At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design of innovative automation solutions and establish technical standards.
- Company: Join Network Rail, a key player in revitalising Britain's railway.
- Benefits: Flexible working, competitive pay, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of rail automation and AI technology.
- Qualifications: Experience in Intelligent Automation and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 88000 £ per year.
On behalf of Network Rail, we are looking for an Automation Architecture Lead for a 6-12 month contract based 3 days per week in the London, Waterloo office. Network Rail is at the heart of revitalising Britain's railway. From Crossrail - Europe's largest civil engineering project - to investment in world-class stations and major programmes of electrification, we are involved in some of the most ambitious and diverse ventures that this country has ever seen. We at Network Rail are dedicated to becoming one of Britain's best employers and believe this starts with placing the candidate at the heart of everything we do!
Job Purpose
The purpose of the Automation Architecture Lead is to provide hands-on technical, architectural and solution engineering leadership for the GBRX industry automation function. The role is responsible for defining the automation architecture, leading the design of automation solutions, establishing technical standards, and ensuring secure, scalable and reusable automation products by design. Working closely with other technical leads and delivery pods, the postholder will ensure that solution architecture and engineering excellence enable successful delivery of automation solutions while creating strategic technology assets that strengthen industry capability through the design and development of technically robust and operationally sustainable solutions capable of being reused across the rail industry.
What You'll Be Doing
- Lead the design and governance of end-to-end Intelligent Automation and Agentic AI solutions.
- Define scalable, secure and reusable architecture patterns aligned to enterprise architecture principles and technology strategy.
- Develop architecture standards, reference architectures and integration frameworks for industry-wide adoption.
- Design low-code and pro-code automation solutions using modern Microsoft and cloud-native technologies.
- Create reusable architecture capability products, implementation blueprints and technical design standards.
- Review and assure solution designs, providing architectural governance and technical leadership across delivery teams and partners.
- Assess emerging technologies and lead proof-of-concepts to support the adoption of innovative automation and AI capabilities.
- Drive architecture consistency, technical quality and long-term sustainability across the automation portfolio.
- Coach and mentor architects and engineers, helping build a mature and enduring Intelligent Automation capability.
- Collaborate with industry partners, suppliers and multidisciplinary delivery teams to accelerate automation at scale.
What We're Looking For
Essential Experience
- Significant experience designing enterprise-scale Intelligent Automation, AI Automation or Solution Architectures.
- Strong experience designing hybrid low-code and pro-code solutions.
- Experience building and integrating operational copilots, AI agents and automation platforms.
- Strong knowledge of API-led, event-driven and integration architecture patterns.
- Experience applying architecture governance, design assurance and enterprise architecture principles.
- Experience working within Agile multidisciplinary delivery environments.
- Strong stakeholder management, communication and influencing skills.
- Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Information Technology or equivalent experience.
Technical Expertise
Experience across several of the following technologies:
- Azure AI Foundry
- Azure OpenAI Service
- Copilot Studio
- Azure Integration Services
- Azure Logic Apps
- Azure Functions
- Microsoft Fabric
- Microsoft Graph
- Azure DevOps
- GitHub
- Docker
- Kubernetes
- Terraform
- Python
- C#
- JavaScript/TypeScript
- LangChain
- LangGraph
- CrewAI
Desirable
- Experience within rail, transport, infrastructure or other regulated environments.
- Microsoft Azure Solutions Architect Expert certification.
- Microsoft Azure AI Engineer Associate certification.
- TOGAF certification.
- Experience working across federated organisations and large-scale transformation programmes.
Network Rail is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. They welcome applications from everyone.
Disability Confident
As a member of the Disability Confident Scheme, Network Rail guarantees to interview all candidates who have a disability and who meet all the essential criteria for the vacancy. In cases where we have a high volume of candidates who have a disability who meet all the essential criteria, we will interview the best candidates from within that group. This scheme encourages candidates with a disability and/or neurodivergence to apply.
Armed Forces Covenant
Network Rail guarantees to interview veterans or spouses/partners of military personnel who meet all the essential criteria for the vacancy. In cases where we have a high volume of ex-military candidates/military spouses or partners, who meet all of the essential criteria, we will interview the best candidates from within that group.
In applying for this role, you acknowledge the following: this role falls in scope of the Off Payroll Working in the Public Sector legislation. Any rates of payment quoted will reflect the gross rate per day for the assignment and will be subject to appropriate taxes and statutory costs. As such the payment to the intermediary and your income resulting from this contract will be different.
Agentic Automation Architect employer: Alexander Mann Solutions - Public Sector Resourcing
The Government Property Agency is an exceptional employer, committed to reshaping the Civil Service and providing innovative workplaces across the UK. With a strong focus on employee growth, collaboration, and inclusivity, the Agency offers a dynamic work culture that values diverse perspectives and encourages continuous improvement. Working in locations like Manchester, Darlington, or Sheffield not only allows for hybrid flexibility but also places you at the heart of significant government transformation initiatives, making your role impactful and rewarding.
Contact Details:
Alexander Mann Solutions - Public Sector Resourcing Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Agentic Automation Architect
✨Join Industry Meetups
Get stuck into automation and control systems meetups in your area. Not only will you learn a ton, but it's a fantastic way to meet professionals who are already in the field. You never know who might know about temporary roles at companies like Alexander Mann Solutions - Public Sector Resourcing or elsewhere!
✨Use Niche Job Boards
While big job boards are fine, don’t overlook niche sites focused specifically on automation and control systems. Websites like ControlGlobal or Automation.com often post temporary roles that might not make it to mainstream sites. Keep an eye out there to snag a role that fits your skills!
✨Engage in Online Communities
Get involved in online forums and communities focused on automation and control systems. Platforms like Reddit or LinkedIn groups can be goldmines for job leads and insider tips. Plus, you'll be mingling with experts who can give you insights about companies like Alexander Mann Solutions - Public Sector Resourcing.
✨Flexible Availability is Key
Since you're looking at temporary work, make sure to highlight your flexibility and quick-start ability. In industries like automation, needs can pop up unexpectedly, so being ready to jump in can set you apart from others. Remember, we recommend applying directly through our website for the freshest updates!
We think you need these skills to ace Agentic Automation Architect
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Technical Skills:When applying for a role in automation and control systems, make sure your CV showcases your specific technical skills. Include programming languages, control system software, and any relevant hardware experience. We've seen that hands-on experience with PLCs or SCADA systems can really make your application pop!
Tailor Your Portfolio:Since this is a temporary role, we recommend including a portfolio that highlights your past projects or any relevant troubleshooting experiences. Showcase your problem-solving skills in action—this could give you an edge in demonstrating your capability to adapt quickly to the team at Alexander Mann Solutions - Public Sector Resourcing.
Show Off Your Flexibility:Temporary positions often require quick learning and adaptability. In your cover letter, express your eagerness to jump in and contribute right from the get-go. Highlight any previous short-term roles where you adapted to new systems or teams swiftly; it's all about that 'can-do' attitude!
Don’t Forget to Highlight Certifications:In automation-control-systems, having certifications is a big deal! Be sure to list any relevant qualifications clearly on your CV—whether that's in PLC programming, industrial automation, or safety standards. This can really show that you’re not just experienced but also committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at Alexander Mann Solutions - Public Sector Resourcing
✨Showcase Your Technical Know-How
In the automation control systems field, it's crucial to flaunt your technical skills. Be prepared to discuss your experience with specific programming languages or tools like PLCs, SCADA systems, or HMI software. If you have hands-on projects, bring a portfolio that highlights your work; it'll speak volumes about your capabilities.
✨Expect Scenario-Based Questions
During your interview for this temporary role, be ready to tackle scenario-based questions. The interviewer might want to see how you would handle specific troubleshooting or design challenges in automation systems. Think of examples from your past experience where you had to solve a problem or implement a complex system.
✨Flexibility is Key
Given that this position is temporary, it’s vital to express your adaptability and enthusiasm for short-term projects. Be ready to discuss your willingness to learn quickly and pick up new technologies or processes. Emphasise how you've thrived in past temporary roles or internships and what you learnt from those experiences.
✨Demonstrate Your Understanding of Industry Standards
Ensure you're familiar with industry standards and regulations related to automation control systems. Talk about any relevant certifications you hold or ongoing education you've pursued. Showing that you’re knowledgeable about compliance and safety standards can give you an edge in the interview at Alexander Mann Solutions - Public Sector Resourcing.
