At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead engineering and maintenance strategies for the UK's largest tram network.
- Company: Join TfGM, a key player in Greater Manchester's public transport revolution.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team focused on innovation and sustainability.
- Why this job: Shape the future of public transport while ensuring safety and reliability.
- Qualifications: Senior engineering leadership experience in rail or tram systems required.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
For the purpose of the expected award in Manchester for the project detailed below, we are looking for expression of interest for the position of Engineering Director.
The TfGM Metrolink is the largest tram network in the UK and a central component of the Bee Network, supporting Greater Manchester’s ambition to deliver an integrated, high-performing public transport system.
- 103 km network across 8 lines
- 99 stops/stations
- 46 million passenger journeys annually
- Approximately 871 employees
- 147 trams (Bombardier M5000)
- 2 depots and 2 control centres
Operations:
- Combination of segregated and street-running tram operations
- Line-of-sight driving with signalling at junctions
- Operational hours: approx. 05:30 – 00:30/01:30
- Peak frequency: 6 minutes (Mon–Sat), reduced on Sundays
Infrastructure & Systems:
- 750V DC overhead line electrification
- Ticket vending machines, passenger information displays, and CCTV at all stops
- Network Management Centre and Disaster Recovery Centre
Contract Overview:
- 10-year contract (7+3 structure)
- Scope includes Operations, Maintenance, and Renewals
Strategic Context (TfGM Objectives):
- Deliver high and consistent customer satisfaction
- Maintain safe and secure operations for passengers and staff
- Put people first through workforce engagement and capability development
- Maintain and grow the network through performance and asset management
- Ensure long-term sustainability across financial, environmental, and operational dimensions
Growth & Investment:
- Network growth from 31.5 km (1992) to 103 km today
- Planned enhancements including new stops, fleet upgrades, control systems, and extensions
Your role as an Engineering Director:
Lead engineering, asset management, and maintenance strategy to ensure a safe, reliable, and high-performing tram network aligned with TfGM requirements and Bee Network integration.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and deliver asset management and maintenance strategies aligned with TfGM objectives
- Ensure reliability and performance of infrastructure and fleet, including ageing assets
- Lead engineering and maintenance teams across depots and network
- Implement data-driven maintenance, renewals, and lifecycle planning
- Ensure compliance with safety, regulatory, and engineering assurance standards
- Support delivery of TfGM investment and enhancement programmes
- Contribute to network performance, sustainability, and efficiency improvements
- Support integration with wider Bee Network systems and standards
Coaching & Mentoring:
- Develop engineering and technical capability within the existing workforce
- Mentor managers in modern asset management, reliability engineering, and continuous improvement
- Promote knowledge transfer and adoption of new tools, technologies, and practices
Key Performance Indicators & Success Measures:
- Delivery of contractual KPIs across safety, reliability, and customer satisfaction
- Achievement of TfGM performance targets and contribution to Bee Network outcomes
- Successful mobilisation delivered on time and within agreed parameters (where applicable)
- Measurable improvement in operational performance and efficiency
- Positive workforce engagement and retention metrics
- Demonstrable improvement in capability and performance of existing teams
- Strong stakeholder satisfaction (TfGM and partners)
Candidate Profile:
- Senior engineering leadership experience in rail, tram, or light rail systems
- Strong expertise in asset management, maintenance optimisation, and safety assurance
- Experience delivering fleet upgrades, renewals, and infrastructure improvements
- Ability to lead change and develop engineering capability within established teams
Engineering and Maintenance Director in Manchester employer: Transdev
Transdev UK is an excellent employer for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the transport sector. Based in Manchester, you will benefit from a collaborative work culture that encourages innovation and professional growth, while being part of an international group that values local operations. With opportunities for development and a focus on winning tenders, this role offers a rewarding career path in a dynamic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Engineering and Maintenance Director in Manchester
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Engineering and Maintenance Director role you’re after at Transdev.
✨Show Off Your Projects!
Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at Transdev a taste of what you can bring to the table!
✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at Transdev.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Engineering and Maintenance Director at Transdev, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.
We think you need these skills to ace Engineering and Maintenance Director in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Engineering and Maintenance Director, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at Transdev a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to Transdev specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Transdev
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with Transdev, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like Transdev want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
