At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and integration of advanced control systems for the HS2 programme.
- Company: Join a pioneering engineering team focused on rail and mega-infrastructure projects.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, flexible working arrangements, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic, multidisciplinary environment driving innovation in critical infrastructure.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact on the future of British transport while mentoring a talented team.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in industrial controls with a degree in Control Systems or related field.
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.
Sector: Rail & Mega-Infrastructure
Focus: PLC/SCADA architectures, Tunnel Ventilation Control Systems (TVCS), Station Control Systems, and industrial cyber security.
Multidisciplinary, digital-first engineering environment requiring elite systems integration.
- 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.
- 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.
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.
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.
Direct experience on HS2, Network Rail, London Underground, or Crossrail.
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.
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 Machines 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. With a strong focus on employee development, you will have access to mentorship opportunities and the chance to lead groundbreaking projects like HS2, all within a collaborative and dynamic work culture. Our commitment to a digital-first approach ensures that you will be at the forefront of advanced control and automation solutions, making a meaningful impact on the future of British transport.
