At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and delivery of training programmes for engineers globally.
- Company: Join the Vehicle Certification Agency, a key player in vehicle safety and certification.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 25+ days annual leave, and a generous pension contribution.
- Other info: Access to professional qualifications and a diverse, inclusive workplace.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by mentoring engineers and enhancing their skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Mid-senior level experience in engineering and a passion for training and development.
The predicted salary is between 44000 - 50000 £ per year.
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Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA) provided pay range
This range is provided by Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA). Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.
Base pay range
Salary: £44,198 - Starting Salary of £44,198 - £50,321 with an additional engineering skills allowance of £4,500 increasing to £9,000 after 3 years.
Contract Type: Permanent – Flexible working, Full-time, Job share, Part-time
As a Principal Engineer (Training), you will lead the design, delivery, and continuous improvement of training programmes for engineers across the global organisation. You will oversee competence assessments, support professional development, and ensure that our engineering teams are equipped with the knowledge and skills to deliver high-quality certification services.
In addition to your training responsibilities, you will act as the technical lead for assigned vehicle categories and customers—for example, as the O1/O2 Technical Lead—delivering type approval testing and witnessing. These activities will also serve as valuable opportunities to provide hands-on training and mentoring to engineers in real-world certification scenarios.
Key Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Design, Deliver, and Maintain Training Programmes
- Develop and deliver high-quality training materials and sessions—both in-person and remotely—for UK and overseas teams. Coordinate training requests, manage the training budget, and ensure content is aligned with operational needs and technical standards.
- Lead and Develop a Skilled and Competent Engineering Workforce
- Oversee the training and competence of Type Approval Engineers and Technical Support Officers across multiple grades (EO to SEO). Conduct initial and ongoing assessments, provide structured feedback, and support professional development through mentoring, coaching, and tailored learning plans.
- Employer pension contribution of 28.97% of your salary. Read more about Civil Service Pensions here
- 25 days annual leave, increasing by 1 day each year of service (up to a maximum of 30 days annual leave).
- 8 Bank Holidays plus an additional Privilege Day to mark the King’s birthday.
- Access to the staff discount portal.
- Excellent career development opportunities and the ability to undertake professional qualifications relevant to your role paid for by the department, such as CIPD, Prince2, apprenticeships, etc.
- Joining a diverse and inclusive workforce with a range of staff communities to support all our colleagues.
- 24-hour Employee Assistance Programme providing free confidential help and advice for staff.
- Flexible working options where we encourage a great work-life balance.
How to Apply
Read the full job description and apply here
Apply before 11:55 pm on Sunday 17th August 2025
Seniority level
Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
Employment type
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
Job function
Engineering and Quality AssuranceIndustries
Government Administration
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#J-18808-LjbffrPrincipal Engineer (Training) in Nuneaton employer: Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
The Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA) is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment in Nuneaton, where you can thrive as a Principal Engineer (Training). With a generous pension contribution, flexible working options, and a commitment to professional development through funded qualifications, VCA prioritises employee growth and well-being. Join a diverse team dedicated to delivering high-quality certification services while enjoying a healthy work-life balance and numerous career advancement opportunities.
Contact Details:
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Engineer (Training) in Nuneaton
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in engineering training and certification. This will not only help you understand the role better but also allow you to discuss relevant topics during interviews, showcasing your knowledge and enthusiasm for the position.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of the Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA) on platforms like LinkedIn. Engaging with them can provide you with insider insights about the company culture and expectations, which can be invaluable during your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to demonstrate your leadership and mentoring skills through real-life examples. Since the role involves overseeing training programmes and developing engineers, having specific instances ready where you've successfully led a team or mentored someone will strengthen your candidacy.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the specific vehicle categories and technical standards relevant to the VCA. Being knowledgeable about these areas will not only impress your interviewers but also show that you're proactive and genuinely interested in the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Engineer (Training) in Nuneaton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Principal Engineer (Training) at the Vehicle Certification Agency. Familiarise yourself with their training programmes and the skills required to lead and develop engineering teams.
Tailor Your CV:Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in training, mentoring, and engineering. Emphasise any previous roles where you've designed or delivered training programmes, as well as your technical expertise in vehicle categories.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for engineering and training. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully developed training materials or led teams, and explain why you're excited about the opportunity at VCA.
Highlight Continuous Improvement:In your application, discuss your commitment to continuous improvement in training and development. Provide examples of how you've implemented feedback mechanisms or adapted training content to meet evolving needs in previous roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you have a clear understanding of the Principal Engineer (Training) role. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities, especially around designing and delivering training programmes. This will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Showcase Your Training Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous experience in developing training materials and conducting assessments. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully led training initiatives or mentored engineers, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Demonstrate Technical Knowledge
As a technical lead, you'll need to showcase your expertise in vehicle categories and type approval testing. Brush up on relevant technical standards and be ready to discuss how you've applied this knowledge in real-world scenarios.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company's training culture and how they measure the success of their training programmes. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
