Deputy Director of Transit and Rail - Operations
US-TX-Dallas
GFT
Req #: 12967
Type: Full-Time
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Responsibilities: GFT is seeking a Deputy Director, Transit and Rail - Operations to join our Transit & Rail Practice in any of our GFT locations! This role follows a hybrid work model, requiring regular attendancein the office. Working with the public transit team at GFT means shaping the future of transportation, delivering projects that improve mobility, safety, and accessibility for millions of passengers nationwide. Specializing in rail systems, bus rapid transit, and zero-emission mobility solutions, our experts combine deep technical knowledge with innovative thinking to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of transit networks. Together, we're transforming urban landscapes, reducing environmental impact, and connecting communities through state-of-the-art public transportation infrastructure. Explore some of our signature public transit projects here. What you'll be challenged to do: In this role, you will focus on advancing operational excellence, client delivery, and strategic growth across major transit operations, maintenance, and systems programs. The Deputy Director will provide executive-level leadership and technical guidance on projects involving bus rapid transit (BRT), light rail, commuter rail, and multimodal corridor operations. This position plays a key role in driving operational readiness, safety, and performance-based outcomes for clients nationwide - while mentoring internal teams and advancing GFT's reputation as a trusted partner to agencies and operators. In this capacity, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following: Operational Leadership & Client Delivery * Lead GFT's operational consulting portfolio, including service delivery analysis, operations planning, strategic planning and growth and quality management. * Serve as a senior advisor to transit agencies on operational readiness for new or expanded BRT, LRT, and commuter rail corridors. * Work with our T&R team in developing and implementing performance metrics and staffing strategies aligned with delivering our project portfolio. * Ensure operational integration across planning, design, and startup phases - connecting GFT's engineering and systems expertise with real-world operating needs. Program & Project Oversight * Oversee multidisciplinary project teams delivering transit and rail operations support, ensuring quality, compliance, and schedule performance. * Act as Deputy Project Manager or Principal-in-Charge on key pursuits and contracts. * Provide QA/QC review of deliverables, ensuring adherence to GFT's ISO-aligned Quality Management System. * Support project risk management, change control, and contract compliance activities. Strategic Growth & Market Development * Support the Transit & Rail Director in executing GFT's North American growth plan, with an emphasis on Transit and Rail Clients. * Identify and pursue new opportunities with transit agencies, DOTs, and rail operators. * Develop winning proposal strategies, scope frameworks, and pricing approaches for operations-related pursuits. * Represent GFT in industry forums, panels, and conferences (e.g., APTA, TRB, Mpact, WTS). Team Leadership & Mentoring * Mentor and develop technical and operational staff across GFT's regional offices. * Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability. * Contribute to internal knowledge-sharing and operational best-practice frameworks. Qualifications: What you will bring to our firm: * Bachelor's degree in Transportation, Civil Engineering, Urban Planning, Public Administration, or related discipline. * Minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in transit or rail operations management, planning, or consulting. * Demonstrated success leading complex, multi-agency operational initiatives or service startups. * Strong understanding of FTA/FRA regulations, safety management systems (SMS), and O&M practices. * Proven client relationship skills with the ability to communicate effectively at executive and technical levels. What we prefer you bring: * Bachelor's degree in a related field. * PMP, PE, AICP or equivalent professional certification. * Experience with Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), LRT, or commuter rail service activation and system testing. * Prior experience with NEPA-to-Operations transitions, FTA Small Starts/Capital Investment Grant projects, or value engineering. * Experience leading teams within a consulting or design-build environment. Featured Benefits: * Hybrid (in-person and remote) work environment. * Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in addition to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance. * Tax-deferred 401(k) savings plan. * Competitive paid-time-off (PTO) accrual. * Tuition reimbursement for continued education. * Commitment to professional development, access to internal and external training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations * Incentive compensation for eligible positions.
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