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- Tasks: Lead the delivery of a major railway depot project and ensure technical excellence.
- Company: Join a key player in the UK's rail infrastructure development.
- Benefits: Long-term career opportunities, competitive salary, and involvement in groundbreaking projects.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of transforming rail systems and making a significant impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in systems engineering and complex infrastructure projects is essential.
- Other info: Collaborate with diverse teams and influence the future of rail operations.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are supporting a nationally significant rail infrastructure programme with the appointment of a Lead Project Engineer to play a central role in the delivery of a major new railway depot at Washwood Heath.
The depot represents one of the largest and most complex rail system facilities delivered in the UK in recent decades, forming a critical operational and testing hub within the wider programme. It is being delivered as a distinct 6–8 year programme of work within a larger infrastructure portfolio, with the principal delivery contract expected to be awarded in spring 2026.
This role is positioned as the single technical point of contact for the successful contractor and will guide the depot through its full lifecycle, from detailed design, through construction, testing and commissioning, and ultimately into operational readiness. The post holder will lead technical assurance, system integration and interface management across multiple railway systems and disciplines, ensuring delivery in line with contractual, statutory and technical requirements.
The depot also sits within a key early test stage of the wider network, with elements of the works brought forward to support system-wide testing and integration. As such, the role has a strong systems engineering focus, requiring a clear understanding of how power, controls, communications, M&E, operational systems and other railway assets mesh together as a coherent whole.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading risk-based technical assurance
- Coordinating interfaces across contracts and disciplines
- Discharging formal CDM 2015 and NEC Supervisor duties
- Managing technical change
- Supporting cost, programme and readiness decisions
The role works closely with commercial, project management and environmental teams, as well as senior engineering leadership.
This opportunity will suit an experienced systems or railway engineer with a strong background in complex infrastructure environments, particularly those comfortable operating across multiple system boundaries rather than within a single technical silo. Experience of large depots, operational facilities or system integration environments is highly relevant, alongside strong stakeholder management and assurance capability.
This is a high-profile role offering long-term programme continuity, exposure to one of the UK’s most complex rail system assets, and the opportunity to influence how a major depot is brought into service.
Lead Project Engineer - Washwood Heath - Rail Systems in Birmingham employer: CPR
Contact Detail:
CPR Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Project Engineer - Washwood Heath - Rail Systems in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals, attend rail system events, and join relevant online forums. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Lead Project Engineer role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Prepare to discuss your experience in systems engineering and complex infrastructure during interviews. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've managed technical assurance and system integration in past projects.
✨Tip Number 3
Research the company and the project! Understand the specifics of the Washwood Heath depot and its significance in the rail industry. This knowledge will help you stand out and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to submit your application directly, ensuring it gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you'll be one step closer to joining us in delivering this exciting rail infrastructure programme.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Project Engineer - Washwood Heath - Rail Systems in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Lead Project Engineer role. Highlight your experience in complex infrastructure projects and systems engineering to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role, focusing on your background in railway systems and your ability to manage technical interfaces.
Showcase Relevant Experience: When detailing your work history, emphasise any roles where you’ve led technical assurance or managed system integration. We want to see how you've tackled challenges similar to those in our project!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Washwood Heath!
How to prepare for a job interview at CPR
✨Know Your Systems Engineering
Make sure you brush up on your systems engineering knowledge, especially how different railway systems integrate. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past experience where you successfully managed complex interfaces or technical assurance.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Management Skills
Prepare to talk about your experience in managing stakeholders across various disciplines. Think of instances where you navigated challenges and how you ensured effective communication between teams. This will demonstrate your ability to lead in a collaborative environment.
✨Understand the Project Lifecycle
Familiarise yourself with the full lifecycle of a project, from design to operational readiness. Be prepared to discuss how you would approach each phase, particularly focusing on risk management and technical change, as these are crucial for the role.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that show your interest in the role and the project. Inquire about the specific challenges they foresee in the depot's development or how they envision the integration of various systems. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also your strategic thinking.
