Release Train Engineer (RTE)
The role of a Release Train Engineer (RTE)
A Release Train Engineer (RTE), also known as ‘Super Scrum Master’, communicates with stakeholders, escalates impediments and helps manage risk. A RTE further helps configure SAFe to the organisation’s needs, standardising and documenting practices. Many RTEs also participate in Lean-Agile transformation, coaching leaders, teams and Scrum Masters in the new processes and mindsets.
Over the past few years, RTEs have seen their standing rise, meanwhile becoming a formal/full time role within organisations that have adopted agile working. Main reason behind this is the development the role has made in the SAFe methodology released by Scaled Agile, the US-based thinker and guardian of the way of working. In the first edition of SAFE, the RTE was pictured outside the release train, a feat which also was the case for SAFe 2.1 and SAFE 2.5. When Scaled Agile launched the largely expanded SAFe 3.0, the RTE for the first time was included in the supporting group for release trains.
Articles about Release Train Engineers (RTEs)
Take a look at some of our articles to get to know the role of a Release Train Engineer (RTE).
Become a certified Release Train Engineer (RTE)
Gladwell Academy delivers innovative, practically oriented training sessions and masterclasses for governments and businesses. We are SPCT Gold partner of Scaled Agile™, the founders of the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe). The highest quality training, consulting and coaching to support the Lean-Agile transformation using SAFe is offered. We are the authorized provider of all SAFe training courses including SAFe Program Consultant (SPC) and Release Train Engineer (RTE).
Take a look at the video and see what you can expect from our RTE course!
Responsibilities of a Release Train Engineer (RTE)
Managing the ART
Manage and optimize the flow of value through the ART using various tools, such as Kanbans and other information radiators (© Scaled Agile, Inc.).
Coaching
Coach leaders, teams and Scrum Masters in Lean-Agile practices and mindsets (© Scaled Agile, Inc.).
Fostering a Continuous Exploration process
Facilitate PI Planning readiness by fostering a Continuous Exploration process which drives the synthesis of a Vision, a Roadmap, and Backlogs, and through Pre- and Post-PI Planning Meetings (© Scaled Agile, Inc.).
Work with stakeholders
Work with Product and Solution Management, Product Owners, and other stakeholders to help ensure strategy and execution alignment (© Scaled Agile, Inc.).
To find out more about the responsibilities of a Release Train Engineer (RTE), click here
SAFe Scrum Master (SSM)
SAFe Product Owner (POPM)
SAFe Advanced Scrum Master
SAFe Agilist (SA)
Release Train Engineer (RTE)
SAFe Program Consultant (SPC)
The SAFe roles
The Scaled Agile Framework has multiple different roles:
- A SAFe Agilist improves the adaption process of Lean Agile mindset within the organisation.
- A Release Train Engineer keeps the Agile Trains of an organisation on track.
- A SAFe Program consultant is the leading agent who implements the whole SAFe framework in the organisation.
Besides these roles, there are also other important SAFe roles: SAFe Scrum Master, SAFe Product Owner, SAFe Advanced Scrum Master.
Upcoming courses

Which training suits you the best?
Our training advisor can provide you with advice.
Your Training & Development Advisor Anoop Upadhyaya is there to help you finding the right solution for you and your organization, whether it being a training course or attending one of our industry events, or any question regarding our offering.