At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex machinery projects from concept to delivery with full technical ownership.
- Company: Join a leading engineering firm in the special purpose machinery sector.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: This is a Principal-level role with excellent career advancement potential.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by shaping technical direction in high-integrity systems.
- Qualifications: Degree in Electrical/Control Engineering and significant senior-level EC&I experience required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Location: Staffordshire based
Working Pattern: Hybrid
Sector: Special Purpose Machinery / Highly Regulated Engineering
We are seeking an experienced Principal EC&I Engineer to take technical ownership of complex special purpose machinery projects. This is a senior, hands-off leadership role suited to someone comfortable operating with autonomy, managing projects from concept through to manufacture, commissioning and handover.
While nuclear or highly regulated industry experience is desirable, we are equally open to senior EC&I professionals from a special purpose machinery background who understand high-integrity systems, safety-critical design and regulated delivery environments.
Key Responsibilities
- Full technical ownership of EC&I work packages for complex machinery systems
- Translate design input requirements into compliant, buildable engineering solutions
- Lead and mentor EC&I engineers and designers across project lifecycles
- Deliver projects to agreed cost, quality and programme constraints
- Produce and approve EC&I deliverables including schematics, calculations, FDS, software documentation, cable schedules and test documentation
- Act as the senior EC&I interface across mechanical, manufacturing, commissioning and client teams
- Ensure compliance with UK H&S legislation and applicable industry standards
- Support manufacturing through to site installation, testing and client handover
- Lead and participate in design reviews, HAZOPs and technical assurance activities
- Manage change control, technical risk and variation identification
Essential Experience & Skills
- Degree qualified in Electrical / Control Engineering (or equivalent experience)
- Significant senior-level EC&I experience within special purpose machinery, automation or complex engineered systems
- Proven ability to run projects independently with minimal supervision
- Experience working in highly regulated environments (nuclear, defence, pharma, oil & gas, etc.)
- Strong knowledge of electrical design, control systems and instrumentation
- Confident technical authority capable of making and defending engineering decisions
- Experience leading engineering teams and interfacing with multiple disciplines
- Nuclear industry exposure
- Chartered Engineer or working towards
- Knowledge of functional safety standards (e.g. IEC 61508)
Why This Role?
This is a true Principal-level position - not a hands-on design support role. You will be trusted to own projects, shape technical direction and deliver high-value engineered solutions with minimal oversight. Ready to take the next step in your career? Apply now and make your impact count!
Principal EC&I Engineer — Lead High‑Integrity Machinery employer: Progressive
As a Principal EC&I Engineer at our Staffordshire location, you will join a forward-thinking company that values innovation and technical excellence in the highly regulated special purpose machinery sector. We foster a collaborative work culture that encourages professional growth through mentorship and leadership opportunities, while also offering a hybrid working pattern to support work-life balance. With a commitment to safety and compliance, you will have the chance to lead impactful projects and shape the future of engineering solutions in a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal EC&I Engineer — Lead High‑Integrity Machinery
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the engineering field, especially those who have experience in special purpose machinery or regulated environments. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, whether at networking events or interviews, be ready to discuss your past projects and how you've tackled challenges in high-integrity systems. This will help you stand out as a confident technical authority.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview like it’s a project review! Research the company’s recent projects and their approach to EC&I work. This way, you can tailor your answers to show how your experience aligns with their needs, especially in safety-critical design.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’re always on the lookout for talented individuals like you. By applying directly, you’ll ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and you might just land that Principal EC&I Engineer role!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal EC&I Engineer — Lead High‑Integrity Machinery
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. Highlight your senior-level EC&I experience and any relevant projects you've led, especially in regulated environments.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this Principal EC&I Engineer role. Share your passion for high-integrity systems and how your background aligns with our needs in special purpose machinery.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:Since this is a senior role, emphasise your experience in leading and mentoring teams. Give examples of how you've successfully managed projects from concept to handover, demonstrating your ability to operate autonomously.
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 to make an impact!
How to prepare for a job interview at Progressive
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your technical knowledge, especially around high-integrity systems and safety-critical design. Be ready to discuss your past projects in detail, showcasing how you've managed complex machinery from concept to delivery.
✨Show Leadership Skills
Since this role involves leading and mentoring engineers, prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Think about specific challenges you faced and how you navigated them while keeping your team motivated and focused.
✨Understand the Industry Standards
Familiarise yourself with relevant industry standards, particularly those related to electrical design and control systems. Be prepared to discuss how you've ensured compliance in previous roles, especially in regulated environments like nuclear or defence.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that show your interest in the company and the role. Inquire about their approach to project management, team dynamics, and how they handle technical risks. This not only demonstrates your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.
