Dear Readers
David Hyland and Jackie Hendry recently attended AusRAIL 2024 at Gold Coast, Queensland and they had this to say about this event.
"AusRAIL is always a great networking opportunity and it was an excellent opportunity to catch up with both candidates and new and existing clients".
Other highlights for AusRAIL 2024 include:
• This year was the first time we have held 14 concurrent sessions over two days with more than 20 topics. We have received great feedback about the new format and hope that you had the opportunity to take part in some of the informative talks.
• The second day of presentations at AusRAIL 2024 had a fantastic lineup of industry and government leaders, including Carolyn Walsh, Chair of the National Transport Commission (NTC), Queensland Rail CEO Kat Stapleton, ARTC CEO Wayne Johnson and Cross River Rail Delivery Authority CEO Graeme Newton.
• We had an incredible 1400 people come to wind down after a day on the stands and in conference sessions for the AusRAIL 2024 Exhibition Networking Drinks, which brought together delegates, exhibitors, and industry professionals.
• The sold-out Yellow Dinner, sponsored by Headline Partner, Alstom, was a spectacular way to end our most successful AusRAIL to date, with more than 1000 people coming along for the final networking event.
• It was a significant night for the ARA team as we farewelled our much-loved Chair Danny Broad and welcomed our new Chair Lucio di Bartolomeo. ARA CEO Caroline Wilkie gave a heart-warming speech in which she spoke about the pivotal role Danny played in the organisation’s growth and her appreciation of his support and guidance over the years.
And it's a bumper week for Job of the Week this week. In Perth, Western Australia we are looking for a Senior Professional Electrical Engineer and in India, we are looking for a Chief Track Construction Manager to work on the MAHSR project in Surat.
Also, in India we are looking for Head – Design (Electrical), Head - Design (Signalling and Telecom) and Head - Design (Civil).
Best Regards
Rail Personnel
Rail News
3 December 2024. Australia. Milestone for Western Sydney Airport metro line
The Sydney Metro – Western Sydney Airport project has hit a major milestone, with the completion of more than 3.2km of elevated viaducts. The three elevated viaducts, stretching between Orchard Hills and Luddenham, are a key part of the new 23km metro line, designed to transform travel across Sydney’s greater west. They take the metro line over key locations, including the Warragamba pipelines, Blaxland Creek and Luddenham Road.
Source: Infrastructure Magazine
Engineers have started assembling two massive tunnelling machines that will excavate the last 4.5 miles of the underground high-speed railway, bringing HS2 trains directly into central London. Each tunnel boring machine (TBM) weighs an astonishing 1,250 tonnes and will be launched from an underground box at Old Oak Common station. The TBMs are expected to take approximately 18 months to reach the railway's final southern terminus at London Euston.
Source: Rail Technology Magazine
3 December 2024. Taiwan. Taiwan high speed rail depot expansion contract
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries has been awarded a contract to design, supply and install trackwork, overhead electrification, power supplies and signalling for an expansion of Taiwan High Speed Rail Corp’s Zuoying depot. Annual ridership on the high speed line has increased from around 15 million passengers in the opening year of 2007 to nearly 73 million in 2023, when THSRC awarded a consortium of Hitachi and Toshiba a NT$28bn contract to supply 12 Series N700S 12-car trainsets to augment its Series 700T sets.
Source: Railway Gazette
3 December 2024. India. Chennai metro places ‘landmark’ driverless train order
Metro Rail Ltd has awarded BEML a contract to supply and maintain 70 three-car trainsets for GoA4 unattended automatic operation. They will be used on Corridor 3 from Madhavaram to Sipcot (45·8 km), Corridor 4 from Lighthouse to Poonamallee (26·1 km) and Corridor 5 from Madhavaram to Sholinganallur (47 km). The order confirmed in November 28 is worth Rs36·6bn, including staff training and 15 years of maintenance, and is being funded by Japan International Co-operation Agency.
Source: Metro Report International
3 December 2024. China. Macau opens Hengqin Line
Macau Light Rail Transit’s Hengqin Line opened on December 2, its second new line in a month. The 2·2 km shuttle links Macau with Hengqin in Zhuhai in mainland China, where there is interchange with the Zhuhai Airport Intercity Railway. Trains run every 6 min with a 2 min journey time. Like the Seac Pai Van Line opened on November 1, the Hengqin Line was built by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries with Top Builders Macau and Hou Chun Construction & Engineering Co. Work began in March 2021 at a cost of 3·46 bn patacas.
Source: Metro Report International
2 December 2024. Australia. Metro Tunnel enters new phase
The Victorian Government is powering ahead with works on the West Gate Tunnel and Metro Tunnel which are both set to open next year. The Metro Tunnel has entered a new phase known as trial operations, as it prepares to take passengers in 2025. For the first time, station staff, operators, maintenance workers and drivers will practice a wide range of scenarios so that the project is ready to open.
Source: Infrastructure Magazine
2 December 2024. Greece. Hitachi Rail Delivers Greece’s First Driverless Metro
Hitachi Rail has launched Greece’s first driverless metro system, introducing advanced technology in Thessaloniki. In its first phase, the metro covers a 9.6-kilometre route with 13 stations and is projected to significantly reduce road traffic and carbon emissions. Future extensions include a 4.8-kilometre addition with five extra stations, ultimately linking the city centre to the airport.
Source: Railway News
2 December 2024. Hongkong. MTR and HKUST’s smart traffic research wins at HK’s ICT Awards 2024
The AI and big data project by MTR and HKUST has won several Hong Kong ICT Awards 2024. A collaborative research initiative between the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) and railway operator MTR has been recognized with multiple accolades at the Hong Kong ICT [information and communication technology] Awards (HKIST) 2024. The project, which harnesses AI and big data to improve smart traffic management, received the Smart Mobility (Smart Transport) Gold Award, the Best Use of AI Award, the Smart Mobility Grand Award, and the Award of the Year.
Source: Railway Technology
30 November 2024. Saudi Arabia. Riyadh Metro to Commence Service in Saudi Arabia
Alstom has celebrated the launch of the Riyadh Metro network in Saudi Arabia. This project aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, aiming to enhance urban mobility, reduce congestion, and improve air quality in the capital city. The 176-kilometre network, developed by the Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC), comprises six lines, 85 stations, and seven depots, and is expected to serve up to 3.6 million daily passengers upon full operation.
Source: Railway News
The partnership will leverage advanced technologies like condition monitoring and generative AI to improve train reliability. SBS Transit, in collaboration with RATP Dev, has secured the contract to operate and maintain Singapore’s new Jurong Region Line (JRL). The Land Transport Authority (LTA) awarded the nine-year licence, with an option for a two-year extension, to the partnership named Singapore One Rail (SOR). The service fee quoted by the partnership to operate the line for 11 years is $750m.
Source: Railway Technology
Jobs of the Week
Chief Track Construction Manager, Surat, India
Job ID#: 14974
Discipline: Permanent Way
Language: English
Job Description:
Our client is seeking a Chief Track Construction Manager for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail project. The track structure primarily involves the J-Slab track system, used in Japan and Taiwan.
Project: Project Management Consultancy Services for Track, Rolling Stock, Depot, Inspection & Maintenance cars and Training Simulator Packages for Mumbai Ahmadabad High Speed Rail Project (PMC-TRS)
Position: Chief Track Construction Manager
Duration: April 2025 - April 2029 (48 months)
Work Location: Surat Head Office, India
Overview of Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Railway:
India's first bullet train project, the Mumbai-Ahmedabad
High-Speed Rail Railway, will span 508 km, connecting Maharashtra and Gujarat with a speed of 320 km/h. Starting from Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) in Mumbai, the train will stop at 10 cities, including Surat, Vadodara, and Ahmedabad, completing the journey in just 2 hours 7 minutes with limited stops.
The project employs the J-Slab ballastless track system based on Japanese Shinkansen technology, marking its first use in India. Mechanized construction uses advanced machinery designed to Japanese standards, such as Rail Feeder Cars and Flash Butt Welding Machines. JICC as General Consultant has provided the detailed design and drawing of major HSR track components like RC Track Bed, Track slab arrangement etc. for the contract.
Work on track construction has already commenced in Gujarat under package T-2 & T-3. Both the track works contracts in Gujarat are awarded to Indian companies. Technical bids for
T-1 are scheduled to be opened on 03rd February 2025.
Key Responsibilities:
- Oversee project management consultancy for track construction.
- Review and approve construction or design documents and drawings submitted by the contractor.
- Provide the Engineer's response to construction plans and programs and issue notices to the contractor as needed.
- Participate in and verify factory acceptance tests, first article inspections, and installation tests, providing instructions to the contractor based on findings.
- Ensure consistency in track construction across the track packages.
Job Requirements
- Total experience of 13 years or more or
- Minimum 2 years of experience with Shinkansen/High-Speed Rail in relevant field (experience with Japanese or Taiwanese Shinkansen is preferable)
Contact: Rajni Tewani (rajni@railpersonnel.com)
Senior Professional Electrical Engineer, Perth, Australia
Job ID#: 14956
Discipline: Electrical
Language: English
Job Description:
Our client is an engineering consultancy and they are looking for a Senior Professional Electrical Engineer.
This position can be based in Perth or Melbourne.
As a senior professional electrical engineer, and a senior member of the team, you will conduct technical reporting and analysis tasks, on-site testing and commissioning activities along with project management and client interfacing. Your engineering and project experience will be key to assist the client to deliver the following as part of collaborative team against relevant Australian and International standards:
- Earthing system design, analysis and compliance assessments.
- Lightning protection system design, analysis and compliance assessments.
- Low frequency interference studies.
- Protection grading studies and HV power system load flow investigations and analysis.
- Knowledge of Australian standards relating to high voltage and electrical installations.
- Prepare and review quality deliverables consistent with client expectations
- Manage projects and work packages to achieve quality, budgetary and programme expectations
- Assist the management team with business development and maintaining client relationships
- Assist and mentor less experienced team members
Job Requirements
- Bachelor of Electrical Engineering Degree (or higher)
- Holds Australian Citizenship or Permanent Residency
- Current drivers licence
- Minimum five to ten two years (post graduation) experience within high voltage design and commissioning fields
Contact: Renee Wade (renee@railpersonnel.com)
Head - Design (Electrical), Faridabad, India
Job ID#: 14969
Discipline: Electrical
Language: English
Job Description:
Our client is one of pioneer Indian entity in Construction of Transportation Infrastructure business. The vertical spearheads the infrastructure segment comprising building and upgrading of Roads, Runways, Elevated Corridors and Railways which are the lifelines of any nation.
This vertical undertakes engineering and construction projects through its strategic business units, meeting international standards of quality, safety and timely delivery. EPC, item rate and lump sum turnkey services are offered for transportation infrastructure projects in India and abroad.
They are seeking Head - Design (Electrical) to lead the design and development of E&M systems for railway infrastructure projects, ensuring safety, efficiency, and reliability.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and manage E&M design team for railway Business.
- Develop and implement design strategies, standards, and guidelines as per RDSO specifications / Metro Rail Corporations and other design consultants of clients.
- Provide support with design and quantities during pre-bid activities, Risk review with BU and create mitigation plans.
- Ensure compliance with railway regulations, safety standards, and industry norms.
- Oversee design development, prototyping, testing, and validation.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams for project execution adhering to quality and safety standards.
- Training & Development: Develop training modules for imparting knowledge among staff members.
- Manage design budgets, resources, and timelines.
- Conduct site visits and inspections to ensure design alignment with project requirements.
- Develop and maintain relationships with clients, stakeholders, and industry partners.
- Implement quality process in design as per relevant standards
- Carryout benchmarking for various design activities
- Stay updated on industry trends, technologies, and best practices.
Job Requirements
Qualification:
- Bachelor's & Master's degree in Electrical Engineering.
- 20+ years of experience in railway design, construction & operations.
- At least 10 years of experience in a similar position
- Proven leadership experience in managing design teams.
- Expertise in at least 2 railway design software (AutoCAD, ETAP, EMTP & CDEGS).
- Strong knowledge of RDSO standards.
- Excellent communication, project management, and problem-solving skills.
- Familiarity with safety management systems (ISO 45001).
Desirable Skills:
- Experience with BIM (Building Information Modelling)
- Awareness of civil, signalling, electrification, and telecommunications systems.
- Familiarity with international railway standards and regulations.
- Experience with design automation tools and simulation software.
- Business acumen and understanding of commercial aspects.
- Strong industry network.
Contact: Rajni Tewani (rajni@railpersonnel.com)
Head - Design (Signalling and Telecom), Faridabad, India
Job ID#: 14968
Discipline:Signalling
Language: English
Job Description:
Our client is one of pioneer Indian entity in Construction of Transportation Infrastructure business. The vertical spearheads the infrastructure segment comprising building and upgrading of Roads, Runways, Elevated Corridors and Railways which are the lifelines of any nation.
This vertical undertakes engineering and construction projects through its strategic business units, meeting international standards of quality, safety and timely delivery. EPC, item rate and lump sum turnkey services are offered for transportation infrastructure projects in India and abroad.
They are seeking Head - Design (Signalling and Telecom) to lead the design and development of signalling and telecommunication systems for railway infrastructure projects, ensuring safety, efficiency, and reliability.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the design teams for signalling and telecom systems.
- Develop and implement design standards, guidelines, and processes.
- Ensure compliance with industry regulations, safety standards, and client requirements.
- Oversee design development, testing, and validation.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams for project execution
- Manage design budgets, resources, and timelines.
- Conduct site visits and inspections.
- Develop and maintain relationships with clients, stakeholders, and industry partners.
- Implement quality process in design as per relevant standards
- Carry out benchmarking for various design activities
- Stay updated on industry trends, technologies, and best practices.
Job Requirements
Qualification:
- Bachelor's & Master's degree in Electrical, Electronics, or Telecommunication Engineering.
- 20 years of experience in Railways signalling and telecom systems design.
- At least 10 years of experience in a similar position
- Proficiency in software like SignaTEK, ADS, Simulink & COMSOL.
- Proven leadership experience in managing design teams.
- Expertise in signalling and telecom systems.
- Strong knowledge of industry standards.
- Excellent communication, project management, and problem-solving skills.
Desirable Skills:
- Knowledge of cybersecurity and data analytics.
- Familiarity with international signalling and telecom standards.
- Experience with design automation tools and simulation software.
- Business acumen and understanding of commercial aspects.
- Strong network within the industry.
Contact: Rajni Tewani (rajni@railpersonnel.com)
Head – Design (Civil) Faridabad, India
Job ID#: 14967
Discipline: Civil
Language: English
Job Description:
Our Client is one of pioneer Indian entity in Construction of Transportation Infrastructure business. The vertical spearheads the infrastructure segment comprising building and upgrading of Roads, Runways, Elevated Corridors and Railways which are the lifelines of any nation.
This vertical undertakes engineering and construction projects through its strategic business units, meeting international standards of quality, safety and timely delivery. EPC, item rate and lump sum turnkey services are offered for transportation infrastructure projects in India and abroad.
They are seeking Head - Design (Civil) to lead and oversee the design aspects of railway infrastructure projects, ensuring safety, efficiency, and reliability.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the design team for railway projects including track, bridges, structures, tunnels, stations and other infrastructure.
- Develop and implement design standards, guidelines, and processes.
- Ensure compliance with industry regulations, safety standards, and client requirements.
- Collaborating with proposals team for pre bid activities and the project execution team for implementation of design and troubleshooting.
- Coordinate with RDSO and other clients for design approval.
- Conduct analysis and simulation.
- Oversee design development, testing, and validation.
- Manage design budgets, resources, and timelines.
- Conduct inspection and monitoring design implementation at project sites
- Develop and maintain relationships with clients, stakeholders, Railway zones, divisions and industry partners.
- Implement quality process in design as per relevant standards
- Carryout benchmarking for various design activities
- Stay updated on industry trends, technologies, and best practices.
Job Requirements
Qualification:
- Bachelor's & Master's degree Civil Engineering.
- 20 years of experience in Railways design and construction.
- At least 10 years of experience in a similar position
- Proficiency in Design software (AutoCAD, MicroStation, Revit & STAAD)
- Proven leadership experience in managing design teams.
- Strong knowledge of industry standards.
- Excellent communication, project management, and problem-solving skills.
Desirable Skills:
- Knowledge of cybersecurity and data analytics.
- Familiarity with ballast less and ballast track design standards.
- Experience with design automation tools and simulation software.
- Business acumen and understanding of commercial aspects.
- Aware of Railways standard of Infrastructure
- Strong network within the industry.
Contact: Rajni Tewani (rajni@railpersonnel.com)
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