Job Description

WSP is currently seeking a Modelling and Simulation Specialist to join our Rail and Transit team in Western Canada.

Reporting to the Manager, this applicant will have experience in rail network and operational simulations using software such as OpenTrack, RTC, RailSys, and Traction Power simulations using OpenPowerNet. Experience in pedestrian flow modelling and Discrete Event Modelling of rail operations will be considered an asset.

The successful candidate will also have experience in operational analysis of railway and transit systems, and design of rail systems including tunnel ventilation, traction power, signaling and train control, and track/alignment.

As a member of the Rail and Transit team, you will be given opportunities to define processes, create execution plans, mentor junior team members, lead multiple projects from a technical perspective, and expand the scope and business offerings of the Modelling and Simulation team.

With management support, you will create work plans, develop professional skills, and become a strong leader in the consulting environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Undertake a lead technical role on rail planning and operations modelling projects;
• Oversee and undertake modelling and simulation analysis for various rail transit operations and design applications including rail operations, traction power, and pedestrian flow, using industry standard tools and techniques;
• Perform operational analysis and rail network design using data and modelling driven approaches;
• Validate system design requirements through operational performance analysis and rail network planning;
• Train and mentor junior rail planners and operations modellers;
• Contribute to the growth and development of the Canadian Modelling and Simulation team, and integration to the WSP Global Modelling and Simulation network;
• Contribute to the development of tools to automate work processes and analyse / visualize simulation and modelling output;
• Manage the technical quality of work performed by other team members;
• Manage work on multiple projects as well as contribute to pursuits and proposals of varying complexity and size;
• Proactively build effective networks and industry relationships to gain cooperation in meeting business and client outcomes;
• Cultivate strong client relationships to effectively anticipate and fulfill their needs with innovative, comprehensive, and data-driven solutions;
• Provide expert input and guidance on thought papers or other initiatives such as Future Ready;
• Other duties as assigned/required

• Engineering degree from an accredited institution;
• Minimum five to ten years of professional experience in a similar capacity;
• Hands-on experience using rail operations microsimulation modelling tools such as OpenTrack, RailSys, RTC, Trenissimo or an equivalent market-leading rail simulation tool, including application for operational and infrastructure optioneering, the development of complex timetables, and demonstrated ability in mentoring others in its application;
• An understanding of the fundamentals of track layout design along with signalling principles;
• The ability to manipulate large datasets, advanced data analysis, data visualization, experience of computer programming using Python, VBA, or similar language;
• A power-user of Excel;
• Experience in process automation, advanced tool development and customization, especially using OpenTrack API, is an asset;
• Experience in applying models to simulate and analyze special scenarios including failure modes, single track analysis, etc.
• Expert knowledge of Timetable Planning Rules, and the ability to construct high level timetables;
• Knowledge and hands-on experience of rolling stock diagramming and or Train crew diagramming and rostering;
• An understanding of revenue and demand modelling;
• Proven experience in the rail and transit sector, including; light rail, rapid transit, mixed-traffic metropolitan passenger, freight, as well as yard operation;
• Detailed understanding and project experience of railway technology (Conventional Fixed Block, ETCS, CBTC);
• Experience in resource management including crew rostering, stock rostering, roster optimization, operational performance, and stabling;
• Experience in macroscopic rail modelling tools such as Viriato and Trapeez is considered an asset;
• Experience undertaking studies and analyses of travel time, headway, rail system capacity, dwell time, network improvements, traction power system performance, signal block layout/control line optimization, human resource management, and business change;
• Experience in business case development and preparation of Concept of Operations, Service Plans and operations documentation;
• Demonstrated experience in leading rail operations modelling team in a project environment;
• Demonstrated excellent attention to detail along with high-level verbal and written communication skills;
• Any experience with other modelling tools (MATLAB/Simulink, Labview, etc.) is an asset;
• Experience in Discrete Event Modelling tools such as AnyLogic is an asset
• Pedestrian modelling experience using LEGION, VISWALK, MassMotion or equivalent is an asset;
• Traffic modelling experience using VISSIM, Aimsun or equivalent is an asset
• 3D modelling experience using Google SketchUp or equivalent is an asset.

WSP