Principal Application Engineer

Overview As Principal Application Engineer you define, architect and validate complex railroad solutions within Wabtec’s Digital Intelligence portfolio. You bridge railroad operations and software teams to translate customer needs into architectures and roadmaps, with a focus on autonomous train operations and automated yard management. You will influence design decisions, drive simulations and field validation, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards, delivering safe, efficient, and reliable outcomes. Compensation / Benefitshealth benefitswelfare programsretirement plansannual bonus (if eligible)opportunities for global travelemployee benefits ResponsibilitiesElicit solution requirements from customer RFIs/RFPs and translate into functional software specsConvert Train Handling Dynamics into software requirements for Autonomous Train Operation algorithmsOptimize engine calibration and energy management for efficient, compliant operationDefine technical parameters for automated systems to manage in-train forces and brakingDocument edge-case physics for safe-stop protocolsLead simulation environment development to test train handling across rail networksLead on-site testing and ride-alongs to validate autonomous handling in real operationsEnsure automated logic complies with ABTH rules, GCOR/NORAC standards, and FRA metricsServe as translator between locomotive engineers and software developersContribute to solution concept architecture aligned with customer requestsProvide technical leadership for issue resolution across streamsIdentify design/implementation risks and mitigation strategiesCollaborate with senior management on culture and speed initiativesProtect and develop Wabtec intellectual propertySupport pre-contract responses and RFP/RFI workstreamsPartner with test engineers for solution-level test plans and field validationCoordinate with product teams for field testing and monitoring at customer sites Key requirements15+ years of progressive railroad operations, locomotive manufacturing, or rail automation experienceDemonstrated experience leading complex technical solutions in customer-facing environmentsStrong analytical, problem-solving, and systems-thinking skillsExperience in systems engineering, requirements management, and solution integrationAbility to influence and lead across cross-functional organizationsWillingness to travel domestically and internationallyKnowledge of railroad operations and train handling (preferred)Familiarity with IBM ELM, DOORS, or DOORS Next (preferred)Technical understanding of the Digital Intelligence Product Portfolio (preferred)Strong communication and technical translation between engineers and customersCross-functional collaboration and leadershipAnalytical problem-solving and structured thinkingAutonomous Train Operation (ATO) conceptsTrain handling dynamics (slack, buff/draft, braking)Simulation and validation techniques