Chief Engineer - Passengers Experience

JOB PURPOSE:

Drive strategic integrity and future-ready Automatic Fare Collection (AFC) systems for current and new Rail Projects by governing technical implementation, vendor performance, and risk-controlled operations. Assure seamless passenger flow, revenue protection, and continual service improvement through rigorous technical and contractual oversight.

ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Define long-term AFC system objectives across all rail projects, aligning technical implementation plans with RTA’s operational and customer-experience goals.
• Lead technical integration planning for new lines, extensions and upgrades, ensuring compliance with design and performance standards.
• Establish cross-departmental coordination frameworks to integrate AFC infrastructure with wider RTA and stakeholder systems.
• Provide and approve disaster recovery procedures related to AFC devices and operating systems, including periodic review and testing.

• Oversee all technical vendors and service providers for AFC systems, managing deliverables, performance reviews, and contract compliance.
• Monitor operator performance on Dubai Metro & Tram AFC systems, including timely parameter downloads, configuration updates, and fare stock security.
• Manage AFC-related contracts from inception to closure, coordinating with internal departments and external stakeholders for seamless technical delivery.
• Evaluate and monitor the operator’s efficiency in managing AFC central systems, ticket inspection devices, fare gates, and laboratory facilities.
• Study and review feasibility of AFC improvements and upgrades in coordination with the Automated Collection Department and concerned units, ensuring budget availability and operational efficiency.
• Monitor and verify the operator’s performance in managing Nol card/ticket inventory, approving supply requests to ensure adequate stock availability.
• Verify correctness of AFC-related financial data and transactions, including ticket/card revenues, cash/credit settlements, and lost-transaction claims, in coordination with Finance and the operator.
• Implement tariff schedules and amendments to AFC hardware and Equipment Operating Data (EOD) in coordination with the Automated Collection systems.
• Monitor AFC O&M contractor activities across lifecycle and provide instructions regarding AFC preventive/corrective maintenance, obsolescence management, and compliance with KPI standards.

• Analyze AFC software failures and collaborate with suppliers of fare systems to develop operational strategies that minimize customer impact.
• Study and evaluate AFC system performance, issuing periodic reports and statistical data to monitor passenger volumes, revenue collected, and improvement opportunities.
• Study and analyze station entrances, AFC device placement, and ticket sales locations to prepare development and efficiency plans.
• Manage and coordinate factory tests, integration tests, and operational readiness reviews for AFC systems, ensuring technical approval and service quality.
• Manage integration of AFC systems with RTA’s digital media and multimodal platforms, enhancing interoperability and customer convenience.
• Provide expert advice in the development, drafting, and evaluation of AFC-related tender documentation, service contracts, bid analysis, and project management deliverables.

• Conduct regular site inspections and technical acceptance testing in depots, stations, and control rooms.
• Work under live-system conditions during AFC device testing and operational readiness trials, adhering to safety protocols and project timelines.

Education:# Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical or Computer Science Engineering or equivalent with experience intransportation Rail Operations in Fare Systems 8 years of working experience in the field.