industry leadership (committees, speaking engagements).

Work Environment

Primarily office-based work supporting planning, reporting, and business development activities.

Physical Demands

• Frequent sitting, typing, and communication.

• Ability to multitask in a dynamic environment.

• Occasional walking, turning, and extended periods of computer use.

Travel

• Routine travel to client sites, RailPros offices, and project locations.

• Expected travel: 30%–40% depending on project cycle.

Why RailPros:

• Innovative Projects Work on cutting-edge projects that shape the future of the railroad industry.
• Professional Growth Enjoy opportunities for career advancement, ongoing training, and professional development
• Collaborative Culture Be part of a supportive team where collaboration and creativity are encouraged.
• Competitive Benefits Benefit from comprehensive health insurance, retirement plans, and other perks designed to support your well-being.
• I ndustry Leadership Join a leading firm with a reputation for excellence and a commitment to industry best practices
• Work-Life Balance Experience a flexible work environment that values your personal time and promotes balance
• Impactful Work Contribute to projects that have a significant impact on safety, efficiency, and sustainability in the railroad industry.

Benefits & Perks:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Includes medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Additional Coverage Plans: Accident plan, critical illness plan, and hospital indemnity with employee-to-family coverage.
• Legal ID, Shield ID, Pet Insurance.
• Life & Disability Insurance: Employer-paid with additional voluntary options available.
• Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with employer match.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Generous paid time off.
• Wellness Programs: Access to various wellness initiatives and resources.
• Discount Programs: Exclusive discounts on products and services.
• Company Merchandise Allowance: Company-funded allowance for our online store
• Health Savings Accounts (HSA): With employer match
• Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA): Employer-funded.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): For dependent care expenses.
• Employee Assistance Programs (EAP): Support for personal and professional challenges.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for training and career growth
• Work-Life Balance: Initiatives designed to support a balanced and fulfilling work life.

Join RailPros for a fulfilling career in a thriving and stable industry. Our core values drive us to excel as a team, prioritize customer satisfaction, and adapt to industry changes swiftly. Be part of a passionate and dedicated team that values continuous improvement, trust, and problem-solving. Apply now for an opportunity to contribute to our success.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO):

RailPros provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified candidates, regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic. We are committed to making reasonable accommodations for known physical or mental limitations of qualified employees and applicants with disabilities unless such accommodations would impose undue hardship on our business operations. If you are considering applying for a job and require a reasonable accommodation in accordance with the ADA, please reach out to us at peopleoperations@railpros.com We value diversity and strive to create an inclusive environment for all employees.

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