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Assistant Designer (SCADA), Communications - Job Opportunity at Toronto Transit Commission

Toronto, Canada
Full-time
Mid-level
Posted: June 25, 2025
Hybrid
CAD 87,596.60 - 109,509.40 per year

Benefits

Comprehensive defined benefit pension plan providing financial security and retirement stability superior to most private sector offerings
Full health, dental, and vision coverage ensuring complete healthcare protection for employees and their families
Flexible hybrid work arrangement enabling optimal work-life balance while maintaining collaborative productivity
Extensive professional development opportunities including in-person training, online learning platforms, and leadership development programs
Employee well-being support programs demonstrating organizational commitment to mental health and personal growth
Equity, diversity, and inclusion initiatives creating a supportive and representative workplace environment
Accommodation support throughout employment ensuring accessibility and barrier-free work environment

Key Responsibilities

Lead technical operations for critical SCADA infrastructure serving North America's third-largest transit system, directly impacting millions of annual passenger journeys through system reliability and safety optimization
Drive cross-departmental collaboration to establish technical specifications and standards that ensure seamless integration of control systems across the entire TTC network
Execute advanced control system design and PLC programming initiatives that enhance operational efficiency and reduce system downtime across subway and surface operations
Coordinate with internal stakeholders and external vendors to maintain consistency in SCADA implementation, ensuring adherence to industry standards and regulatory compliance
Facilitate testing and commissioning processes working alongside unionized technical staff to ensure successful deployment of new SCADA-connected devices
Provide strategic design review oversight for major transit expansion projects, contributing technical expertise that supports TTC's growth and modernization objectives
Conduct complex troubleshooting and root cause analysis for SCADA system failures, implementing solutions that prevent service disruptions and maintain operational continuity
Develop and implement innovative SCADA applications and features that meet evolving operational requirements and enhance system performance
Manage virtualization infrastructure to ensure robust SCADA system performance and minimize operational risks through proactive monitoring and maintenance

Requirements

Education

Post-secondary college diploma or university degree in a related discipline (i.e. Electrical Engineering) or a combination of education, training and experience deemed to be equivalent

Experience

Not explicitly specified, but practical working experience with SCADA systems and strong programming foundation required

Required Skills

Strong troubleshooting and critical thinking skills Gather information and conduct research Use office technology, software and applications Plan and organize activities / projects to meet section and organizational goals Communicate in a variety of mediums Good programming experience or a strong programming foundation to build from Ability to troubleshoot SCADA software and architecture related issues including network, programming, configuration etc. issues Understanding of design principles, best practices, and common vendors and protocols used in SCADA systems Knowledge of the Ontario Hydro Electric Safety Code, Ontario Building Code, CSA standards and other applicable codes and standards Sound judgement, proven technical design skills, well-developed organizational, analytical and problem-solving skills, effective verbal communication and technical writing skills Familiar with CADD (preferably MicroStation CADD) and other computerized applications applicable to the work

Certifications

Certification through PEO or O.A.C.E.T.T is considered an asset Wonderware System Platform experience is considered an asset SCADA programming experience is an asset Subway Rulebook Certification (training provided upon hiring)
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Sauge AI Market Intelligence

Industry Trends

Transit infrastructure modernization is accelerating globally as cities invest in smart transportation systems, creating significant demand for SCADA specialists who can integrate IoT devices, predictive analytics, and real-time monitoring capabilities into legacy transit networks. This trend is particularly pronounced in North American cities where aging infrastructure requires comprehensive upgrades to meet modern safety and efficiency standards. The convergence of operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT) in transit systems is driving demand for professionals who understand both traditional SCADA architecture and modern cybersecurity protocols, as transit agencies face increasing pressure to protect critical infrastructure from cyber threats while maintaining operational efficiency. Climate change initiatives and sustainability mandates are pushing transit agencies to implement more sophisticated energy management and environmental monitoring systems, requiring SCADA professionals with expertise in renewable energy integration, carbon footprint tracking, and energy optimization algorithms.

Salary Evaluation

The provided salary range of CAD 87,596 - 109,509 (approximately USD 65,000 - 81,000) is competitive for the Canadian transit industry and reflects the specialized nature of SCADA expertise in critical infrastructure. This compensation level positions slightly above median for mid-level engineering technologists in Toronto's market, with the potential for growth through professional certification and expanded responsibilities in major transit expansion projects.

Role Significance

Typically operates within a specialized SCADA team of 5-8 technical professionals, collaborating across multiple departments including signals engineering, maintenance, and operations, while interfacing with external vendors and contractors on major projects.
This mid-level technical role operates with significant autonomy in SCADA system design and implementation while reporting to senior engineering leadership. The position carries substantial responsibility for system reliability affecting millions of transit users, indicating high organizational trust and technical authority within the communications engineering department.

Key Projects

Major transit expansion initiatives including subway line extensions and surface route optimization projects Legacy system modernization efforts to replace aging SCADA infrastructure with contemporary platforms Integration projects connecting new transit facilities and equipment to centralized monitoring systems Cybersecurity enhancement initiatives to protect critical transit infrastructure from emerging threats

Success Factors

Technical mastery of SCADA platforms, particularly Wonderware System Platform, combined with strong troubleshooting capabilities that enable rapid resolution of system issues affecting transit operations. Success requires the ability to work under pressure during service disruptions while maintaining systematic diagnostic approaches. Collaborative communication skills that facilitate effective coordination between diverse stakeholder groups, including unionized maintenance staff, engineering teams, external contractors, and senior management. The ability to translate technical concepts for non-technical audiences while maintaining precision in technical documentation is crucial. Project management capabilities that enable successful coordination of complex technical implementations across multiple departments and external vendors, with particular emphasis on meeting critical deadlines that affect public transit service delivery. Continuous learning orientation that keeps pace with evolving SCADA technologies, cybersecurity threats, and transit industry best practices, while maintaining current knowledge of applicable codes and standards that govern transit infrastructure.

Market Demand

High demand driven by infrastructure modernization needs, aging workforce retirement, and expansion of transit systems across major Canadian cities, with particular strength in the Greater Toronto Area due to ongoing transit development projects.

Important Skills

Critical Skills

SCADA programming and system architecture expertise represents the core technical competency for this role, as the ability to design, implement, and troubleshoot complex control systems directly impacts transit service reliability and passenger safety. Proficiency in platforms like Wonderware System Platform is essential for maintaining and expanding TTC's existing infrastructure while integrating new technologies. Advanced troubleshooting and analytical problem-solving capabilities are fundamental to success in this role, as SCADA system failures can cascade into major service disruptions affecting hundreds of thousands of daily passengers. The ability to quickly diagnose complex technical issues across hardware, software, and network components is critical for maintaining operational continuity. Project coordination and cross-functional collaboration skills are essential given the interdisciplinary nature of transit infrastructure projects, where SCADA implementations must integrate seamlessly with mechanical systems, electrical infrastructure, and operational procedures while meeting strict safety and regulatory requirements.

Beneficial Skills

Professional engineering certification through PEO enhances career advancement opportunities and provides formal recognition of technical expertise, particularly valuable for leadership roles and major project assignments that require professional engineering oversight and regulatory compliance. Cybersecurity knowledge and experience with IT/OT convergence becomes increasingly valuable as transit systems face growing cyber threats and implement more connected, intelligent infrastructure that requires sophisticated security protocols and risk management strategies. Experience with emerging technologies such as IoT integration, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence applications in transit systems positions professionals for leadership roles in next-generation SCADA implementations and smart transit initiatives that leverage big data and predictive analytics.

Unique Aspects

Opportunity to work on North America's third-largest transit system, providing exposure to complex urban transportation challenges and cutting-edge SCADA implementations that serve millions of annual passengers across diverse transit modes including subway, streetcar, and bus operations.
Integration with major transit expansion projects including new subway lines and system modernization initiatives that represent multi-billion dollar infrastructure investments, offering career-defining project experience and technical skill development opportunities.
Collaborative environment with unionized technical staff that provides valuable hands-on learning opportunities and practical implementation experience, bridging the gap between engineering design and operational reality in transit system management.
Public sector stability combined with competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits package, including defined benefit pension plan that provides long-term financial security superior to most private sector engineering positions.

Career Growth

Progression to senior technical roles typically occurs within 3-5 years with demonstrated project success and professional certification, while management transitions generally require 5-8 years of progressive experience and proven leadership capabilities.

Potential Next Roles

Senior Design Engineer (SCADA) with expanded project leadership responsibilities and technical oversight authority SCADA Systems Manager overseeing multiple technical specialists and strategic system planning initiatives Communications Engineering Manager with broader departmental responsibilities including budget management and strategic planning Principal Engineer roles in transit consulting firms specializing in SCADA implementation for major transit agencies

Company Overview

Toronto Transit Commission

The Toronto Transit Commission operates as North America's third-largest public transit system, serving the Greater Toronto Area with comprehensive subway, streetcar, and bus services. As a public agency with over 15,000 employees, the TTC manages critical urban infrastructure that facilitates millions of passenger trips annually while pursuing ambitious expansion and modernization initiatives.

TTC maintains a dominant position in the Canadian transit market and serves as a benchmark for transit operations across North America. The organization's scale, technical complexity, and ongoing expansion projects position it as a leading employer for transit engineering professionals, offering exposure to cutting-edge transportation technologies and major infrastructure development initiatives.
As the primary transit provider for Canada's largest metropolitan area, TTC holds significant regional influence and serves as a key partner in broader transportation planning initiatives across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area. The organization's decisions and technical implementations often influence transit development strategies across other Canadian cities.
TTC emphasizes collaborative teamwork, professional development, and inclusive workplace practices while maintaining high standards for technical excellence and public service delivery. The hybrid work model reflects modern workplace flexibility while acknowledging the hands-on nature of transit infrastructure management.
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