Signalling Design CRE (Contractor’s Responsible Engineer)

Location: Manchester
Employment Type: Contract - 12 months - OUTSIDE IR35

Role Overview

We are seeking a highly experienced Signalling Design CRE to oversee the GRIP 5-8 design and implementation of signalling systems for a major rail infrastructure project. You will ensure all design deliverables comply with relevant railway standards and provide technical leadership to the signalling design team, including subcontractors and external stakeholders.

This role is critical in ensuring engineering assurance, safety compliance, and successful delivery of signalling designs from feasibility through to detailed design and post-installation support.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the signalling design process, ensuring compliance with project specifications and railway standards.
• Act as the primary point of contact for signalling design within multi-disciplinary teams.
• Review and approve design deliverables, ensuring quality and alignment with client requirements.
• Coordinate with project managers, CEMs, and stakeholders to resolve design issues and manage risks.
• Provide technical guidance and mentoring to the signalling design team.
• Support hazard identification workshops and risk assessments.
• Ensure engineering assurance and safety compliance throughout the design lifecycle.
• Manage design documentation.
• Produce and verify signalling design deliverables.
• Support post-design activities including As-Built documentation and client clarifications.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• IRSE Licences:

  • 1.1.550 Signalling Principles Designer (required)
  • 1.1.160 Signalling Design Verifier (required)
  • 7.8.110E Engineering Manager – Design (preferred or working towards)

• Minimum 5 years of experience in a senior signalling assurance role or leading signalling design teams.

• Proven experience delivering signalling designs across all GRIP/PACE stages.

• Strong knowledge of Network Rail standards, RSSB, BS/EN standards.

• Familiarity with interlocking systems (e.g., RRI, SSI, Smartlock, Westlock).

• Proficient in signalling design software and CAD tools.

• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

• Prior experience with ETCS preferable.