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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead engineering teams on exciting rail and infrastructure projects, from design to installation.
- Company: Join a major consultancy shaping the future of Rail, Highways, Power, and Tunnels.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, career growth opportunities, and a dynamic work environment.
- Why this job: Be part of innovative projects that make a real impact on communities and infrastructure.
- Qualifications: Requires HND in Engineering, Chartered Engineer status, and 7 years in a senior role.
- Other info: Flexible working options available; perfect for those who thrive in a collaborative setting.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 84000 £ per year.
Job Description
Our Client, a major Rail, Highways, Power and Tunnels consultancy are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Controls and Communications Engineer (CRE) to provide engineering leadership across the full project lifecycle-from tendering and design through to installation, testing, commissioning, and handover. You will manage Controls and Communications installations across projects, ensuring delivery in line with HSE, programme, quality, compliance, and commercial requirements. You will act as the Communications Responsible Engineer (CRE) on Network Rail Projects and lead multidisciplinary teams, driving engineering excellence.
Key Responsibilities: Act as the Communications CRE on Network Rail projects. Supervise multidisciplinary engineering teams including engineers, specialists, and BIM/CAD technicians. Deliver proficient designs across Control Systems (DCS, SCADA, PLC, BMS) and Telecommunications (PAVA, FTN, GSM-R, CCTV, VOIP, RF Radio, etc.). Conduct formal design reviews (CAT2 checks) to ensure safety, buildability, and compliance. Undertake HAZID, HAZOP, and HAZCON studies where applicable. Manage and maintain design documentation: design registers, drawing registers, RFIs, TQs, MARs, and EWNs. Direct liaison with BIM/CAD teams for clash detection and design coordination. Attend and oversee FATs, SATs, and other compliance stages. Collaborate with installation teams to ensure practical and efficient design implementation. Support commercial teams in tracking design changes and valuing work. Engage with planning departments to schedule design, installation, and T&C activities. Manage subcontractor design and installation packages.Maintain quality and ensure compliance with VVB and client standards.Skills and Experience: Expertise in Controls and Communications engineering design and delivery. Knowledge of electrical installation regulations, BIM, and design modelling standards. Proficient use of design tools (Amtech/Trimble, Cymap). Advanced skills in MS Office, particularly Excel. Experience acting as a Network Rail CRE. Seven years' experience in a Senior/Principal Electrical Engineering role. Strong understanding of NR 02009, Network Rail and London Underground communications standards.Familiarity with HAZID/HAZOP/HAZCON methodologies.Desirable: Experience with AutoCAD, MicroStation, and Revit (or equivalent BIM platforms). Previous experience within M&E contractors. Previous experience as a CEM (Contractors Engineering Manager).Qualifications: HND in a relevant Engineering discipline. Chartered Engineer (CEng) registration. Membership of a recognised institution (CIBSE/IET). Valid CSCS Card (AQP or PQP minimum). Full UK driver's license.Desired: Master's degree in Engineering. Project Management qualifications (APM, PRINCE2, etc.). HSE training (NEBOSH Construction Certificate, SMSTS).Competencies: Strong leadership and people management skills. Excellent verbal and written communication. Collaborative and decisive approach under pressure. Flexible, motivated, and adaptable in a dynamic environment. Ability to balance client and business needs effectively. Forward-thinking, innovative mindset.If you are interested in this job, please send over your cv and get in touch with Jamie at Unity Recruitment. Alternatively if you know anyone who might be interested in this job opportunity, please send over for a referral fee.
Principal Communications Engineer employer: Unity Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Unity Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Communications Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the rail and communications sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with people who can provide insights or even refer you to opportunities at StudySmarter.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest technologies and standards in Controls and Communications engineering. Being well-versed in tools like Amtech/Trimble and understanding Network Rail standards will give you an edge during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with multidisciplinary teams and project management. Highlight specific examples where you've led teams or managed complex projects, as this is crucial for the Principal Communications Engineer role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research StudySmarter's values and recent projects. Tailoring your conversation to align with our mission and demonstrating how your skills can contribute to our goals will make a strong impression during the interview process.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Communications Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in Controls and Communications engineering. Emphasise your leadership roles, particularly any experience as a Communications Responsible Engineer (CRE) on Network Rail projects.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of the key responsibilities outlined in the job description. Mention specific projects where you've demonstrated your ability to manage multidisciplinary teams and ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly list your qualifications, including your HND in Engineering, Chartered Engineer status, and any project management certifications. If you have experience with HAZID/HAZOP methodologies or BIM tools, make sure to include that as well.
Showcase Soft Skills: In your application, highlight your leadership, communication, and collaborative skills. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed teams under pressure and balanced client needs with business objectives.
How to prepare for a job interview at Unity Recruitment
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
As a Principal Communications Engineer, it's crucial to demonstrate your deep understanding of Controls and Communications engineering. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've successfully implemented systems like DCS, SCADA, or telecommunications solutions. Highlight your experience with design tools and methodologies relevant to the role.
✨Emphasise Leadership Skills
This role requires strong leadership and people management abilities. Share examples of how you've led multidisciplinary teams in past projects, focusing on your approach to driving engineering excellence and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to HAZID, HAZOP, and HAZCON studies, as well as electrical installation regulations. Brush up on these topics and be ready to explain how you've applied them in your previous roles, particularly in relation to Network Rail projects.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
In this dynamic environment, showcasing your ability to balance client needs with business requirements is key. Prepare to discuss challenges you've faced in project delivery and how you approached problem-solving, particularly in high-pressure situations.
