Director of Operations & Maintenance – High-Speed Rail

About the role

Parsons is seeking a seasoned Director of Operations & Maintenance to shape the O&M strategy for a flagship High‑Speed Rail program in the United Arab Emirates. You will define the operational framework, safety assurance processes, and readiness plans required to launch and sustain 320 km/h railway services.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and implement the Operations & Maintenance philosophy for safe, reliable, and efficient HSR operations.
• Define operational and maintenance requirements for the contracted railway operator.
• Lead the creation and approval of the Operations Safety Case and related assurance processes.
• Direct the operational readiness program, including procedures, training, emergency drills, trial runs, commissioning support, and regulatory compliance.
• Coordinate with engineering, systems, safety, regulatory, and program delivery teams to embed operational needs throughout the project lifecycle.
• Support the transition from construction and commissioning to revenue‑service operations.
• Provide strategic leadership on railway operations, maintenance planning, asset management, and performance objectives.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Railway Operations, Transportation Management, or a related discipline.
• Extensive senior‑level experience in railway operations and maintenance leadership.
• Proven ability to manage operational risks and resolve complex challenges in high‑performance environments.
• Strong stakeholder management and team coordination capabilities.

Required skills

• Railway operations
• Maintenance planning
• Asset management
• Operational safety frameworks

What we offer

• Opportunity to lead a high‑visibility, large‑scale infrastructure program.
• Collaborative, innovative culture that values growth and agility.
• Competitive compensation package aligned with senior leadership roles.