Principal Communications Engineer in Slough

VVB delivers sustainable mechanical, electrical and telecommunication engineering solutions with expertise and long-standing experience across Rail, Highways, Power, and Tunnels. Combining robust processes with specialist agility, our approach to projects always takes into account the best interests of our clients, our people and our environment.

At VVB, our CORE values shape our behaviour and are apparent in everything we do. Not only are these values central to the entire VVB ethos, but each letter also represents a pillar of our company vision:

• C – Care & Collaboration
• O – Opportunity & Ownership
• R – Responsibility & Respect
• E – Excellence & End Result Focus

About the Role: We are seeking a 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 Contractors Responsible Engineer (CRE) on Network Rail projects and lead multidisciplinary teams, driving engineering excellence while supporting business growth.

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.

Line Management Duties:

• Manage and develop the Controls and Communications Engineering and Design teams.
• Lead team allocation, workload management, and mentoring.
• Deliver technical training and skills development programmes.

Skills and Experience:

Essential:

• 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:

Essential:

• 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:

Essential:

• 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.

Desired:

• Commercial and contractual awareness.
• Ability to mentor apprentices, graduates, and engineers.
• Capability to educate and guide internal stakeholders on technical matters.

Diversity and Inclusion: VVB is committed to building an inclusive and diverse workplace where all individuals are valued, respected, and supported. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, and we celebrate the diversity of our people.