At a Glance
- Tasks: Join the HS2 project, designing and implementing cutting-edge mechanical systems for high-speed rail.
- Company: Costain+, a leader in innovative infrastructure solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development, and the chance to work on a transformative project.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for professional accreditation and growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a groundbreaking project that connects cities and drives economic growth.
- Qualifications: Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field; experience in rail infrastructure preferred.
The predicted salary is between 45981 - 56199 £ per year.
The role will work on the HS2 project. HS2 is the UK’s new high-speed rail network. It will be a catalyst for economic growth across Britain, freeing up space on the existing railways and connecting 8 out of the UK’s 10 biggest cities with fast, reliable and frequent high-speed services. Costain+ are delivering the HS2 Rail Systems Tunnel and Lineside Mechanical and Electrical Systems works for HS2, across the whole of the HS2 Route (HRS02).
The scope includes the design, supply, manufacture, installation, testing, commissioning and maintenance (until handover) of the tunnel and lineside M&E systems which includes the tunnel services within the shafts, tunnels and cross-passages, and the low voltage electrical power distribution in the open route. Costain+ will further design, supply, install, test and commission the tunnel ventilation systems.
Responsibilities:
- Support the design, review, and implementation of Mechanical systems for HRS02 HS2 lineside works.
- Interface and coordinate with other HS2 Rail Systems contractors, including track, signalling, telecoms, OHLE, and HV power.
- Review technical documentation, drawings, and specifications.
- Chair discipline specific meetings with HS2 and Costain+ partners.
- Undertake material selection and prepare associated technical approval and acceptance documentation.
- Ensure compliance with relevant standards, including UK rail industry standards and HS2 Works Information.
- Identify, assess, and manage technical risks, supporting effective problem resolution.
- Production of quality documentation, such as ITPs and installation verification check sheets.
- Support assurance, quality, and safety processes throughout the project lifecycle.
- Interface with installation and construction teams to ensure designs are practical, buildable, and aligned with site requirements.
- Provide engineering support during design, installation, testing, and commissioning activities.
Other Responsibilities:
- Work closely with the immediate Engineering team and Costain+ partners to coordinate requirements and programme delivery.
- Liaise with the procurement team to ensure appropriate Mechanical equipment is specified and sourced.
- Maintain close coordination with Design, Safety, Commercial and Planning teams.
- Promote and support the implementation of Costain values and behaviours across the project.
Knowledge, Skills, and Experience:
Essential:
- Previous experience working on rail infrastructure projects in the UK.
- Experience in Mechanical engineering within large-scale infrastructure or rail systems.
- Strong understanding of Mechanical design principles and relevant UK rail industry standards (e.g. Network Rail standards, BS 9990, etc.).
- Good understanding of Tunnel Fire Main/ Tunnel Ventilation / Cross Passage Door design and installation in a rail environment.
- Experience working within a main contractor or major project environment.
- Sound knowledge of Mechanical installation practices and associated equipment.
Desirable:
- Experience working on major UK rail projects (e.g. HS2, Network Rail).
- Knowledge and experience of Acoustics, Fire Stopping, M&E systems, or rail systems integration.
- Familiarity with design and installation of metalwork structures.
- Chartered or working towards professional accreditation (e.g. IEng/CEng).
Mechanical Engineer in London employer: Costain
As a leading employer in traffic management, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture that prioritises safety and efficiency. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through continuous training opportunities and support for professional development, ensuring that our team members thrive in their roles. Located in a vibrant area with access to essential resources, we offer a dynamic environment where your contributions directly impact the success of our projects and the safety of the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Mechanical Engineer in London
✨Get Your Hands Dirty at Engineering Events
Join local engineering meetups or industry conferences related to mechanical engineering. Whether it's a workshop or a career fair, these events are goldmines for networking and getting a foot in the door. Plus, you can showcase your passion and enthusiasm directly to potential employers like Costain.
✨Connect with Professors & Peers
Tap into your university’s resources—professors often have connections in the industry. Don’t be shy to ask about potential openings or recommendations. Your classmates might also know of companies hiring. Often, it’s who you know that gets you in front of the right people!
✨Highlight Your Projects and Practical Experience
When you land those interviews, make sure to talk about your hands-on projects or internships. Whether it's a design project or hands-on experience with CAD software, specific examples will make you stand out. Companies like Costain love to hear about practical applications of your skills.
✨Apply Directly on Company Websites
Check out the careers page of Costain and apply directly through there. It shows initiative and interest in their specific values. Plus, you'll often find openings that aren't advertised on job boards, giving you a better chance to land that full-time gig!
We think you need these skills to ace Mechanical Engineer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Expertise:In mechanical engineering, it’s vital to highlight your technical skills and projects. Make sure to include relevant software proficiency (like CAD tools) in your CV. If you've worked on specific engineering projects, detail your key contributions — we want to see how you’ve applied your skills in a practical setting!
Focus on Problem-Solving Examples:Employers in mechanical engineering love to see how you handle challenges. Use your cover letter to share specific instances where you’ve solved a complex problem or improved a design. This will show us you're not just knowledgeable but also capable of applying that knowledge effectively.
Highlight Relevant Certifications:Include any relevant certifications or training that can set you apart from the competition. Whether it's coursework from your degree, a recognised certification, or extra training in new technologies, we love to see candidates who continuously improve their skill set. This tells us you're serious about your career in engineering!
Tailor Your CV for the Role:Don’t forget to customise your CV for Costain and the Mechanical Engineer role specifically. Pull examples from your experience that align with the job description — it shows us you've done your research and are genuinely interested in becoming part of the team. We recommend applying through our website to ensure your application gets to the right people!
How to prepare for a job interview at Costain
✨Brush Up on Your CAD Skills
Since mechanical engineering often involves design processes, be ready to showcase your proficiency in CAD software like SolidWorks or AutoCAD. Bring along a digital portfolio or even some sketches that demonstrate your design capabilities — it’s a great way to show what you can bring to the table at Costain.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions that test your understanding of engineering principles and problem-solving skills. You might get hypothetical scenarios where you need to design a component or troubleshoot a mechanical system. Practising these types of questions will give you the confidence to tackle whatever comes your way!
✨Show Your Team Spirit
As a full-time mechanical engineer, collaboration is key! Be ready to share examples of past team projects or any experiences where you contributed to solving a complex problem with others. Demonstrating your ability to work in a team will resonate well with the interviewers at Costain.
✨Discuss Your Future Goals
Since this is a full-time position, your long-term vision is important. Be open about your career aspirations, whether it’s mastering a specific tool or leading projects. This shows that you're committed not just to learning but also to growing with Costain, making you a more appealing candidate.
