At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and integration of advanced control systems for the HS2 programme.
- Company: Join a pioneering engineering team transforming British transport.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, flexible working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a high-performing, multidisciplinary environment with career-defining projects.
- Why this job: Shape the future of rail infrastructure while mentoring a dynamic engineering team.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in controls engineering with strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Principal Controls Engineer to join our Rail & Infrastructure Engineering team. In this senior leadership role, you will hold technical authority over the design, development, and system integration of advanced control and automation solutions for the landmark HS2 programme. Operating within a high-performing, multidisciplinary MEICA environment, you will bridge the gap between complex software/automation architectures and critical physical infrastructure—ensuring station, tunnel, and operational facilities are safe, resilient, and fully integrated.
Role Overview
- Position: Principal Controls Engineer
- Sector: Rail & Mega-Infrastructure
- Focus: PLC/SCADA architectures, Tunnel Ventilation Control Systems (TVCS), Station Control Systems, and industrial cyber security.
- Environment: Multidisciplinary, digital-first engineering environment requiring elite systems integration.
Key Responsibilities
- Technical Authority & Design Leadership: Act as the lead technical voice for controls, automation, SCADA, and telemetry systems across major HS2 packages. Lead the design of control philosophies, functional design specifications, cause-and-effect matrices, and complex network topologies. Establish engineering standards and mentor a growing team of Controls and Design Engineers.
- Complex Systems Integration: Mastermind interfaces between control systems and mechanical, electrical distribution, fire & life safety, and asset management platforms. Ensure seamless, secure integration of third-party systems and advanced networked industrial communications.
- Assurance & Commissioning: Drive rigorous design assurance, managing compliance with HS2 Technical Standards, functional safety (SIL), and IEC 62443 industrial cyber security. Lead testing strategies, witnessing Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT) and Site Acceptance Tests (SAT) through to dynamic commissioning and final handover.
Who We Are Looking For
Essential Criteria
- Education: Degree in Control Systems Engineering, Electrical/Automation Engineering, or a related discipline.
- Experience: Minimum 10+ years in industrial controls, SCADA, or systems engineering—ideally within rail, major utilities, or critical infrastructure.
- Technical Breadth: Deep knowledge of PLC/SCADA principles, control panel design, instrumentation, and functional safety concepts.
- Leadership Capability: Proven track record of managing multidisciplinary interfaces and navigating rigorous engineering governance.
Desirable Extras
- Direct experience on HS2, Network Rail, London Underground, or Crossrail.
- Chartered Engineer (CEng) status or actively working toward it.
- Technical familiarity with enterprise platforms: Siemens (TIA Portal/WinCC), Schneider EcoStruxure, Rockwell, or AVEVA/Wonderware.
- Solid understanding of IEC 61508 / 61511 (Functional Safety).
Why Take This Step?
This is a career-defining position where you won’t just follow industry standards—you will set them. You will lead cutting-edge, resilient engineering solutions on a multi-billion-pound programme that is redefining British transport, all while mentoring an ambitious engineering team and expanding your professional legacy.
Apply Today
If you are a visionary automation professional ready to lead world-class infrastructure delivery, we want to hear from you. Apply directly via LinkedIn or reach out to our talent acquisition team for a confidential career discussion.
Principal Controls Engineer in City of London employer: Mane Contract Services
Join a forward-thinking engineering firm that champions innovation and excellence in the Rail & Infrastructure sector. As a Principal Controls Engineer, you will thrive in a dynamic, multidisciplinary environment in London, where your expertise will directly contribute to the landmark HS2 programme. With a strong emphasis on employee development, collaborative work culture, and the opportunity to lead cutting-edge projects, this role offers a unique chance to shape the future of British transport while advancing your career.
