Director, Mechanical Technology

At CN , everyday brings new and exciting challenges . Y ou can expect a n interesting environment where you’re part of making sure our business is running opti mally and safely ― helping keep the economy on track . W e provide the kind of paid training and opportunit ies that long-term careers are built on and we recognize hard workers who strive to make a difference. You will be able to thrive in our close-knit, safe ty-focused culture working together as ONE TEAM . The careers we offer are meaningful because the work we do matters. Join us! Job Summary The incumbent is accountable for the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of locomotive and car technologies, with a strong focus on advancing CN’s technology innovation and implementation in the areas of locomotive, wayside detection network, and maturing data-driven analytics capabilities. The role leads the integration of engineering, detection systems, and analytics to improve safety, end-of-life asset extension, reliability, decarbonization, and network efficiency and performance. The role is responsible for translating emerging technologies into practical field applications—advancing next-generation locomotive platforms, strengthening the wayside detection ecosystem, and ensuring data is effectively leveraged to drive timely and accurate decisions. The role builds and executes a clear technology roadmap aligned to asset lifecycle needs, operational efficiency, and network velocity, while reducing failures, disruptions, and total cost of ownership. Main Responsibilities Detection, Technology Engineering · Identify and develop opportunities to enhance locomotive and wayside detection capabilities through both technology and process improvements · Own the end-to-end lifecycle for mechanical technology development—covering locomotives, wayside detection systems (e.g., WILD, ABD), onboard sensing, and supporting analytics platforms · Lead the design, field deployment, and scaling of locomotive platforms (low, medium, and high horsepower, including alternate propulsion) alongside detection and monitoring technologies · Drive the maturation of detection logic and data analytics to improve defect accuracy, reduce false alarms, and enable earlier intervention · Integrate wayside and onboard data streams into actionable insights that support maintenance planning, operational decision-making, and failure prevention · Analyze performance trends and field data to continuously refine detection thresholds, maintenance strategies, and system reliability · Lead cross-functional execution from concept through implementation, including capital planning, pilot programs, field validation, and network-wide rollout · Partner with OEMs and internal stakeholders to ensure alignment of equipment design, maintenance programs, and performance expectations · Establish and track KPIs tied to detection effectiveness, asset reliability, and network impact · Support AAR engagement, industry data reporting, and maintenance program documentation · Collaborate with regulatory bodies (FRA, TC) to support approvals, waivers, and the safe introduction of new technologies into service Strategy · Develop and maintain a practical technology roadmap for locomotives, detection systems, and analytics platforms, aligned with business priorities · Advance the integration of wayside detection and data analytics into a cohesive, network-wide detection strategy · Evaluate and implement emerging technologies with a focus on scalable, field-proven solutions rather than theoretical applications · Lead efforts to strengthen CN’s data foundation—ensuring detection data is reliable, accessible, and used consistently across the network · Drive the evolution from reactive and preventive maintenance toward predictive and condition-based approaches · Develop strategies that improve safety, network fluidity, and asset utilization through better detection coverage and data visibility · Build organizational capability in data-driven decision-making, including technical skill development and adoption of new tools · Provide clear direction and alignment across Mechanical, I T, and Operations to ensure successful execution of technology initiatives Financial · Own capital planning and prioritization for wayside detection systems, locomotive technology investments, and supporting infrastructure · Ensure disciplined investment in technologies that demonstrate measurable operational and safety benefits · Improve total cost of ownership by increasing detection reliability, reducing unnecessary stops, and targeting high-impact defects · Align detection investments with locomotive and car fleet lifecycle strategies · Monitor and deliver value through reduced failures, improved network performance, and avoided incidents · Drive cost efficiency through better targeting of maintenance interventions and optimization of inspection processes Working Conditions The role has standard working conditions in an office environment with a regular workweek from Monday to Friday. Due to the nature of the role, the incumbent must be able to meet tight deadlines, handle pressure, and manage competing priorities. The role requires up to 40% travel within Canada and the United States (U.S.). Requirements Experience · Minimum 10 years of experience in the railroad/transportation/adjacent industry · Minimum 5 years leading large-scale engineering, technology, or data-driven initiatives Education/Certification/Designation · Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Business, Operations, Production Management, or equivalent experience Competencies · Collaborates with others and shares information · Seeks and values different perspectives · Sets direction and engages teams · Communicates clearly and effectively · Demonstrates adaptability and drives change · Focuses on practical innovation · Understands the business and operational environment · Applies strong critical thinking · Delegates effectively and builds accountability · Develops talent and supports growth Technical Skills/Knowledge · Understanding of locomotive systems, wayside detection technologies, and mechanical reliability principles · Strong working knowledge of data analytics, including trend analysis, performance monitoring, and reliability engineering · Experience with integrating operational data into business decisions and maintenance practices · Project and program management capability across complex, cross-functional initiatives · Proven problem-solving and decision-making skills · Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools