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Job Title


Traction Power and Overhead Contact Systems (TPS/OCS) Practice Leader


Company : HDR


Location : Toronto, Ontario


Created : 2026-01-15


Job Type : Full Time


Job Description

Traction Power and Overhead Contact Systems (TPS/OCS) Practice Leader Join to apply for the Traction Power and Overhead Contact Systems (TPS/OCS) Practice Leader role at HDR At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world? Watch Our Story: and every role throughout our organization makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but around the world. Position Description: The primary duties for the Traction Power and Overhead Contact Systems (TPS/OCS) Practice Leader involve technical leadership for rail systems projects pertaining to traction electrification and overhead contact systems (OCS) and other distribution systems. The role includes technical leadership, design management and production, leading specific design packages, coordinating the assembly of plans and specifications, and providing construction support. This position supports various rail and transit projects throughout North America to serve the contract requirements and respond to client needs. The successful candidate will have experience in developing technical specifications, criteria and drawings for AC and DC traction power systems and interfaces to train control, communications, rolling stock, operations control centers, and other rail systems elements. The candidate will be proactive in leading tasks between technical groups and innovative in solving complex challenges. Responsibilities Project work includes electrification distribution design for Streetcar, Electrified Bus, Light Rail, Heavy Rail, Commuter Rail and High Speed Rail Projects operating on Overhead Contact or Third Rail Systems. Design work includes OCS design, sectionalizing, equipment sizing and protection, SCADA and control center interface, system feeders and returns, traction power distribution systems, bonding and grounding. Mentoring and development of staff in traction power and OCS design practices. Project management: client coordination, scoping, fee preparation, scheduling, budget tracking, and delivery of work products. Project pursuits, client development, opportunity tracking and proposal work. Work location includes both Home Office and shortterm travel to cities installing or planning to install Electrified Transit Systems. Longterm field assignments may also be available. Skills and Additional Attributes Technically competent with recognized rail specialization that resolves problems of significant scope and complexity. Industry standing in technical committees in the electrification field and established relationships with rail and transit clients throughout North America. Experience designing AC and DC traction power and distribution systems for trolley, streetcar, light rail, metro rail, commuter and highspeed rail systems. Plan, organize, and coordinate tasks and assignments for a group of professionals and technicians across multiple projects. Past experience leading teams and having direct client interface and complete project lifecycle (design, installation, testing and commissioning). Experience as a group leader or Department Head for TPS/OCS work for an agency and consultant is desirable. Preferred Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field (Civil Engineering or Mechanical Engineering) Advanced degree preferred. PE license required. 15+ years experience in railway electrification systems. Industry standing and involvement in AREMA, APTA, IEEE Technical committees. Solid experience with electrification systems for intercity, commuter, heavy rail, light rail, street car and electrified bus operations. AC/DC traction electrification, overhead contact and distribution system design and implementation required. Experience with CADD tools and ability to complete designs individually. Excellent organizational and communication skills. Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Engineering. 10 years related experience. Minimum 5 years project management experience. Professional engineering license recognized by the licensing board for the location of the position offered. MS Office and MS Project experience (Access experience would be plus). Demonstrated leadership, business development and strategic planning skills. Commitment to being an active participant of our employeeowned culture. Benefits HDR provides a comprehensive benefits package that promotes employee ownership, employee health, performance, and success. The expected compensation range for this position depends on skills, experience, education and geographical location. (See details with placeholders). #J-18808-Ljbffr