Associate – Rail Safety, Systems Assurance & Risk
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Hybrid Working | London, Manchester, Leeds, Bristol or NottinghamOutstanding Salary + Market-Leading Benefits
Lead Safety & Risk on the Rail Programmes Defining the Next Generation of Transport
An internationally respected engineering and advisory organisation is seeking a senior Rail Safety & Risk specialist to play a leading role in the delivery of major transportation and infrastructure programmes across the UK and Europe.This opportunity is ideal for an experienced consultant or technical leader with deep expertise in rail systems assurance, operational risk, and complex infrastructure delivery – someone who thrives on solving challenging technical problems while influencing strategic outcomes at programme level.You will join a high-performing multidisciplinary practice recognised for delivering complex, high-profile projects across mobility, infrastructure, sustainability, and digital transformation sectors.
The Role
You will provide leadership across rail system safety, assurance, and risk management activities throughout the full project and asset lifecycle – from early concept and strategic planning through to operational change, integration, upgrade, and ongoing assurance.The role combines technical authority, client leadership, commercial awareness, and team development. You will guide clients through both established regulatory environments and emerging technology challenges, balancing rigorous compliance with pragmatic engineering judgement.The work spans a wide range of rail and transport systems, including:Digital signalling and train control technologiesMajor rail infrastructure and operational systemsCommunications and control networksRolling stock integration and modificationOperational readiness, maintenance, and system changeCross-disciplinary and system-of-systems assurance
You will also support programmes involving evolving technologies and future mobility concepts, including:Digital and data-enabled railway systemsAutomation and advanced operational support technologiesLow-carbon and alternative traction strategiesClimate resilience and infrastructure adaptationNovel operational models and emerging transport architectures
What You’ll Be Doing
Technical Leadership
Direct delivery of complex rail safety and assurance programmesLead development of safety cases, assurance strategies, and hazard management activitiesApply advanced safety engineering methodologies including HAZID, HAZOP, FMECA, FTA, and structured risk analysis techniquesProvide technical oversight on projects involving significant operational, regulatory, or technological complexityCoordinate engagement with independent assurance bodies and regulatory stakeholders
Client & Programme Leadership
Build trusted relationships with senior client teams and delivery partnersAdvise on safety strategy, programme risk, and assurance planningSupport informed decision-making within technically complex or uncertain environmentsHelp shape innovative yet proportionate approaches to assurance and compliance
Commercial & Strategic Contribution
Support business growth through bids, proposals, and strategic client engagementContribute to resource planning and commercial performance across projectsHelp expand capability in rail systems assurance and operational risk management
Team & Capability Development
Mentor and coach technical specialists and developing consultantsEncourage innovation, collaboration, and knowledge sharingSupport recruitment and long-term capability growth within the practice
About You
You will be an established rail safety professional with strong technical credibility and the ability to lead confidently within multidisciplinary project environments.
Likely Background & Experience:
Chartered Engineer status (or equivalent) with membership of a recognised professional institution such as the Institution of Engineering and Technology, Institution of Mechanical Engineers, or Safety and Reliability SocietyDegree-qualified in engineering, science, mathematics, or a related disciplineStrong track record delivering rail safety assurance and systems risk programmesExperience developing safety justifications and lifecycle assurance strategiesStrong understanding of UK and European rail assurance frameworks and standardsExperience working with independent assessors, assurance bodies, and evidence-based compliance activitiesExcellent stakeholder engagement and workshop facilitation skillsTechnical expertise within signalling, digital railway, telecoms, infrastructure, rolling stock, operational safety, or systems integration
Additional European language capability would be beneficial but is not essential.
Why This Opportunity?
This organisation is widely recognised for tackling technically demanding and socially significant infrastructure challenges. Their teams are known for combining engineering excellence with forward-thinking advisory capability across major transportation programmes worldwide.You’ll benefit from:Exposure to nationally significant and internationally recognised projectsA highly collaborative and technically respected environmentGenuine influence over complex infrastructure outcomesLong-term career progression within a global consultancy platformFlexible hybrid working and an excellent overall package
Interested?
If you are looking for a senior-level opportunity where you can influence the future of rail safety, systems assurance, and infrastructure resilience within a world-class consultancy environment, we would be pleased to discuss the role confidentially.
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