At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive innovation in automation and emerging tech for rail maintenance.
- Company: Network Rail, a leader in transport innovation and sustainability.
- Benefits: Hybrid work, potential for permanent role, and diverse workplace culture.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team with opportunities for growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on safety and efficiency in the rail industry.
- Qualifications: Experience in technology, automation, and a passion for innovation.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 € per year.
On behalf of Network Rail, we are looking for a Senior Technology Engineer (Innovation / AI / Drones) for a 6 month contract based in Stratford, London (hybrid, minimum 2 days per week onsite).
Role Overview
This is a 6-month contract (with strong potential to convert to a permanent role), reporting into the Head of Innovation – Network Rail High Speed (HS1). The role will play a key part in driving the innovation agenda across the HS1 asset base, with a focus on reducing manual maintenance activity and introducing automation and emerging technologies to improve safety, efficiency, and sustainability.
As a Senior Technology Engineer, your main responsibilities will be to:
- Drive automation of manual inspection and maintenance activities
- Support delivery of efficiency and performance targets across HS1
- Translate emerging technologies into scalable operational solutions
- Contribute to innovation‑led transformation within asset management and maintenance
- Lead innovation projects from concept through to deployment
Core Projects / Areas of Focus
- Deployment of cameras on passenger and engineering trains
- Use of tools such as One Big Circle / AiVR for automated visual track inspections or Transmission Dynamics for OLE inspections.
Data & Analysis
- Monitoring infrastructure behaviour (e.g. pantograph/OLE interaction and track performance) using software and machine learning techniques
- Supporting data‑led maintenance decisions
- Inspection of hard‑to‑reach assets (e.g. ventilation shafts, steep embankments)
- Environmental monitoring and reporting
- Potential use cases such as vegetation management
- Supporting a range of smaller R&D and digital transformation projects
Experience delivering or deploying new technologies or innovation projects
- Exposure to drones and/or remote condition monitoring solutions
- Strong technical/technology mindset (software/systems understanding)
- Ability to operate autonomously and engage senior stakeholders
- Understanding of working in a regulated engineering environment
- Rail industry experience (engineering / asset management)
- Experience with One Big Circle / AiVR or Transmission Dynamics
- Exposure to digital inspection, AI or automation technologies
Please be aware that this role can only be worked within the UK and not Overseas. 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.
In exceptional circumstances, we may also need to apply the desirable criteria in our shortlisting process which may include holding active security clearance. 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 exceptional circumstances, we may also need to apply the desirable criteria in our shortlisting process which may include holding active security clearance.
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.
Senior Technology Engineer (Innovation / AI / Drones) employer: Great British Energy Group
Network Rail is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Stratford, London, where innovation meets engineering excellence. With a strong commitment to employee growth and diversity, the company fosters a culture of collaboration and creativity, providing opportunities to work on cutting-edge projects in automation and AI. Employees benefit from a hybrid working model, competitive remuneration, and the chance to contribute to sustainable practices within the rail industry, making it a rewarding place for those passionate about technology and innovation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Technology Engineer (Innovation / AI / Drones)
✨Tip Number 1
Network with industry professionals! Attend events, webinars, or meetups related to AI, drones, and innovation in engineering. This is a great way to get your name out there and learn about potential job openings before they even hit the market.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your skills through personal projects or contributions to open-source initiatives. If you’ve worked on automation or AI projects, make sure to highlight them in conversations. This hands-on experience can really set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching Network Rail and their innovation agenda. Understand their current projects and think about how your experience with drones and automation can contribute to their goals. Tailoring your responses to their needs will make a big impact!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’re all about making connections and helping you land that dream role. Plus, it’s a straightforward way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Technology Engineer (Innovation / AI / Drones)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Technology Engineer role. Highlight your experience with automation, AI, and drones, as well as any relevant projects you've led. We want to see how your skills align with our innovation agenda!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about driving innovation in the rail industry. Share specific examples of how you've contributed to similar projects in the past, and let us know why you’re excited about this opportunity.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Don’t forget to highlight your technical mindset! Mention any software or systems you’ve worked with, especially those related to data analysis or machine learning. We’re looking for someone who can translate emerging technologies into operational solutions, so make that clear!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Great British Energy Group
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest technologies related to automation, AI, and drones. Brush up on tools like One Big Circle and AiVR, as well as any relevant software or machine learning techniques. Being able to discuss these confidently will show your technical prowess.
✨Showcase Your Innovation Mindset
Prepare examples of how you've driven innovation in past roles. Think about specific projects where you introduced new technologies or improved processes. This will demonstrate your ability to contribute to Network Rail's innovation agenda effectively.
✨Understand the Industry Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the rail industry, especially regarding asset management and maintenance. Knowing the challenges and opportunities in this sector will help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Be ready to talk about your experience working with senior stakeholders. Highlight how you’ve communicated complex technical concepts to non-technical audiences, as this is crucial for a role that involves leading innovation projects.
