Principal Communications Engineer

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.

Essential 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 Skills

• Experience with AutoCAD, MicroStation, and Revit (or equivalent BIM platforms).
• Previous experience within M&E contractors.
• Previous experience as a CEM (Contractors Engineering Manager).

Essential 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 Qualifications

• Master's degree in Engineering.
• Project Management qualifications (APM, PRINCE2, etc.).
• HSE training (NEBOSH Construction Certificate, SMSTS).

Essential 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.

Desired Competencies

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

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