At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead materials engineering for HS2, ensuring compliance and optimal use of materials.
- Company: Join a dynamic team working on the UK's high-speed rail project with Skanska, Costain, and STRABAG.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, professional development support, and a commitment to diversity.
- Other info: Be part of a culture that values safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on a transformative project while developing your career in engineering.
- Qualifications: Degree in Civil, Geotechnical, or Materials Engineering; relevant experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Job location: London. Two Material Lead positions available: 1 x role in Tunnels & Routeway and 1 x role in Shafts & Headhouses.
Working hours: Weekdays. Contract: Permanent. Flexible working: We welcome you to ask about the flexibility you need. This might be part-time, remote working, or compressed hours for example. Anyone who applies for a role can ask about flexibility at interview. In return, we will explore what is possible for the role.
Role: We are seeking an individual to work as a DU Material Lead in close coordination with the Engineering, Delivery, Quality, Environmental and overall Materials Teams. Please note there are two positions available, one will be covering Tunnels & Routeway and one will be covering Shafts & Headhouses.
Main Responsibilities:
- Provide technical support to DU Materials Engineers, Engineering, Delivery and Quality Team with respect to Specifications, Works Information, Inspection and Test Plans, NCR's, FCD's, RFI's, amendments or departures, testing requirements, material performance, optimal use and repair works.
- Responsible for leading and managing Materials Engineering related matters within the DU.
- Direct report to the DU Engineering Lead with functional reporting line to SCS Head of Materials.
- Review test results from trials and site works (site lab or external lab) to ensure compliance with standards and project needs.
- Ensure that materials incorporated into the works meet specification requirements, consider value and that all necessary approvals are obtained, documented and effectively managed.
- Review Handover Packs on behalf of the Engineering Team.
- Carry out surveillances / audits of material suppliers, manufacturers and the works to ensure compliance with specifications, standards and procedures.
- Deliver materials engineering lessons learnt within DU in guidance with Head of Materials.
- Deputise for the Head of Materials / other DU Leads for Materials Engineering aspects when required.
- Provide support / mentorship to Materials or wider project team members as required.
- Attend and contribute to outreach events and supporting industry awareness in consultation with Head of Materials.
- Engage with supply chain and subcontractors with respect to Materials Engineering matters.
- Support Head of Materials with respect to budgeting, forecasting, recruitment etc. providing input from DU.
- Support Materials Engineering innovations and sustainability initiatives within the DU.
- Deliver reporting to both DU and Functional disciplines as required.
- Understand and ensure compliance with Client and JV environmental and sustainability policies and statutory requirements.
The Ideal Candidate:
- Degree qualified in Civil Engineering or Geotechnical Engineering or Materials Engineering.
- Chartered or working towards similar equivalent qualification.
- Relevant experience in similar projects (+10 years preferable).
- Good communication skills, both written and verbally.
- Ability to work individually and as part of a team.
- Reliable with excellent timekeeping.
- A full driving license is essential.
- An industry accredited safety training eg. CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme).
About The Company:
The role will work on the HS2 project. HS2 is the UK’s new high speed rail network. It will be a catalyst for economic growth across Britain, freeing up space on the existing railways and connecting 8 out of the UK’s 10 biggest cities with fast, reliable and frequent high speed services.
The Skanska | Costain | STRABAG (SCS JV) is delivering the HS2 Main Civils Contracts which include both Lots S1 (Euston Tunnels & Approaches) and S2 (Northolt Tunnels). The combined value of the contracts is around £1.8 billion with the works due for completion in 2025. Scope of works includes twin-bored tunnels (TBM), SCL tunnels, shaft sinking, bridge demolition and reconstruction, services diversions, earthworks and the construction of site compounds.
You’ll be a welcomed member of the wider team, with opportunities to take on additional responsibility, join one of our networks for women, military or LGBT+ staff, and participate in cultural and social events with the local community (e.g. as a STEM ambassador). Your personal and professional development is important to us. We welcome a discussion about how we can support you with further study, or professional membership or attainment for example.
HS2 – working with Skanska, Costain and STRABAG, closely monitors job applications, to ensure an inclusive recruitment process. To ensure we are able to maintain this, and to recruit a diverse workforce, we require candidates to complete the diversity form as part of their application so we are able to monitor and improve our approach to diversity. Please note, all responses are anonymous and we will not share any of your data with other parties. All data will be held securely, (as stated within the Data Protection Act 1998) and will be reported to HS2.
It is an SCSJV requirement that all employees, Design House, and Supply Chains must implement and comply with the requirements of ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System, ISO 14001:2015 Environmental Management System with guidance for use, OHSAS 18001:2017 Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems and ISO/IEC 27001:2013 Information Security Management System, Policies, Plans, Procedures, and Processes, and statutory requirements as they affect the Joint Venture’s operations and ensure that the requirements, as applicable within their discipline, are effectively implemented on the project.
Develop a culture of safety on the project through the absolute commitment to the Zero Accidents target and ethos, and develops a wider awareness of quality, environmental issues and demonstrates commitment to achieve continual improvement and Zero tolerance.
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
Materials Lead employer: SCS Railways
As a Materials Lead at our company, you will be part of a dynamic team working on the transformative HS2 project in London, contributing to a high-speed rail network that promises to enhance connectivity across the UK. We pride ourselves on fostering a supportive work culture that values diversity and inclusion, offering flexible working arrangements and ample opportunities for professional development, mentorship, and community engagement. Join us to not only advance your career but also to make a meaningful impact on the future of transportation in Britain.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Materials Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Materials Lead role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and the HS2 project. Understand their values and how your experience aligns with their goals. This will help you stand out and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially those related to materials engineering and project management. Being articulate and confident can make a huge difference in how you’re perceived.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and contributing to the exciting work on HS2.
We think you need these skills to ace Materials Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Materials Lead role. Highlight relevant experience, especially in materials engineering and project management. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for the role and how your background can contribute to our projects. Keep it engaging and personal.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since good communication is key for this role, make sure your application reflects your ability to convey ideas clearly. Whether it's through your CV or cover letter, we want to see your written communication skills in action.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you can find all the details about the role and our company there.
How to prepare for a job interview at SCS Railways
✨Know Your Materials
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of materials engineering, especially in relation to the specific areas of Tunnels & Routeway or Shafts & Headhouses. Be prepared to discuss how you've applied this knowledge in past projects and how it relates to the role.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
This role requires collaboration with various teams, so be ready to share examples of how you've successfully worked in a team environment. Highlight your communication skills and any experience mentoring others, as this will show you're a great fit for their culture.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to specifications, inspection plans, and compliance standards. Review relevant regulations and be ready to discuss how you've ensured compliance in previous roles. This will demonstrate your expertise and readiness for the challenges ahead.
✨Ask About Flexibility
Since the company welcomes discussions about flexible working arrangements, think about what flexibility you might need and prepare to ask about it during the interview. This shows that you're proactive and value work-life balance, which is important to them.