Principal Mechanical Engineer

Principal Mechanical Engineer – Rolling Stock

Derby (Hybrid)

Up to 75k + Package

Overview

We are seeking an experienced Principal Mechanical Engineer to provide technical leadership across rolling stock mechanical systems, supporting modifications, upgrades, new-build programmes, and consultancy projects within the rail industry. The role requires strong technical expertise, client engagement skills, and the ability to lead multidisciplinary engineering activities in safety-critical environments.

Key Responsibilities

Technical Leadership

• Act as Technical Authority for systems including bogies/running gear, couplers, doors, interiors, HVAC, brakes, structures, and wheelsets.
• Develop and approve engineering strategies, calculations, analyses, and technical documentation.
• Lead modifications, retrofits, upgrades, and testing activities for new and legacy fleets.
• Oversee validation activities including type tests, installation checks, and static/dynamic trials.

Project Delivery & Governance

• Deliver engineering work to agreed time, cost, and quality targets.
• Support bidding and estimating activities, producing accurate and competitive proposals.
• Prepare technical reports, design reviews, safety cases, and assurance documentation.
• Ensure compliance with relevant rail standards and regulations including EN/BS, RIS/GMRT, and TSIs.

Client & Commercial Engagement

• Support consultancy proposals and bid submissions.
• Build strong relationships with clients, suppliers, and industry stakeholders.
• Represent the business at technical meetings and industry forums.
• Identify innovative solutions aligned to client needs.

Leadership & Continuous Improvement

• Mentor and support junior engineers.
• Review and approve technical work.
• Drive continuous improvement in engineering processes and quality standards.
• Maintain awareness of emerging technologies, standards, and industry best practice.

Essential Skills & Experience

• 10+ years’ experience in Rolling Stock Engineering.
• Degree-qualified in Engineering or relevant STEM discipline.
• Chartered Engineer (CEng) or working toward chartership.
• Proven experience delivering projects in safety-critical environments.
• Strong technical report writing, communication, and presentation skills.
• Experience preparing technical proposals and supporting bids.

Desirable Skills

• Experience with UK rolling stock modifications and upgrades.
• Knowledge of RAMS, FMEA, FTA, HAZOP, and safety assurance processes.
• Familiarity with TSIs, RIS/GMRT, ORR interfaces, and approval processes.
• Experience reviewing CAD/PLM and CAE outputs (e.g., CATIA, SolidWorks, ANSYS).
• Understanding of reliability, maintainability, and whole-life cost principles.
• Commercial awareness and leadership experience.