Dear Readers
We would like to thank all of our Readers, Clients and Candidates for their continued support during year and we wish you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the Team at Rail Personnel.
And it's a bumper week for Jobs of the Week this week.
In Manila, Philippines we are looking for a Testing and Commissioning Consultant / Manager and in Singapore we are looking for a Head of Engineering for Signalling System Design (ASEAN). In Australia, we are looking for a Rail Infrastructure Supervisor to work in Tasmania and in Perth, we are looking for a Rail Design Engineer. And in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, we are looking for an Architectural Expert.
Best Regards
Rail Personnel
Rail News
16 December 2025. Australia. New Sydney Metro station makes ‘world’s most beautiful’ list
Sydney’s new metro station, Gadigal Station, has been named by the Prix Versailles as one of the World’s Most Beautiful Passenger Stations for 2025. The prestigious global design awards commended the station’s innovative architecture, sustainable design and seamless functionality, describing it as the “epitome of absolute modernity”. The architectural design was led by Foster + Partners, in collaboration with COX Architecture, whose work shaped the station’s award-winning identity.
Source: Infrastructure Magazine
The California High-Speed Rail Authority has issued an invitation to bid on a construction contract for the retrofitting and restoration of the Fresno Depot. The successful party would also be responsible for utility relocations and connections, demolition, ADA improvement, park/plaza space development, multimodal parking and EV charging at the future station downtown H and G Street entrances.
Source: Railway News
16 December 2025. Switzerland. SBB selects Hitachi Rail for €1.5bn digital network upgrade
Hitachi Rail has entered into a framework agreement with Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) to provide digital signalling technology across the Swiss rail network. The initiative forms part of SBB’s wider programme, which is valued at approximately €1.5bn ($1.76bn). The digital signalling project, expected to replace about 80% of existing interlocking systems over the next 20 years, will see Hitachi Rail deliver digital interlockings and radio block centres.
Source Railway Technology
15 December 2025. Canada. Ottawa–Montreal Confirmed as First Section of Alto High-Speed Rail Project
The federal government has confirmed that the Ottawa–Montreal corridor will be the first section to be developed as part of Canada’s planned Alto high-speed rail network. The announcement was made in Gatineau on 12 December 2025 by the Minister of Transport, Steven MacKinnon, alongside Alto’s President and Chief Executive, Martin Imbleau. The Ottawa–Montreal segment will cover a distance of approximately 200 kilometres and will cross the provincial boundary between Ontario and Quebec.
Source: Railway News
15 December 2025. France. SNCF Réseau selects Vossloh for rail milling contract in France
SNCF Réseau, a French state-owned railway infrastructure manager, has selected German rail technology company Vossloh for a two-year contract to carry out milling work on the rail network in France. The contract, which was awarded through a tendering process, has an option to extend for up to three more years. This project, commencing in 2026, involves machining an average of 200km of track annually and is considered one of the most substantial rail maintenance contracts Vossloh has secured in France.
Source: Railway Technology
11 December 2025. Australia. $9M investment powers up rail innovation
ABB Traction Australia has launched its Traction Centre of Excellence, marking a milestone in innovation for Australia’s rail industry and sustainable mobility sector. The new 5,000 square metre facility, in Maryborough, Queensland, represents a $9 million investment from the Queensland Government. The centre will serve as a strategic hub for manufacturing traction converters, motors, and Mobile e-Power solutions for projects like the Queensland Train Manufacturing Program (QTMP) in preparation for the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games, as well as for other regional initiatives.
Source: Infrastructure Magazine
Jobs of the Week
Testing & Commissioning Consultant / Manager, Manila, Philippines
Job ID#: 15269
Discipline: Test and Commissioning
Language: English
Job Description:
Our client is seeking a Testing & Commissioning Consultant Manager to support their activities on the Metro Manila Subway Project (MMSP) Phase 1, (Valenzuela to Paranaque).
Looking to mobilize in Q1 2026
Phase 1: Testing & Commissioning Consultant
1. Develop the overall Testing & Commissioning (T&C) strategy, master plan, and associated documentation/templates.
2. Establish frameworks, processes, and readiness criteria to guide testing and commissioning activities across all systems.
3. Review pre-test documentation, test procedures, and test reports to confirm readiness and compliance.
Phase 2: Testing & Commissioning Manager
1. Manage and oversee static and dynamic testing programs for CP106 and CP107.
2. Chair system-wide Go/No-Go gate reviews on behalf of the E&M and Rolling Stock Project Manager.
3. Lead investigations into failed or non-conforming tests, ensuring corrective and preventive measures are implemented.
4. Verify that all tests are traceable to project design and safety requirements.
5. Ensure validation of all interface requirements during T&C, in coordination with the System Integration Manager.
6. Supervise and, where required, witness contractor site tests in collaboration with the Systems Integration & Testing (SIT) Team.
7. Direct and support trial operations, acceptance testing, and handover activities in collaboration with DOTr staff and other stakeholders.
Job Requirements:
Must have relevant experience in Testing and Commissioning.
Contact: David Hyland (davidh@railpersonnel.com)
Head of Engineering for Signalling System Design (ASEAN), Singapore
Job ID#: 15127
Discipline: Signalling
Language: English
Job Description:
Our client supplies the global markets of rail and road-bound transport with innovative products and solutions for Rail Automation, Rail Electrification and in the area of intermodal mobility, apps and backend systems.
They are looking for an experienced signalling engineer to take on the role of Head of Engineering for Signalling System Design (ASEAN) in Singapore.
Responsibilities
* Taking the lead as Technical Authority for ATC(Automatic Train Control), ATS(Automatic Train Supervision), Radio, IXL(Interlocking), Signalling Trackside Units including GoA4 applications internally and towards customer.
* Ensuring with your team successful implementation and operation for on-going projects in Singapore and ASEAN region by taking hands on actions on site when necessary.
* Taking the lead for necessary Engineering Statements required by projects.
* Managing and Developing Engineering resources and staffing to support on-going projects and new opportunities aiming a self-functioning Engineering Center.
* Establishing and maintaining expertise in all Signalling areas, ensuring proper development process is in place.
* Establishing an ownership culture to have a sustainable department.
* Drive continuous improvement by identifying challenges, analysing root causes, and distributing lessons learnt to the members of the team.
* Creating the Key Performance Targets of the Engineering Department with close collaboration with other department leaders.
* Actively advocate Siemens technology and solutions in the market to improve chances of winning tendered work.
Job Requirements:
To qualify for this role you need
* Bachelor Degree in Electrical / Mechanical / Electronics or equivalent fields
* Minimum 15 years of professional experience in signalling rail domain, with deep expertise in signalling technical design and solutions
* Proven track record in managing and developing engineering teams, with experience leading teams disciplinary and functionally
* Proven ability to work with cross-functional teams and manage staff and contractor requirements professionally.
* Experience working with customers and colleagues from diverse cultural environments
* Experience of software development methodologies and structured approaches to system development
* Ability to clarify complicated technical concerns to non-technical individuals
* Expertise in software, hardware, systems engineering and IT security aspects
The role reports directly to the Head of Operations. You will oversee a team of approximately 30 engineers, covering signalling disciplines including ATC, ATS, IXL, Radio, and Trackside Systems.
Contact: David Hyland (davidh@railpersonnel.com)
Rail Infrastructure Supervisor, Tasmania, Australia
Job ID#: 15284
Discipline: Railway Track
Position Type: Permanent
Language: Macedonian
Job Description:
We are seeking a hands-on Infrastructure Supervisor to join the rail division in Tasmania.
Reporting to the Infrastructure Asset Manager, you'll oversee day-to-day track and infrastructure maintenance across the network, including track, turnouts, bridges, and culverts, to ensure the continued safe and reliable operation of our railway. This is a key leadership role that combines technical expertise with team mentorship and planning responsibilities.
You will need to supervise, mentor, and coordinate the infrastructure maintenance team.
- Plan and implement daily and ongoing work programs.
- Carry out and oversee maintenance and repair works across infrastructure assets.
- Maintain accurate infrastructure maintenance records.
- Identify and manage hazards within the rail corridor.
- Oversee stores, spares, and equipment for maintenance activities.
- Liaise with external contractors and provide operational support as required.
- Be available for occasional callouts or after-hours work to support operation
Job Requirements:
- Applicants should be confident team leader and have worked in the rail sector for a minimum 5 years in a supervisory role.
- A background in both rail, construction, or civil environments is required.
- Strong communication, planning, and problem-solving skills.
- Must have proven ability to interpret engineering drawings and reports.
- Be able to drive - Class C driver's licence and ideally Medium rigid driver's licence/ and or Forklift, dogging.
- Experience operating an excavator and/or RRV is advantageous.
- Ability to meet Category 2 rail medical and zero drug and alcohol policy requirements.
Desirable: Certificate III in Rail Infrastructure.
Contact: Jackie Hendry (jackie@railpersonnel.com)
Architectural Expert, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Job ID#: 15295
Discipline: Architecture
Language: English
Job Description:
Our client is seeking an Architectural Expert to be responsible for developing and managing the client's Architectural Requirements and providing expertise and advise to the PMC/the Engineer and contractors during the delivery of the company's Structures (Stations, depots, Administration Buildings), in order to ensure a smooth workflow is maintained in line with the scope of work and established standards and protocols.
Accountability Areas:
- Develop the company's Architectural Requirements Specification for Stations, Depots, Administration Buildings and architectural signature for main Infrastructures Viaducts, Bridges,….., and ensure that these meet the functional and performance railway criteria agreed upon with the corresponding business units,
- Prepare Architectural conceptual design drawings, procurement documents, packages, proposal evaluations, technical reports, and detailed analyses,
- Review, comment and approve technical submissions related to Architectural works (Specifications, Drawings, Reports, Material tests, ….),
- Participate in the tendering process by playing an active role in reviewing enclosed technical documentation and contributing in the technical evaluation of bidders, to recommend the best-suited bidder to be awarded the contract, in accordance with the client's scope of work,
- Ensures that Architectural works execution and delivery by the PMC/the Engineer and contractors alike complies with applicable regulatory requirements, standards, codes and specifications and in accordance to the Engineering and Construction plans, set budget, timelines and scope of work respectively.
- Provide advice and recommendations on HSE Aspects related to Architectural works
- Identify and define constraints related to Architectural design and works at early stage, establish the work scope, prepare the budget and schedule, plan the work, provide technical direction, and report the work status.
Job Requirements:
- Degree in Architectural Engineering or a related field.
- A minimum of 12 years of Relevant Experience.
Preferred:
- Project management certificate
- Trained in Railway Architectural Functionality, with eventual Certificate
Contact: Jackie Hendry (jackie@railpersonnel.com)
Rail Design Engineer, Perth, Australia
Job ID#: 15300
Discipline: Permanent Way
Language: English
Job Description:
Our client in Perth is seeking a Rail Design Engineer to contribute to the development of concepts and ideas for major improvements, primarily for the suburban rail system in Perth and for passenger rail systems beyond the metropolitan area, principally in relation to railway permanent way design and planning.
Core duties and responsibilities
* Provides high level technical input in the development of concepts and ideas for major improvements, primarily for the suburban rail system in Perth and for passenger rail systems beyond the metropolitan area as required.
* Prepares permanent way designs including earthworks and drainage.
* Prepares alignment and profile designs for railway routes.
* Reviews and updates permanent way design, standards and codes of practice.
* Develops contract documentation (including procurement planning, tender documentation and evaluation, contract formation) and contract management plans in consultation and negotiates with stakeholders.
* Responsible for the effective management and leadership of project teams which may include managing multiple work groups and fostering positive team values and a cooperative team.
* Develops, monitors and ensures compliance with required regulations, standards, codes, corporate policies and procedures, including Railway Safety Management and standards.
* Prepares scope of work and technical criteria documentation for contract purposes.
Job Requirements:
* Possession of Degree in Civil Engineering that is acceptable for membership of Engineers Australia.
* Relevant engineering experience in a railway environment, including sound experience in permanent way design.
* Sound understanding of permanent way design and experience applying Australian design standards and codes in producing the permanent way designs.
* Relevant project management experience, including the ability to prepare reliable estimates and project schedules, and to scope, plan and implement successful projects.
Contact: Renee Wade (renee@railpersonnel.com)
