Instrumentation Engineer

Overview:

Under the general supervision of the Manager of On-Track Instrumentation & Calibration, the Instrumentation Engineer provides technical and analytical support for projects sponsored by stakeholders and commercial clients of MxV Rail. This role involves applying standardized data collection methodologies in both field and laboratory test environments, ensuring all work meets rigorous safety and quality standards. The engineer is expected to contribute to a culture of teamwork, mutual respect, and continuous improvement within the Engineering department and across MxV Rail’s broader operations.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities:

• Gains proficiency in operating, maintaining, and repairing instrumentation equipment, sensors, transducers, and basic survey/GPS telemetry systems.
• Applies best practices for calibration, troubleshooting, and preventive maintenance.
• Participates in designing and assembling data collection hardware under the guidance of experienced engineers.
• Collects, organizes, and ensures the integrity of test data according to project standards.
• Assists in reviewing and interpreting data to identify trends, anomalies, and areas for further investigation.
• Provides technical support to the instrumentation group and contributes to cross-functional testing efforts.
• Collaborates with mechanical, electrical, and software teams to integrate instrumentation into test applications.
• Independently reports project status, issues, and opportunities to the project management team and leadership through regular updates.
• Demonstrates professionalism, technical curiosity, and a continuous growth mindset.
• Seeks feedback and guidance from experienced peers and mentors to accelerate technical growth.
• Engages proactively in both internal and external training sessions, knowledge-sharing meetings, and hands-on workshops.
• Adheres to safety protocols and regulatory standards during instrumentation setup, testing, and maintenance.
• Applies on-track test requirements and standards for perturbation maintenance measurements, rail/wheel profiles, and track geometry measurements.
• Supports internal and external project portfolios with oversight from experienced teammates.
• Assists in estimating time, materials, and constraints for assigned instrumentation tasks.
• Maintains organized, audit-efficient records and documentation.
• Functions as a resource for the instrumentation group, participating in group discussions and sharing individual feedback and perspectives.
• Ensure that all duties and responsibilities are performed safely.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Required Skills & Abilities:

• Open to learning and living the MxV Rail values (Momentum, Insight, Teamwork, Rigor, Purpose) in all facets of the organization's work.
• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical or electrical engineering, or a closely related field such as aerospace, civil, or mechatronics.
• Demonstrate hands-on experience in troubleshooting, problem-solving, or analytical engineering work, evidenced by university coursework projects, laboratory experiments, internships, co-op assignments, or work-related experience.
• Current, unrestricted Colorado Class R driver’s license and ability to operate company vehicles safely.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) for data analysis, report writing, and presentations.
• Must gain proficiency in one specialty skill area within one year of employment.
  • Data Collection Systems
  • Static Measurements
• MxV Rail policy requires all prospective employees to complete a criminal background check (Disclosure for Consumer Reports Consent Form) and a pre-employment substance abuse screening (Applicant Consent for Drug Testing Form) as a condition of employment.

Preferred Qualifications:

Exposure to One or More of the Following Areas:

• Data Acquisition Hardware and Software Systems: LabVIEW®, NUCARS MultiVu®, DEWESoft®, GMH DataBrick®, Hi-Techniques Aspire®, Gantner®, and Envision®.
• Instrumentation and Electrical Systems: Transducers, strain gauges, signal conditioning, PLCs, cabling, connectors, control panels, photovoltaic charge and power systems.
• Field Testing: Testing methods, test design, transducer/data collection selection, test execution, data analysis techniques, and reporting.
• Design & Data Analysis: Computer-based analysis, computer-aided design, and computer-based modeling.
• Survey Applications: General survey theory, survey/GNSS equipment, related software, and the ability to operate it in a field setting.
• Instrumentation Maintenance: Design, troubleshooting, repair, installation, and maintenance of instrumentation, mechanical, hydraulic, or electrical equipment used in railway or other applications.
• Safety & Rail Operations: Knowledge and practice of energy safety, forklift operation, and safety protocols. Familiarity with train operations, railroad signaling, and train control systems.

Working Environment and Level of Physical Activity:

The conditions herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

• Environment: Office and field environments. Must be able to walk in an industrial and/or railroad environment, including uneven surfaces such as ballasted track and field terrains. Assignments include on-site work at the location of MxV Rail or off-site field locations.
• Vision: See in the normal visual range with or without correction; vision sufficient to read computer screens and printed documents.
• Hearing: Hear in the normal audio range with or without correction.
• Travel: Travel is required up to 35% of the time, depending on workload/program location(s).
• Physical: Able to lift moderate to heavy (50 pounds) equipment as required. Bending, kneeling, climbing, and working at raised elevations.
• Location: The role is based at the MxV Rail Operations & Training Center. It supports work across the organization, including the Keeler Laboratories, revenue-service test sites, and other field locations as required. The position serves as a technical resource for projects at these locations.

Benefits Overview:

• Health, Dental, Life, and Vision Insurance
• Railroad Retirement
• 401(k) Program with Company Match
• AAR Pension Plan
• Life Insurance (life, accident, or disability insurance)
• Paid Holidays, Vacation, and Sick Time
• Incentive Compensation Program
• Fortnight Schedule
• Employee Assistance Program
• Flexible Spending Account
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Wellness Program

Salary Range: $67,096 - $69,780 DOQ