Rail Equipment Optimization Lead - Heavy Specialized
WFA Digital Insight
As demand for efficient logistics solutions grows, companies like GE Vernova are seeking experts to optimize rail equipment. With the rail industry projected to see significant investment in the coming years, professionals with experience in asset management and heavy haul operations are in high demand. This role stands out for its focus on specialized equipment and the opportunity to work with a leading company in the field. Before applying, candidates should be aware of the complexities of rail equipment optimization and the importance of ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
Job Description
About the Role
The Rail Equipment Optimization Lead is a critical role at GE Vernova, responsible for ensuring the efficient and safe transport of heavy, oversized, and project cargo across the North American rail network. This involves managing a fleet of specialized rail equipment, including multi-axle rail cars and heavy-duty flatcars. The successful candidate will have a deep understanding of rail equipment engineering, asset management, and operational planning, as well as commercial negotiation skills to maximize equipment availability and reduce costs.Day-to-day, the Rail Equipment Optimization Lead will work closely with internal stakeholders, including operations, maintenance crews, and contractors, to ensure that equipment is properly utilized and maintained. This will involve developing and implementing equipment strategy and lifecycle management plans, as well as managing relationships with vendors and contractors.
The role is part of a larger team focused on logistics and transportation, and the successful candidate will have opportunities to collaborate with colleagues across the organization to drive business results.
What You Will Do
- Define strategy for specialized assets, including replacement and refurbishment plans
- Manage asset utilization and deployment, including pooling, allocation, and rotation rules
- Coordinate capacity with Class I and shortline railroads, including securing train paths, siding access, and terminal slots
- Support route surveys, permitting, and temporary works for nonstandard moves
- Implement preventive and predictive maintenance programs, including condition monitoring and inspection schedules
- Maintain load charts, securement standards, and certification records to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements
- Manage relationships with manufacturers, lessors, maintenance providers, and repair shops
- Negotiate service agreements, warranties, and spare parts contracts with vendors
- Track key performance indicators, including utilization, availability, and maintenance costs
What We Are Looking For
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Railway Engineering, Logistics, or a related field
- Minimum 8 years of experience in rail equipment engineering, heavy haul operations, or asset management
- Experience moving generators and gas turbines preferred
- Technical knowledge of railcar design, load securement, axle load distribution, and dynamic behavior under heavy loads
- Familiarity with FRA guidance and relevant parts of 49 CFR applicable to railroad operating practices and safety
- Commercial experience negotiating with carriers, equipment lessors, and maintenance vendors
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyze complex data sets and develop creative solutions
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with internal and external stakeholders
Nice to Have
- Direct experience with multi-axle rail cars and heavy-duty fleets
- Proven track record moving generators and gas turbines across U.S. rail routes
- Background in reliability engineering, predictive maintenance, or condition-based monitoring
- Experience with permitting and route surveys for oversized/overweight moves
- Understanding of AAR Open Top Loading Rules
Benefits and Perks
- Competitive compensation and benefits package
- Opportunities for professional development and growth within the company
- Flexible and remote work arrangements
- Access to cutting-edge technology and equipment
- Collaborative and dynamic work environment
- Recognition and reward for outstanding performance
- Comprehensive health insurance and wellness programs
- Generous PTO and holiday schedule
How to Stand Out
- Be prepared to provide specific examples of your experience with rail equipment optimization and asset management.
- Highlight your analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as your ability to work effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
- Familiarize yourself with the company's values and mission, and be prepared to discuss how your skills and experience align with these.
- Consider creating a portfolio or case studies that demonstrate your expertise in rail equipment optimization and asset management.
- Be prepared to negotiate your salary and benefits package, and do not be afraid to ask about opportunities for professional development and growth within the company.
- Research the company's culture and values, and be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to these as a remote employee.
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