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Rail News

30th November 2023. Volume 11 Issue 5

8 months ago by Rail Personnel

​Dear Readers,

It’s a bumper week for Jobs of the Week this week.

We are looking for:

-        Asset Management Expert, Saudi Arabia

-        Project Planning & Controls Expert, Dubai, UAE

-        Infrastructure Expert, Dubai, UAE

-        Systems Expert, Dubai, UAE

-        Electrical Manager, Taiwan (must be fluent in Mandarin

Best Regards,

Rail Personnel

Rail News

27 November 2023. United Kingdom. Innovative Siemens Mobility mobile rail charging facility to be demonstrated at Long Marston

New technology developed by Siemens Mobility that makes battery charging and 25kV power supply possible in areas of the UK railway where overhead line equipment is not currently available is to be installed at Porterbrook’s Long Marston Rail Innovation Centre. Siemens Mobility’s Rail Charging Converter (RCC) has been supported by the Department for Transport through Innovate UK’s First-of a-Kind programmatic is a mobile rail charging facility that can go anywhere and boost weak electricity networks to deliver the 25kV supply needed for battery traction.

Source: Rail UK

25 November 2023. Australia. Australian Railway Research & Innovation Network launched

The Australian Railway Research & Innovation Network has been launched to identify and deliver critical research and innovation supporting the National Rail Manufacturing Plan. AusRRIN includes Monash University’s Institute of Railway Technology, Central Queensland University, University of Queensland, University of Wollongong, and the University of Technology Sydney, as well as the Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator, Rail Industry Safety & Standards Board, Australasian Railway Association, Rail Track Association Australia and the Institution of Railway Signal Engineers.

Source: Railway Gazette

24 November 2023. Egypt. Thales to provide signalling and security systems for the Alexandria metro

The company continues its longstanding relationship with Egypt’s National Authority for Tunnels with the contract. French manufacturer Thales will provide various technological solutions to the new metro system in Alexandria, Egypt after signing a €1.3bn ($1.42bn) contract with the Colas Rail and Orascom joint venture. Signaling and centralized control will both be delivered by Thales. The ambitious program from Egypt’s National Authority for Tunnels (NAT) is turning the region’s existing Aboukir suburban railway line into an upgraded, modern metro network to ease traffic congestion in the city and reduce emissions by encouraging the modal shift to rail.

Source: Railway Technology

24 November 2023. Germany. New Mireo electric train unveiled by Siemens Mobility

Siemens Mobility has unveiled its newest innovation, the Mireo Smart electric train, at its manufacturing facility in Krefeld, Germany. Designed specifically for regional and commuter rail operations, this existing Mireo train electric variant aligns with the growing demand for sustainable transportation solutions. "The Mireo Smart is a direct response to the evolving transportation landscape and the increasing preference for rail travel," stated Albrecht Neumann, chief executive officer of rolling stock at Siemens Mobility.

Source: Rail Technology Magazine

23 November 2023. India. Knorr-Bremse Equips Metro Trains for Bhopal and Indore

Knorr-Bremse has been contracted by Alstom to equip 52 new Movia metro trains for Madhya Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MPMRCL) with braking and air conditioning systems. These trains will operate on the upcoming metro lines in Bhopal and Indore, India, which are currently under construction. This order for Knorr-Bremse has a value in the low double-digit million EUR range. It includes the outfit of brakes and air conditioning on 52 Alstom Movia trains, totaling 156 cars.

Source: Railway-News

​Job of the Week

 Asset Management Expert, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Job ID#: 14824

Discipline: Asset Management

Position Type: Contract

Language: English

Duration: 1 year

Job Description:

For this project, we are seeking an Asset Maintenance Manager for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia:

The Asset Maintenance Manager is a key role in a railway project responsible for overseeing the maintenance and management of all assets associated with the railway infrastructure. This includes tracks, bridges, signaling systems, rolling stock, stations, and other critical components. The primary objective of the Asset Maintenance Manager is to ensure the efficient and safe operation of the railway system by implementing effective maintenance strategies and ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.

Responsibilities are to:

* Develop and implement a comprehensive maintenance strategy for all railway assets, considering factors such as asset lifecycle, safety requirements, budget constraints, and regulatory compliance.

* Lead and supervise a team of maintenance technicians, engineers, and support staff. Provide guidance, training, and support to ensure the team's performance meets the required standards.

* Establish and monitor preventive maintenance schedules to ensure regular inspections and servicing of assets, reducing the risk of unexpected failures and downtime.

* Respond to and coordinate the resolution of asset-related issues, breakdowns, and emergencies promptly to minimize disruptions to railway operations.

* Collaborate with project stakeholders to allocate resources effectively, including budget planning for maintenance activities, equipment, and workforce requirements.

* Ensure all maintenance activities adhere to safety regulations and industry standards to promote a safe working environment for staff and passengers.

* Implement a system to monitor and evaluate asset performance, collect data on asset condition and reliability, and use this information to make data-driven decisions for continuous improvement.

* Collaborate with suppliers and contractors to obtain necessary spare parts, equipment, and maintenance services, ensuring they meet quality standards and contractual obligations.

* Identify potential risks to asset integrity and develop mitigation plans to minimize risks and their impact on railway operations.

* Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities, asset performance, and compliance reports. Prepare regular reports for senior management and relevant stakeholders.

* Stay updated with the latest railway industry regulations, standards, and best practices to ensure the project's compliance.

Job Requirements:

Skills for the role include:

* Knowledge of railway systems, infrastructure, and associated assets.

* Familiarity with railway maintenance standards, regulations, and safety protocols.

* Strong leadership and team management skills.

* Excellent problem-solving abilities and decision-making skills.

* Effective communication and interpersonal skills for collaborating with diverse stakeholders.

* Budgeting and resource management expertise.

* Ability to work under pressure and manage time effectively in a fast-paced railway environment.

* 20 years of working Experience

* English fluently, Arabic would be an advantage

* User skills in MS Office programs incl. MS Project

* Ideally someone who has an excellent understanding of depot facilities.

* Background in both signalling and rolling stock would be advantageous

* Must be under 55

Contact: David Hyland (davidh@railpersonnel.com)

Project Planning & Controls Expert, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Job ID#: 14823

Discipline: Planner

Position Type: Contract

Language:

Job Description:

Our client is the major independent government roads & transportation authority in Dubai and has asked us to find an experienced Planner to manage the planning of the design and construction of all works for the Blue Line for the Dubai Metro network.

The project is expected to cost several billion dollars to develop and is one of Dubai's largest upcoming infrastructure schemes, requiring international contractors to work in a joint venture with local partners.

The design and build contractor will be responsible for all civil works, electromechanical works, rolling stock, and rail systems. The contractor will assist in maintenance and operations for an initial three-year period after the project is completed.

The Blue line will connect the existing red and green lines. It will have a total length of 30 kilometers (km), 15.5km of which will be underground and 14.5km above the ground. The line will have 14 stations, seven of which will be elevated. There will be five underground stations, including one interchange station, and two elevated transfer stations connected to the existing Centrepoint and Creek stations. The scope of the contract also includes the supply of 28 driverless trains, the construction of a depot to accommodate up to 60 trains, and the construction of all associated roads, facilities, and utility diversion works.

The detailed scope of work for the project includes:

* Civil works, including detailed design and construction of architectural and structural components (viaducts, tunnels, stations, etc.)

* Design and execution of electromechanical works

* Design, procurement, and delivery of operation and control systems for rail, stations, and facilities

* Design, manufacturing, and supply of rolling stock

Looking at a 2-year contract.

Job Purpose:

* Oversights and provides guidance to schedulers assigned to Rail Projects.

* Supports Develop Design, Construction, and Operator schedules through PMO Reviews.

* Estimate time element of change of orders made by Rail Projects.

* Support claims evaluations and make recommendations.

* Ability to comment on critical milestones for the construction stage for inclusion in tender documents through detailed discussions with the Rail Project Team, and evaluation of interfaces between buildings/infrastructure.

* Actively seek out fast-track design and construct opportunities together with the Program Management Teams.

* Review/approve consultant's and contractor's schedules in support of Rail Projects.

* Advise Rail Project Team consultants and contractors in the development of their schedules.

* Monitor and oversight the actual progress of the work versus the planned work. Monitor contractual production rates and compare them with Rail Project Plans.

* Review milestones for inclusion in Requests for Proposals and tender documents through detailed discussions with the Program Management Teams and define interfaces between buildings/Infrastructure and Construction/Operations.

* Support the preparation of technical Proposals and Tender evaluations by the Project and Contracts Team.

Job Requirements:

* M.Sc. in Civil Engineering or Mechanical Engineering

* An experienced civil engineer with over 15 years of solid global rail experience with multinational and multicultural construction organizations across a wide range of major rail projects. Specialist in fields of rail construction, planning (P6), interface and project controls management, and claims control, from commencement through to handover and operations.

* Expertise:

o Rail Planning and Programming

o Multi-party Coordination

o Project Management

o Civil Engineering, Building and MEP

o Project Co-ordination & Environmental Management

o Presentations and business development

* Excellent knowledge of different aspects of railway engineering that interface with operations control. This includes power distribution systems, environmental systems, signalling, telecommunications, rolling stock, permanent ways, civil, structure, and building services. Working knowledge of effective and efficient fault recovery and facilities management strategy.

* Highly analytical thinking with demonstrated talent for identifying, scrutinizing, improving, and streamlining complex work processes.

* Computer-literate performer with extensive software proficiency covering a wide variety of applications including P6, Microsoft Project, and other Project Management Tools.

* Exceptional listener and communicator who effectively conveys information verbally and in writing.

* Resourceful team player who excels at building trusting relationships with customers and colleagues.

* Flexible team player who thrives in environments requiring the ability to prioritize and juggle multiple concurrent projects effectively.

* Innovative problem-solver who can generate workable solutions and resolve complaints.

Contact: David Hyland (davidh@railpersonnel.com)

Infrastructure Expert, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Job ID#: 14822

Discipline: Civil

Position Type: Contract

Language:

Duration: 2 years

Job Description:

Our client is the major independent government roads & transportation authority in Dubai and has asked us to find an experienced civil engineer to manage the sign and construction of the civil and track works for the Blue Line for the Dubai Metro network.

The project is expected to cost several billion dollars to develop and is one of Dubai's largest upcoming infrastructure schemes, requiring international contractors to work in a joint venture with local partners. The design and build contractor will be responsible for all civil works, electromechanical works, rolling stock, and rail systems. The contractor will assist in maintenance and operations for an initial three-year period after the project is completed.

The Blue line will connect the existing red and green lines. It will have a total length of 30 kilometers (km), 15.5km of which will be underground and 14.5km above ground. The line will have 14 stations, seven of which will be elevated. There will be five underground stations, including one interchange station, and two elevated transfer stations connected to the existing Centrepoint and Creek stations. The scope of the contract also includes the supply of 28 driverless trains, the construction of a depot to accommodate up to 60 trains, and the construction of all associated roads, facilities, and utility diversion works.

The detailed scope of work for the project includes:

* Civil works, including detailed design and construction of architectural and structural components (viaducts, tunnels, stations, etc.)

* Design and execution of electromechanical works

* Design, procurement, and delivery of operation and control systems for rail, stations, and facilities

* Design, manufacturing, and supply of rolling stock

Looking at a 2-year contract.

Job Purpose: Responsible for the project management oversight of Rail Projects, including design, construction, and operations. Provide the necessary supporting role to the Head of the PMO in the execution of all his / her duties in order to ensure timely continuity of the PMO's role in overall Rail Projects Portfolio Management roles.

Key Results Accountabilities:

* Lead and manage the application of value engineering when required to be performed by the PMO on Rail Projects.

* Support the management of the Rail Construction Projects, led by the Rail Project Planning and Development Department (RPPDD) with domain-specific information, knowledge, and lessons learned.

* Monitor the project design, construction, and coordination of 3rd Parties issues related to Rail Projects.

* Review and advise on the Project Program to verify that the Contractor / Engineer implements approved plans and procedures, and reports on progress against predetermined time, cost, quality, specifications, and service standards.

* Propose negotiation mitigation strategies to overcome problems related to Rail Projects.

* Provide recommendations on all aspects of the commercial, technical, programming, quality, safety, health & environment and contract administration efforts associated with Rail Projects to the respective Project Team.

Job Requirements:

* Bachelor's degree in civil engineering from a recognized university.

* Goal-driven Expert who maintains a productive climate and confidently motivates, mobilizes, and coaches employees to meet high-performance standards.

* Results-driven achiever with exemplary planning and organizational skills, along with a high degree of detail orientation

* Flexible team player who thrives in environments requiring the ability to prioritize and juggle multiple concurrent projects effectively.

* Exceptional listener and communicator who effectively conveys information verbally and in writing.

* Computer-literate performer with extensive software proficiency covering a wide variety of applications

* Innovative problem-solver who can generate workable solutions and resolve complaints.

* 15 years of relevant working experience in rail industry, construction & project management.

* Familiar with required contractual obligations, procurement, safety, site development review, and technical aspects.

* Resourceful team player who excels at building trusting relationships with customers and colleagues.

* Ability to Manage Megaprojects and construction site management.

* Experience in variety of contracts specially Design & Built, & Knowledge of FIDIC Yellow Book

* Extensive experience in project management, cost control, financial management, Metro Planning & Operations, and well-developed administrative skills.

* Professional user & knowledge of management software (MS Project, MS Office), AutoCAD Micro Station & BIM (Building Information Management) is required.

* Highly analytical thinking with demonstrated talent for identifying, scrutinizing, improving, and streamlining complex work processes.

* Strong knowledge of PM tools is essential in addition to project management professional certification (IPMA PMI - PRINCE II.), or equivalent experience.

Contact: David Hyland (davidh@railpersonnel.com)

Systems Expert, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Job ID#: 14821

Discipline: Signalling

Position Type: Contract

Language: English, Arabic

Duration: 2 years

Job Description:

Our client is the major independent government roads & transportation authority in Dubai and has asked us to find an experienced Systems Engineer to manage the design and construction of the systems works for the Blue Line for the Dubai Metro network.

The project is expected to cost several billion dollars to develop and is one of Dubai's largest upcoming infrastructure schemes, requiring international contractors to work in a joint venture with local partners. The design and build contractor will be responsible for all civil works, electromechanical works, rolling stock, and rail systems. The contractor will assist in maintenance and operations for an initial three-year period after the project is completed.

The Blue line will connect the existing red and green lines. It will have a total length of 30 kilometers (km), 15.5km of which will be underground and 14.5km above the ground. The line will have 14 stations, seven of which will be elevated. There will be five underground stations, including one interchange station, and two elevated transfer stations connected to the existing Centrepoint and Creek stations. The scope of the contract also includes the supply of 28 driverless trains, the construction of a depot to accommodate up to 60 trains, and the construction of all associated roads, facilities, and utility diversion works.

The detailed scope of work for the project includes:

* Civil works, including detailed design and construction of architectural and structural components (viaducts, tunnels, stations, etc)

* Design and execution of electromechanical works

* Design, procurement, and delivery of operation and control systems for rail, stations, and facilities

* Design, manufacturing, and supply of rolling stock

Looking at a 2-year contract.

Job Purpose: Responsible for the Project Management Oversight of Rail System Design and Construction in Rail Projects. Support in the planning, development, and execution of Rail Projects by realizing the Rail Agency functions and objectives & ensuring the best international standards and practices used for the betterment of Rail Projects.

Key Results Accountabilities:

* Input to the preparation of Rail Project budget reports and associated financial reports from the perspective of Rail Systems.

* Lead for the PMO in the application of value engineering for Rail Systems of Rail Projects.

* Analyze and share Rail System information and knowledge including lessons learned.

* Perform other responsibilities associated with the position as directed by the Head of PMO / Rail Agency CEO.

* Advise that proposed Rail System designs of Rail Projects conform to the client's requirements and standards.

* Support the RPPDD with rail system-related issues during the post-contract stage to ensure compliance to system design basis and/or changes agreed upon by all concerned parties and properly documented.

* Provide guidance and expert advice to the RPPD Rail System team in carrying out their overall duties and responsibilities.

Job Requirements:

* Masters in electrical/ mechanical / systems Engineering from a recognized University.

* Goal-driven leader who maintains a productive climate and confidently motivates, mobilizes, and coaches employees to meet high-performance standards.

* Results-driven achiever with exemplary planning and organizational skills, along with a high degree of detail orientation.

* Flexible team player who thrives in environments requiring the ability to prioritize and juggle multiple concurrent projects effectively.

* Innovative problem-solver who can generate workable solutions and resolve complaints.

* 15 years of experience in Rail Systems Engineering

* Exceptional listener and communicator who effectively conveys information verbally and in writing.

* Highly analytical thinking with demonstrated talent for identifying, scrutinizing, improving, and streamlining complex work processes.

* Resourceful team player who excels at building trusting relationships with customers and colleagues.

* Computer-literate performer with extensive software proficiency covering a wide variety of applications

Contact: David Hyland (davidh@railpersonnel.com)

Electrical Manager, Hsinchu, Taiwan

Job ID#: 14809

Discipline: Electrical

Language: Mandarin, English

Job Description:

Our client is seeking an Electrical Manager (Hsinchu).

This is not an expat position and candidates must be fluent in Mandarin.

Work Content:

* Lead all aspects of Design related to the project internally and externally, lead and supervise all relevant communication, lead all aspects of the project that are related to the design and engineering; set and supervise the technical standards for the project in concordance with the project scope of work and in alignment with the Project Manager.

* Provide direct project-related supervision to Project Discipline Leads, Space Manager, and Project CAD Coordinator. Attend overall project coordination meetings.

* Manage the project design setup and follow up according to the project start-up checklists and Design Management Checklists and the project Scope of Works to manage the Project Deliverable Plan.

* Submit to the Project Manager for approval and report the current status regularly to the Project Manager and Regional Engineering Manager. Provide monthly reports for the project design and input to the monthly project report.

* Review project scope, the design deliverables, and the related design organization regularly. Manage the project design manpower planning in collaboration with the Project Manager and highlight gaps or inefficiencies in manpower and/or qualification to the Management.

* Establish and maintain the Project Engineering Execution Plan (EEP) and related project procedures, Communicate and implement EEP to the project team, and conduct training as required

* Establish, submit for approval, and keep up-to-date the Project Design Criteria or Basis of Design (BOD) based on the project's understanding of the Design Scope and Change Management Process. Lead all design-related Change Control. Maintain the Project Design Issues List.

Job Requirements

* Degree in Engineering

* Master's degree in engineering (preferable)

* Professional Engineer preferred

* Diploma holders with an additional 2 - 3 years' experience unless equated with professional certifications

* 12 - 15 years of professional-related experience with 5 years in a leadership capacity

* Worked in Taiwan and fully aware of the Taiwan local Authority Laws and Regulations

* At least 10 years of Design experience in a high-tech industry or other multiple discipline-oriented construction business

* At least five years of experience in a leading position in a fast-track project

* At least five years of experience in managing staff, coaching/mentoring, and developing people

* Experience in implementing change strategies internally

* Experience in strategic and operational planning and implementation

* Experience in project management

* Experience in other country codes

Contact: Patricia Hsiao (patricia@railpersonnel.com)