Senior Civil Design Engineer

Alva Rail; York and North Yorkshire; Hybrid; GBP 42,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading rail infrastructure provider is seeking an experienced Senior Civil Design Engineer to lead the design of complex rail projects. This role, based in York, offers opportunities for career progression and mentorship. You will manage multidisciplinary projects, ensuring compliance with standards while driving innovation and sustainability in design. Competitive salary up to £52,000 and flexible working options available.

Benefits

Flexible Working

Hybrid Working Model

36 days holiday (including bank holidays)

Gym membership

Generous bonus structure

Group Life Assurance

Overtime and weekend pay

Qualifications

• Degree-qualified in Civil Engineering with chartered or incorporated status.
• Proven experience in civil engineering designs on rail or major infrastructure projects at a senior level.
• Solid understanding of health, safety, and environmental design considerations.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage civil design of multi-disciplinary rail infrastructure projects.
• Oversee preparation of designs complying with Network Rail standards.
• Conduct design risk assessments and feasibility studies.

Skills

Leadership in civil engineering

Communication skills

Stakeholder management

Mentoring junior engineers

Proficiency in MicroStation

Proficiency in AutoCAD

Understanding of Network Rail standards

Education

Degree in Civil Engineering

Tools

MicroStation

AutoCAD

Civil 3D

Bentley OpenRail/OpenRoads

Job description

Join the fastest-growing rail group in the UK – a dynamic and forward-thinking company committed to delivering excellence in rail infrastructure. Due to ambitious growth plans and continued project success, we are seeking an experienced Senior Civil Design Engineer to play a key leadership role in the development and delivery of complex rail infrastructure design projects.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a collaborative and highly skilled team focused on safety, efficiency, and innovation. With a strong and evolving project pipeline, you will take on a meaningful workload, contribute to industry‑leading engineering solutions, and mentor the next generation of engineers. Whether you’re looking to enhance your technical leadership or work on nationally significant rail schemes, this role provides the perfect platform for senior career progression in a dynamic, modern environment.

About the Company

Our client delivers top‑tier rail infrastructure solutions, managing a diverse portfolio of projects that support the growth and maintenance of the UK’s vital railway systems. With a focus on collaboration, safety, and quality, the team works closely with partners across the industry to ensure seamless project execution. Operating from a newly refurbished office and supported by a diverse, growing team, the company has evolved into a full lifecycle solutions provider across the rail sector over the last five years. They are committed to continuous learning, with a strong focus on professional development and structured career advancement.

Senior Civil Design Engineer

£42,000 – £52,000 pa basic

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the civil design of multi-disciplinary rail infrastructure projects, including earthworks, bridges, stations, drainage systems, retaining walls, culverts, and tunnels.
• Oversee the preparation of conceptual, preliminary, and detailed designs in compliance with Network Rail standards, Eurocodes, and relevant industry legislation.
• Take responsibility for technical quality, coordination, and delivery of civil design packages.
• Conduct and review design risk assessments, feasibility studies, and value engineering exercises.
• Produce and review technical reports, calculations, and specifications.
• Provide technical leadership and guidance to junior engineers, supporting their development and reviewing their work.
• Interface with internal and external stakeholders including project managers, contractors, and clients to ensure designs are delivered efficiently and effectively.
• Participate in and lead design reviews, audits, and assurance processes.
• Drive innovation, sustainability, and continuous improvement across all stages of project delivery.

Key Skills and Requirements

• Degree‑qualified in Civil Engineering (or equivalent), ideally with chartered or incorporated status (CEng/IEng) or working toward it.
• Proven experience delivering civil engineering designs on rail or major infrastructure projects at a senior level.
• Strong understanding of relevant rail and infrastructure standards (e.g., Network Rail, Eurocodes).
• Proficient in civil design tools such as MicroStation, AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and Bentley OpenRail/OpenRoads.
• Demonstrated leadership experience in mentoring junior engineers and managing design teams.
• Excellent communication, coordination, and stakeholder management skills.
• Solid grasp of health, safety, and environmental design considerations.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast‑paced, multidisciplinary environment.

Location

This role is based in the historic city of York, a strategic rail hub with excellent transport connections and a rich engineering heritage. Home to the National Railway Museum and a strong rail industry presence, York offers the perfect environment for rail professionals seeking both professional opportunities and quality of life.

Benefits

• Flexible Working
• Hybrid Working Model
• 36 days holiday (inc BH)
• 3 standdown days per year
• Gym membership
• Generous bonus structure
• Group Life Assurance
• Overtime and weekend pay