Senior Design Engineer (Rail Structures)

Matchtech; Manchester; On-site; GBP 150,000 - 200,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading consultancy in the UK rail sector is seeking an experienced Senior Design Engineer to support Access for All station upgrade schemes. The role involves leading the design for rail infrastructure projects, ensuring compliance with all technical and regulatory standards. Candidates should have a degree in Civil or Structural Engineering and experience with Rail infrastructure projects. This opportunity offers a contract for 9 months, with locations in Manchester, Liverpool, or London.

Qualifications

• Chartered or working toward chartership (ICE/IStructE) is desirable.
• Strong experience delivering designs for Rail infrastructure projects.
• Previous involvement in Access for All schemes or similar station upgrade projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead the production of detailed and outline designs for Rail AFA schemes.
• Manage design inputs across civil, structural, and multi-disciplinary teams.
• Ensure compliance with Network Rail standards and industry best practice.
• Coordinate with project managers, contractors, and stakeholders.

Skills

Stakeholder communication

Design management

Understanding of Network Rail standards

Education

Degree in Civil or Structural Engineering

Job description

Location: Manchester, Liverpool, or London (1 day a week)

Contract Length: 9 Months (Maternity Cover)

Employment Type: Contract - Outside IR35

Start Date: ASAP

About the Role

Our client, a leading consultancy within the UK rail sector, is seeking an experienced Senior Design Engineer to support ongoing Access for All (AFA) station upgrade schemes. This is a key role delivering multi-disciplinary design packages across several rail infrastructure projects.

You will be responsible for producing, reviewing, and coordinating design deliverables within a fast-paced environment, ensuring designs meet all technical, safety, and regulatory requirements. The project portfolio includes step‑free access enhancements, station modifications, and associated civil and structural works.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the production of detailed and outline designs for Rail AFA schemes.
• Manage design inputs across civil, structural, and multi-disciplinary teams.
• Ensure compliance with Network Rail standards, CDM regulations, and industry best practice.
• Undertake design checks, approvals, and technical reviews.
• Coordinate with project managers, contractors, and stakeholders to ensure timely delivery.
• Provide technical leadership to junior designers/engineers.
• Support the preparation of design reports, calculations, drawings, and specifications.
• Attend project and site meetings as required.
• Resolve design issues during the construction phase.

Skills & Experience Required

• Degree in Civil or Structural Engineering (or equivalent).
• Chartered or working toward chartership (ICE/IStructE) - desirable.
• Strong experience delivering designs for Rail infrastructure projects.
• Previous involvement in Access for All schemes or similar station upgrade projects.
• Excellent understanding of Network Rail standards and Grip/Pathway processes.
• Strong stakeholder communication and coordination skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage design packages to tight deadlines.