Transit & Rail Technology Lead

GFT is seeking a Transit & Rail Technology Lead to drive the strategic integration, technical delivery, and growth of technology solutions across high-capacity transit systems including BRT, LRT, Commuter Rail, Streetcar, and High-Speed Rail. This position serves as the division’s subject matter authority for transit systems and technology integration — bridging planning, engineering, operations, and digital transformation.

In this capacity, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and implement a Technology Strategy aligned with the Transit & Rail division growth plan.
• Identify emerging technologies that enhance client value and system performance.
• Advise executive leadership on technology positioning in major pursuits and megaprojects.
• Support alternative delivery models with integrated systems strategies.

Technical Delivery & Systems Integration

• Lead planning, design, and implementation of communications, ITS, fare systems, CCTV, SCADA, signaling, and OCC technologies.
• Oversee systems interface management across civil, rail, facilities, and vehicle contracts.
• Establish configuration management, cybersecurity, and systems assurance frameworks.
• Support FTA compliance and operational readiness reviews.

Business Development & Market Expansion

• Lead the technology component of proposals and interviews.
• Identify cross-selling opportunities across GFT sectors.
• Build partnerships with OEMs, integrators, and technology providers.
• Support expansion into new markets and major infrastructure programs.

Team Leadership & Mentorship

• Build and lead a national transit technology practice.
• Mentor project managers and discipline leads on systems coordination.
• Establish QA/QC standards and design review processes.
• Coordinate with Alternative Delivery and Project Controls teams to manage risk and cost.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Annual technology-related backlog growth target achievement.
• Technology scope capture rate in major pursuits.
• On-time and on-budget systems delivery metrics.
• Reduction in interface-related change orders.
• Successful FTA/operational readiness certifications.
• Development and retention of internal technology SMEs.

At GFT, a privately held AEC firm, we innovate where transportation, water, power, and buildings converge. We call this the Infrastructure of Life. We measure our success by the strength of our relationships – that’s why we’re the employer of choice for 5,000+ of the industry’s brightest engineers, planners, architects, inspectors, designers, and more.

Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our nimble approach, creativity, and personal touch. Backed by over a century’s experience, together we’re building a lasting legacy for future generations: stronger communities, a healthier planet, and better lives.

GFT: Ingenuity That Shapes Lives™ is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veterans’ status or other characteristics protected by law.

Unsolicited resumes from third party agencies will be considered the property GFT.

GFT does require the successful completion of a criminal background check for all advertised positions. 

Location: West Region
Core Business Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Employment Status: Full-Time

Salary Range:$180,000 - $250,000

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Applicants in the County of Los Angeles- Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.

Applicants in the City of San Francisco- Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Applicants in the State of California-Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the California Fair Chance Act.