Senior Engineer, Bus Transit Engineering

Website AtkinsRéalis

Job Summary

The Senior Engineer, Bus Transit Engineering at AtkinsRéalis is a high-level technical leadership role within the global Rail, Transit Systems, and Telecoms practice. Based in Vancouver, BC, you will be a primary architect of the next generation of public transport, focusing heavily on Zero-Emission Bus (ZEB) technologies and depot modernization. This role requires the “wit” to integrate complex electrical charging infrastructure with existing urban civil works and the “grit” to lead multidisciplinary teams through the regulatory rigors of Canadian transit standards (CSA, NFPA, APTA) to deliver sustainable, world-class infrastructure.


Job Details

  • Employer: AtkinsRéalis (A world-class engineering services organization).

  • Location: Vancouver, BC (Hybrid working culture).

  • Expected Compensation: $117,200 – $161,200 annually (Base salary).

  • Status: Full-time.

  • Core Focus: Zero-emission fleets, charging facilities, BRT corridors, and depot modernization.


Key Responsibilities: The Transit Transformation Lifecycle

You are responsible for the technical “backbone” that allows a city’s bus network to transition from diesel to electric or hydrogen.

  • Systems Engineering & Design: Lead technical designs and specifications for bus fleets and on-board systems (telematics, ITS).

  • ZEB Infrastructure: Plan and design high-capacity charging infrastructure and the power distribution systems required for modern electric bus depots.

  • Feasibility & Consulting: Deliver specialized studies and implementation strategies for major public transit agencies across Canada.

  • Regulatory Compliance: Ensure all designs meet strict safety and engineering codes, including NFPA 130 (fixed guideway transit) and CSA standards.

  • Project Governance: Manage risk reviews, cost estimates, and quality control for multi-million dollar transit mandates.

  • Innovation Advocacy: Monitor emerging trends in automotive and transit engineering to develop internal “Golden Path” methodologies for the firm.


Candidate Profile & Qualifications

  • The “Professional Engineer”: Must hold a P. Eng. license in a Canadian province.

  • Transit Veteran: 10+ years of experience in transit infrastructure, specifically focused on bus systems.

  • Educational Foundation: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, or Automotive Engineering.

  • Technical Wit: Deep understanding of O&M (Operations & Maintenance), civil works, and electrical systems integration.

  • Strategic Grit: Proven ability to navigate complex stakeholder environments and deliver high-impact consulting mandates.


Technical Insights: Decarbonizing the Depot

Transitioning to an electric fleet isn’t just about buying new buses; it’s a massive power-grid challenge.

  • Charging Topologies: You will evaluate “Plug-in” vs. “OppCharge” (pantograph) systems. Depot charging requires managing massive peak loads, often necessitating on-site battery storage or microgrids.

  • Depot Modernization: Existing diesel depots must be retrofitted with specialized fire suppression systems (NFPA) and structural reinforcements to handle the increased weight of battery-electric buses.

  • BRT Systems: Designing Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridors involves specialized civil engineering for dedicated lanes and level-boarding stations that mimic subway efficiency.


Why AtkinsRéalis in Vancouver?

AtkinsRéalis is at the forefront of the “Energy Transition,” connecting data and technology to transform global infrastructure.

  • Sustainable Mission: You are directly contributing to the decarbonization of Canadian cities, helping transit agencies reach “Net Zero” targets.

  • Global Reach, Local Impact: While the role is based in Vancouver, you will support projects both nationally and internationally, leveraging a global network of experts.

  • Flexible Rewards: A “brilliant range” of flexible benefits tailored to your lifestyle, alongside a hybrid culture that respects work-life balance.

  • Career Evolution: With a dedicated National Lead for Bus Transit, you have a clear path for professional development and thought leadership within the firm.


Job Description

Do you believe that the future of urban mobility is quiet, clean, and efficient? AtkinsRéalis is seeking a Senior Bus Transit Engineer for our Vancouver practice. We aren’t looking for a “project manager”; we are looking for a technical visionary who has the “grit” to modernize a 50-year-old bus depot and the “wit” to integrate the latest intelligent transportation systems (ITS) into a city-wide network. If you want to engineer a better future for the planet and its people, you belong here.

In this role, you are an “Infrastructure Transformer.” You understand that every zero-emission bus on the road is a victory for the environment. Your goal is to provide “Excellence in Transit Engineering,” ensuring our clients’ networks are reliable, sustainable, and safe. We look for “Curiosity-first” professionals who are courageous, collaborative, and ready to lead the Canadian transit market.

Joining AtkinsRéalis means joining a world-class organization that values your privacy and your potential. We offer a competitive salary and a suite of benefits designed to help you thrive at every stage of your career. If you are a P. Eng. with a commitment to “Innovation and Sustainable Mobility,” we invite you to apply and help us change the world from our Vancouver hub.

AtkinsRéalis: Engineering a Better Future for Our Planet and Its People

AtkinsRéalis (formerly SNC-Lavalin) is a world-leading design, engineering, and project management organization defined by a culture of purposeful innovation, safety, and integrity. Its mission is to “engineer a better future for our planet and its people” by tackling real-world challenges—from sustainable infrastructure and clean energy to climate adaptation. The internal environment is growth-oriented and collaborative, characterized by a “Learning Company” philosophy that empowers employees to lead global projects while maintaining a strong local impact.

In 2026, AtkinsRéalis stands as a cornerstone of Canada’s industrial landscape, with its Vancouver and Burnaby offices serving as vital hubs for Western Canadian infrastructure and clean energy:

1. The Vancouver & Burnaby Hubs

AtkinsRéalis maintains a robust presence in the Lower Mainland, with offices at 745 Thurlow St (Vancouver) and specialized teams in Burnaby. These locations house over 500 professionals specializing in transportation, electrical design, and environmental remediation.

  • Top Employer Recognition: In 2026, the company was once again named one of Canada’s Top 100 Employers for Young People, recognized for its dedicated support of early-career talent and inclusive workplace culture.

  • Specialized Service Pillars: The Vancouver teams lead high-value contracts (averaging $100k – $1M+) in sectors including:

    • Rail & Transit: Managing complex signaling and infrastructure for BC’s growing transit networks.

    • Clean Power & Nuclear: Supporting the surge in nuclear and renewable energy projects across Canada.

    • Environmental Protection: Leading remediation and natural resource projects to safeguard BC’s ecosystems.

2. Major 2026 Projects in British Columbia

AtkinsRéalis is the technical engine behind several landmark projects that are currently defining BC’s infrastructure:

  • Surrey-Langley SkyTrain (SLS): A massive $4.45B PPP project. In 2026, work is at peak intensity following the 2024 contract awards, with AtkinsRéalis providing critical engineering and project management to extend rapid transit further into the Fraser Valley.

  • John Hart Generating Station: A flagship example of their “Engineering Net Zero” approach. The team is managing the life cycle rehabilitation and decommissioning of designated portions of this BC Hydro facility on Vancouver Island.

  • Tlingit Homeland Energy Project: Demonstrating their commitment to Indigenous Reconciliation, AtkinsRéalis is the design engineer for this First Nation-owned hydro expansion in Atlin, BC, increasing capacity from 2.1 MW to 10 MW.

  • Site C Clean Energy Project: Continuing their long-term involvement in one of Canada’s largest infrastructure builds, providing specialized engineering support to help the province transition to a low-carbon grid.

3. Culture & “The Odyssey Journey”

The 2026 workplace culture is centered on the Wellbeing Framework Act, which prioritizes mental, physical, and financial health.

  • The Odyssey Program: A premier 18-month development journey for new graduates, designed to equip them with both technical mastery and “people skills.”

  • Youth Advisor Initiative: A local Vancouver/Burnaby chapter connects young professionals through social events (like escape rooms and bowling) and mentorship with senior leaders.

  • Flexible “Work Anywhere”: Employees benefit from an international remote work program, allowing them to work from abroad for up to 20 days per year, alongside standard hybrid arrangements.

  • Indigenous Relations: The company holds a Bronze-level PAIR certification (Partnership Accreditation in Indigenous Relations), reflecting its active efforts to integrate reconciliation into its business model.

4. 2026 Financial & Career Outlook

Following a record-breaking 2025 where revenue hit $11 billion (up 14%), the company enters 2026 with a $21.2 billion backlog.

  • Job Security & Choice: The massive backlog gives engineers and project managers more autonomy over which projects they take on.

  • Salary & Benefits: Known for competitive packages, AtkinsRéalis pays up to 92% of health plan premiums and offers a $1,400 annual tuition subsidy. New employees typically start with 3 weeks of vacation.

  • Sustainability Tools: Employees use proprietary tools like Decarbonomics™ and Carbon Insights to make emissions “visible” and actionable across the entire project lifecycle.

Working at AtkinsRéalis in Vancouver means being part of a “Global Canadian Success Story.” Whether you are a Structural Engineer designing earthquake-safe bridges or a Project Manager leading the SkyTrain expansion, the experience is defined by the opportunity to “be the change” and build a resilient, net-zero world.

To apply for this job please visit careers.atkinsrealis.com.