At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage railway systems projects from construction to entry into service with hands-on support.
- Company: Leading main contractor delivering major HS2 rail systems works in West London.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, flexible working, and a dynamic project environment.
- Other info: Rolling 6-month contract with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Join a pivotal project at a key transition phase and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Rail Systems Project Manager and strong NEC contract management skills.
Are you a Rail Systems Project Manager with experience taking railway systems contracts through construction and into entry into service? Do you have experience working for a main contractor on major railway infrastructure projects and strong NEC contract management experience?
Location: West London - 4 Days Site / 1 Day Home
Rate: £500-£550 per day (Inside IR35 via Umbrella)
Contract: Rolling 6-Month Contract
Start Date: ASAP
This is an opportunity to join a leading main contractor delivering major HS2 rail systems works in West London. The project is now finalising the design and moving into the construction phase, creating a requirement for an experienced Project Manager to support the delivery team through this critical transition.
This is a hands-on, delivery-focused role. The successful candidate will need to be comfortable getting involved in the detail, managing contractual and project controls activities, and supporting the project through construction, testing, commissioning and ultimately entry into service.
Where you will add value:
- Supporting the construction and transition into entry into service.
- Supporting programme management, project controls and monthly reporting.
- Coordinating contractors and systems delivery teams.
- Managing project interfaces across multiple rail systems.
- Supporting construction, testing, commissioning and entry into service.
- Monitoring programme, risk, cost and project performance.
- Working closely with the Head of PMO and wider project team.
- Providing hands-on project management support rather than simply delegating.
To succeed in this role, you will need:
- Previous experience as a Rail Systems Project Manager.
- Main contractor experience within the railway - essential.
- Strong NEC3/NEC contract management experience.
- Proven experience supporting railway infrastructure projects through construction and entry into service.
- Experience working across project controls, programme and contractual management.
Why this contract stands out:
- Major HS2 rail systems project in West London.
- Join at a key point as the project moves into construction.
- Opportunity to manage the project through construction, commissioning and entry into service.
- £500-£550 per day Inside IR35 via Umbrella.
- Rolling 6-Month Contract.
- 4 days site / 1 day working from home.
- Hands-on role within a small, experienced project team.
Rail Systems Project Manager employer: Randstad Cpe London
Randstad Cpe London is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration within the Digital Delivery team. With a strong emphasis on employee growth, the company provides opportunities for professional development while allowing for hybrid working arrangements that promote a healthy work-life balance. Joining Randstad means being part of a forward-thinking organisation that values your contributions to transforming infrastructure through cutting-edge digital technologies.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Rail Systems Project Manager
✨Get Your Foot in the Door
Temporary roles in construction often rely on quick recruitment, so make sure to visit local recruitment agencies that specialise in the construction sector. They usually have a go-to list of companies that need staff urgently, helping us connect with potential employers faster.
✨Leverage Community Connections
Construction is all about connections! Check out local trade events, networking gatherings, or even social media groups focused on your area. Engaging with the community can lead to insider knowledge about temporary job openings that might not be advertised anywhere else.
✨Showcase Your Skills with a Solid Portfolio
Even for temporary gigs, a visual portfolio can really set you apart. Take photos of previous projects you’ve worked on, or if you're fresh in the industry, show examples of your work during training. This can help us demonstrate our hands-on experience to potential employers, like Randstad Cpe London.
✨Apply Directly at Construction Sites
Don’t overlook the power of walking directly into construction sites. Many temporary positions are filled on the spot, so it’s worth popping by local sites and having a face-to-face chat. Bring your CV and be ready to impress, as companies like Randstad Cpe London appreciate proactive candidates ready to jump in when needed.
We think you need these skills to ace Rail Systems Project Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Experience:In the construction game, having hands-on experience matters! Be sure to showcase any previous temporary roles or projects you've worked on in your CV. Mention specific skills like safety protocols, tools you're familiar with, or types of construction work you've done – this will help you stand out!
Showcase Certifications and Training:If you've got any relevant certifications or training like a CSCS card or health and safety courses, flaunt them! Include them in your CV and mention them in your cover letter. It shows that you're not just ready to get to work but that you've got the essential safety knowledge, which is super important in the construction industry.
Emphasise Flexibility and Availability:For a temporary role, flexibility is key! In your cover letter, make sure to clearly state your availability – are you ready to start immediately? Can you work various shifts? Letting Randstad Cpe London know how adaptable you are might just get you the edge over other candidates.
Keep it Concise and Clear:When applying for temporary roles in construction, employers often appreciate brevity. Keep your CV and cover letter clear and to the point. Focus on the skills and experiences that align most with what Randstad Cpe London is looking for. Avoid unnecessary fluff to make it easier for them to see why you’re the perfect fit!
How to prepare for a job interview at Randstad Cpe London
✨Show Off Your Safety Knowledge
In construction, health and safety is non-negotiable. Get comfortable with specific safety regulations like COSHH or Working at Height – you might get asked how you’d handle risk assessments or unsafe conditions. We need to show that we prioritise safety above all else.
✨Be Ready for Hands-On Scenarios
Expect practical questions or even a mini test where you’ll need to demonstrate basic skills. They might set up a scenario and ask how you would approach a specific task. Let’s prepare by brushing up on our trade skills and thinking through past projects we’ve worked on.
✨Flexibility is Key
Since this is a temporary role, they’ll want to know if you can adapt quickly to different teams and situations. Let's think about past experiences where we've had to adjust on the fly. This will show we’re ready to hit the ground running!
✨Highlight Your Previous Experience
Temporary roles often require hitting the ground running, so make sure to have a few stories lined up that showcase your relevant experience in construction. We want to emphasise skills that might not be on our CV—like teamwork and problem-solving when things don't go to plan.
