At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the integration and optimisation of onboard digital systems for a smarter railway.
- Company: Avanti West Coast, transforming rail travel with a focus on innovation and sustainability.
- Benefits: Free travel, 30+ days holiday, and a supportive team culture.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to inclusivity and personal growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of passenger technology and drive impactful change in the rail industry.
- Qualifications: Degree in engineering and experience in the UK rail industry required.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
At Avanti West Coast, we’re transforming rail travel across the West Coast Main Line.
As a joint venture between First Group and Trenitalia, we connect millions of customers across England, Scotland and Wales through a safer, smarter and more sustainable railway.
We’re seeking an experienced
Principal Systems Engineer to lead the integration, development and optimisation of onboard digital and fleet technology systems.
This is a highly visible role where you’ll shape the future of passenger-facing technology, influence strategic decision-making, and drive innovation across our Class 390 and Class 80x fleets.
The Opportunity
As the technical authority for onboard digital and software-based systems, you will act as the critical link between Fleet Engineering, Technology, Customer Experience, Asset Owners, Manufacturers and Maintainers.
You’ll ensure our onboard systems deliver exceptional reliability, performance, and customer outcomes
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the integration and performance of onboard digital and software-based systems across the fleet.
- Define and drive the fleet systems strategy in alignment with business, customer and technology roadmaps.
- Provide technical leadership across Class 390 and Class 80x fleets.
- Own system architecture principles, ensuring interoperability, robust interfaces and effective data flows.
- Lead onboard technology projects and fleet digital initiatives from concept through delivery.
- Manage system performance and reliability, driving continual improvement.
- Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to deliver innovative engineering solutions.
- Influence senior leaders on technology strategy, priorities and system design.
- Understanding of Cyber Security, Privacy & Data Protection principles.
- Participate in the Fleet Engineering on-call rota.
Take a look at the role profile for more information.
What We're Looking For
- Traction and Rolling Stock Engineering.
- Technical report writing.
- Root cause analysis.
- Production of risk assessments.
- Power Points / presentation of data.
- Knowledge & Experience
- Experience working in the UK rail industry.
- Working knowledge of Traction and Rolling Stock Engineering.
- Broad experience of onboard systems
- Experience of change management, and the ability to introduce positive change.
- Experience communicating and influencing a variety of people from shop-floor staff to Directors.
Qualifications
- Degree educated Engineer in a relevant discipline with Chartered or Incorporated Status (or a plan for working towards).
- Significant project management experience- PRINCE2 or Agile qualifications or equivalent work experience.
As well as working with a fantastic team you will also receive
- Free travel on Avanti West Coast for you/spouse/partner/dependents
- Privilege Travel card (75% off other train operators fares for leisure travel)
- 30 days holiday rising by 1 for every completed year of service to a maximum of 37 days (inclusive of bank holidays)
- 10 free journeys on other First Group Train Operators
We reserve the right to withdraw this advert at any time due to high volumes of applications .
At Avanti West Coast, we value the differences that make each of us outstanding!
Avanti West Coast recognises the benefits of building a diverse workforce and employing people from diverse backgrounds, which includes their race, religion, age, gender, gender identity, disability, and sexual orientation.
Everyone who joins Avanti West Coast becomes part of our close-knit team.
We’re committed to ensuring that Avanti West Coast is inclusive, a place where people are encouraged to be themselves, and not an edited version to fit in.
A place where differences are encouraged, recognised, accepted and put to good use.
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Senior System Engineer in Birmingham employer: Avanti West Coast
Avanti West Coast is an exceptional employer that prioritises innovation and operational excellence in the catering sector. With a strong focus on employee development, we offer continuous growth opportunities and a collaborative work culture that values your contributions. Located in a dynamic environment, our team enjoys the unique advantage of being part of a forward-thinking organisation dedicated to enhancing customer experiences through cutting-edge digital systems.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior System Engineer in Birmingham
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Senior System Engineer role you’re after at Avanti West Coast.
✨Show Off Your Projects!
Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at Avanti West Coast a taste of what you can bring to the table!
✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at Avanti West Coast.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Senior System Engineer at Avanti West Coast, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior System Engineer in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Senior System Engineer, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at Avanti West Coast a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to Avanti West Coast specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Avanti West Coast
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with Avanti West Coast, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like Avanti West Coast want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
