Project Designer (1006) - Communications
At a glance
Mid-level Communications role at Septa. Philadelphia · up to $90,688 base.
growthroles summary, based on the employer's posting.
What you'll do
- Develop communications and network designs, then review plans before field teams or contractors install them
- Configure routers, switches, DNS, DHCP and other network equipment, and improve existing network performance
- Oversee network construction, inspect work in progress and address unusual equipment behavior
- Prepare project specifications, RFPs and proof-of-concept plans for Wi-Fi, cellular and other communications systems
- Coordinate site walks and review contractors’ construction drawings, specifications and designs
What you bring
- A high school diploma plus eleven years of relevant communications or signals experience, or an accepted education-and-experience equivalent
- The ability to design and troubleshoot communications and signal systems down to individual components
- Knowledge of FRA regulations, AAR standards and AREMA standards or recommended practices
- Experience configuring and monitoring railway communications networks, managing projects, and using Microsoft Office
- A valid driver’s license and authorization to work in the United States without employer sponsorship
Who this fits
This role suits an experienced communications or network engineering professional who can handle design, troubleshooting and project work. Transit or railroad communications experience is preferred. You must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.
From the employer
Secure Your Future with SEPTA – A Leader in Transportation!
The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) is the sixth-largest transportation system in the U.S., connecting communities across a 2,200-square-mile service region. SEPTA is at the forefront of innovation in the transit industry, ensuring reliable and efficient services while driving economic growth in the Philadelphia region.
Only candidates who are authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship, will be accepted at this time.
We are proud to be recognized as:
2023 FORBES Best in State Employer
Philadelphia Employer of Choice for 2024
We are seeking to hire candidates for our Project Designer (1006) - Communications position.
Opening Date: 10/02/2026
Closing Date: 10/25/2026
Job Grade: SAM 38
Starting Salary: Up to $90,688.00
Additional $5,000 salary increase for having a Pennsylvania PE License.
OVERALL DESCRIPTION
This position is responsible for undertaking network engineering assignments that are of "moderate complexity" in size and scope. This position is further responsible to provide technical support and direction for engineering activities including the definition and coordination for design review and implementation, establishing inspection plans, program/project development and consulting, statistical methods, audits, and continuous improvement approaches to ensure activities are consistent with SEPTA mission values and goals.
SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES
- Provides, communications and network engineering analysis, design reviews and approve communications designs for installation by field forces and or third parties. Provide conceptual, preliminary and final designs.
- Designs and implements new network solutions and/or improve the efficiency of current networks. Installs, configures and supporting network equipment including routers, proxy servers, switches, WAN accelerators, DNS and DHCP. Procure network equipment and manage subcontractors involved with network installation.
- Reviews, monitors and oversees communications and network construction work in progress and take necessary action to correct unusual communications and network equipment operations and recommend standard preventative maintenance procedures.
- Conducts preliminary engineering site walks with various parties, and review and approve third party communications and network construction drawings and specifications.
- Familiarity with, and ability to troubleshoot to the component level various types of communications and network systems and devices.
- Generates and coordinates design plans and specifications for in-house and 3rd party forces.
- Generates written memoranda, technical reports, audits, etc. in professional, effective manner. Reviews and approval of drawings and specifications.
- Writes specifications and Request for Proposals and review designs for all communications and network devices and systems including preparing proof of concept for all new wireless network devices, Wi-Fi, Cellular and other systems.
- Provides, promotes, and enforces safe working conditions in accordance with accepted safety practices and procedures.
- Complies with all Authority and departmental safety and security policies and procedures as well as all applicable job safety responsibilities. Reports any safety concerns, compromises or hazards affecting operations, the public, self and/or other employees. Responsible for personal safety and is encouraged to promote the safety of others.
- Performs other duties as assigned
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
- High School graduate and eleven (11) years relevant experience in communications/signals required.
- An equivalent combination of education and experience (two years of related experience equating to one (1) year of formal post high school education) may be considered in lieu of the above requirements.
- Familiarity with, and ability to design and troubleshoot to the component level various types of signal and communications systems and devices required.
- Understanding of FRA regulations, AAR Standards, AREMA standards and recommended practices required.
- Demonstrated computer skills in configuration and monitoring of railway communication networks.
- Experience in developing and managing projects required.
- Excellent written and verbal communications skills, including Microsoft Office Suite required.
- Valid driver’s license required.
- Progressively responsible relevant work experience in communications in transit or railroad environment preferred.
- Experience with radio communications systems, cyber security implementation and network monitoring preferred.
Why Join Our Team? Enjoy Outstanding Benefits!
✅ Comprehensive Healthcare Coverage – Medical, prescription, dental, and vision plans with little to no employee premiums.
✅ Retirement Security – Participate in a Defined Benefit Pension Plan and a 457B Deferred Compensation Plan to build your financial future.
✅ Work-Life Balance – Enjoy paid parental leave, generous vacation time, and paid holidays to recharge and spend time with loved ones.
✅ Employee Wellness – Access wellness programs and resources to support your physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
✅ Invest in Your Growth – We offer tuition reimbursement to support your education and career advancement.
✅ Student Loan Assistance – Our positions qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, helping you manage and reduce student debt.
✅ Free Travel Perks – Receive a FREE SEPTA Transportation Pass, giving you unlimited access to all SEPTA services!
Join us and take advantage of these incredible benefits while making a difference in your community!
Join the Best in Transit! Apply Today
📢 Click Apply Now and take the next step in your career with SEPTA!
📍 Have Questions? For more information, please visit How We Hire Careers Page.
🚆 SEPTA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
SEPTA is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.
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