Senior Engineering Technician – Signals & Communications

The Senior Engineering Technician, Signals & Communications (S&C) is a specialist technical role responsible for advanced maintenance, diagnostics, fault analysis, and performance optimization of signaling and communications systems across the Eglinton Crosstown LRT (ECLRT) corridor. The incumbent’s deep technical knowledge of CBTC architecture and OEM signaling systems is central to the effectiveness of this role. This role operates in a 24/7 safety-critical environment and demands a blend of rigorous electronic engineering knowledge, rail industry experience, and the professional discipline required to work on systems where failure has direct safety consequences. Responsibilities • Lead the technical diagnosis and resolution of complex or recurring faults in ECLRT signaling and communications systems, including the Alstom CITYFLO 650 CBTC platform, interlockings, train detection systems, wayside equipment, and associated OT infrastructure. • Perform advanced electrical, electronic, and software-level testing and analysis of S&C systems; interpret diagnostic outputs, event logs, and system data to identify failure modes and determine root cause. • Execute scheduled preventative maintenance, inspections, and testing of all S&C systems and equipment in accordance with CTSM maintenance procedures, OEM specifications, and applicable regulatory standards. • Apply in-depth working knowledge of the Alstom CITYFLO 650 CBTC system — including Zone Controllers (ZC), Automatic Train Protection (ATP), Automatic Train Operation (ATO), Wayside Interface Units (WIU), and associated communications architecture — to support maintenance, fault resolution, and system performance activities. • Draw on familiarity with signaling systems and platforms from other major OEMs (Alstom, Hitachi, Siemens) to support cross-system analysis, benchmarking, and knowledge transfer within the S&C team. • Interface with (Alstom) technical support and field service teams as required for escalated fault resolution, software updates, or system modifications; represent CTSM’s maintenance interests in technical discussions with OEM representatives. • Support the evaluation, testing, and acceptance of software updates, firmware changes, or hardware modifications to CBTC and associated S&C systems, in coordination with the S&C Manager and relevant engineering stakeholders. • Monitor CBTC system performance data and diagnostics outputs on an ongoing basis; identify trends, anomalies, or leading indicators of system degradation and communicate findings proactively to the S&C Manager. • Lead or support formal root cause analysis (RCA) for significant S&C failures, service-affecting incidents, and recurring defects; prepare clear written technical reports with findings and recommend corrective or preventative actions. • Analyze signal failure patterns and maintenance history data to identify systemic issues and recommend improvements to maintenance procedures, inspection intervals, or equipment configurations. • Support the S&C Manager in the development and revision of maintenance procedures, technical instructions, and safe work documentation informed by field experience and OEM guidance. • Contribute technical input to the continuous improvement of CMMS work order content, preventative maintenance task lists, and S&C documentation standards. • Provide on-the-job technical coaching, guidance, and knowledge transfer to junior S&C Engineering Technicians, supporting their development in CBTC system operation, fault diagnosis, and safe work practices. • Assist the S&C Manager in identifying training needs and development priorities for the S&C technical team. • Support testing and commissioning activities for new, modified, or relocated S&C infrastructure, including CBTC wayside equipment, communications systems, and interlocking modifications. • Work collaboratively alongside other CTSM maintenance groups — including OCS/TPSS, Track, and Building Services & Systems Technology (BSST) — to coordinate maintenance and commissioning activities. • Maintain ongoing communication with TTC or Metrolinx representatives to report progress, coordinate access, and manage operational impacts of S&C maintenance activities. • Operate on-track and highway vehicles as required, in accordance with CTSM and regulatory requirements. • Ensure accurate, thorough, and timely documentation of all maintenance activities, diagnostic findings, test results, RCA outputs, and corrective actions within the CMMS and applicable CTSM record systems. • Read and interpret complex engineering drawings, schematic diagrams, wiring diagrams, relay logic diagrams, and OEM technical documentation relevant to CBTC and S&C systems. • Prepare technical reports, defect summaries, and operational briefings for the S&C Manager as required. • Perform additional duties as assigned by the Manager, Signals & Communications. Qualifications • Degree or diploma in Electronics Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, or a related discipline. A four-year engineering degree (B.Eng. or B.A.Sc.) in Electronics or Electrical Engineering is preferred; C.Tech. or C.E.T. designation through OACETT, or eligibility for same, is an asset. • Minimum of 3 to 5 years of progressive experience in railway signaling, electronics engineering, or a closely related technical field, with demonstrated expertise in at least one major OEM signaling platform. • Direct hands-on experience with the Alstom CITYFLO 650 CBTC system is highly preferred. Candidates with equivalent depth of experience on Alstom Urbalis, Hitachi, or Siemens Trainguard CBTC platforms will be given strong consideration. • Solid understanding of CBTC architecture and principles, including ATP/ATO functionality, Zone Controller logic, wayside-to-vehicle communications, and system failure modes. • Comprehensive knowledge of railway signalling principles including interlocking logic, train detection (track circuits, axle counters), signal heads and aspects, and fail-safe design philosophy. • Proficiency in reading and interpreting complex electrical and electronic engineering drawings, schematic diagrams, relay logic, and OEM technical documentation. • Demonstrated capability in advanced fault diagnosis and root cause analysis for complex electronic and electromechanical systems. • In-depth knowledge of the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA), Transport Canada railway safety regulations, and applicable standards including CSA Z462 (Workplace Electrical Safety). • Demonstrated safety-minded work ethic with thorough knowledge of safe work practices in a safety-critical, track-adjacent rail environment. • Strong verbal and written communication skills; ability to prepare clear technical reports and communicate complex technical concepts to both specialist and non-specialist audiences. • Proficiency with CMMS software, Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook), and diagnostic or data analysis tools relevant to CBTC system monitoring. • Ability to climb ladders and work safely at elevated heights; Working at Heights certification required or to be obtained within 90 days of appointment. • Valid non-probationary Class “G” Province of Ontario Driver’s Licence (or higher) in good standing, with a clean driver’s abstract.

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