Principal Communications Engineer

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 Alternatively if you know anyone who might be interested in this job opportunity, please send over for a referral fee.

 

 

Tagged as: cad technician, chartered engineer, communications engineer, principal electrical engineer