Chief Interface manager

The Chief Interface Coordinator for a metro project is responsible for managing and controlling all interfaces between civil, systems, rolling stock, utilities, contractors, consultants, government agencies, and operations teams. The role ensures seamless coordination across multiple packages so the metro project is delivered safely, on time, within budget, and in compliance with technical and contractual requirements.

Interface Management

• Lead and manage all project interfaces between design, construction, testing, commissioning, and operations teams.
• Coordinate interfaces among civil works, track, signaling, telecom, power supply, AFC, MEP, depot, and rolling stock packages.
• Maintain an Interface Register and track closure of interface issues.
• Define responsibilities, boundaries, and handover points between contractors.

Stakeholder Coordination

• Act as the main coordination point between client, EPC contractors, consultants, government bodies, and utility agencies.
• Liaise with local authorities for road diversions, traffic management, permits, and statutory approvals.
• Coordinate with future operations & maintenance teams for readiness.

Technical Oversight

• Review interface drawings, design submissions, and technical documents.
• Ensure compatibility between systems and civil structures.
• Identify clashes, risks, and conflicts in design or execution stages.
• Support BIM / digital coordination for multidisciplinary integration.

Project Controls

• Monitor interface-related delays and mitigation plans.
• Participate in project planning meetings and progress reviews.
• Support schedule integration across packages.
• Escalate critical issues affecting milestones.

Testing & Commissioning Support

• Coordinate integrated testing among all systems.
• Ensure readiness of subsystems for trial runs and operations.
• Manage handover interfaces for stations, depots, and line sections.

Risk, Safety & Quality

• Ensure compliance with project HSE standards and quality requirements.
• Identify interface risks and maintain mitigation actions.
• Support audits, inspections, and safety certifications.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Transportation Engineering, or related discipline.
• Master’s degree preferred.
• 15+ years of experience in large infrastructure / rail / metro projects.
• Minimum 5+ years in interface management or multidisciplinary coordination.
• Knowledge of metro systems integration and project lifecycle.

Required Skills

• Strong stakeholder management
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills
• Contractual awareness
• Risk management
• Primavera / MS Project knowledge
• BIM coordination knowledge
• Leadership and decision-making ability

Preferred Experience

• Experience in metro rail, railway, airport, tunnel, or large EPC projects.
• Familiarity with FIDIC / EPC contracts.
• Experience with testing & commissioning phases.

Reporting To

Project Director / Chief Project Manager / CEO of Metro Project SPV.

Success Metrics

• Timely closure of interface issues
• Zero critical coordination delays
• Successful integrated testing completion
• Smooth handover to operations
• On-time project milestone achievement

Typical Packages Coordinated in Metro Projects

• Elevated viaduct / underground tunnel
• Stations
• Depot
• Trackwork
• Signaling
• Telecom
• Traction power
• E&M systems
• Rolling stock
• Utility relocation