Shift Engineer

Arriva UK Bus Ltd; Greater London; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

Arriva plc is seeking a Running Shift Engineer to oversee safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and fault resolution of rolling stock during service hours. You will ensure optimal performance and minimal passenger disruption.

Responsibilities include proactive/reactive maintenance, diagnostics, risk assessment, and coordination with depot staff to restore service quickly.

Qualifications

• Recognised engineering qualification in Mechanical, Electrical, or Railway Engineering (e.g., NVQ Level 3, HNC/HND).
• Proven experience in maintenance and fault finding of rolling stock in railway environment.
• Strong understanding of train systems (traction, braking, doors, HVAC, control).
• Ability to read engineering drawings, schematics, and technical manuals.
• Proficient in diagnostic tools and equipment relevant to railway maintenance.

Responsibilities

• Conduct preventive and reactive maintenance on rolling stock, including inspections and repairs.
• Respond to in-service failures and diagnose root causes to restore service.
• Perform routine checks on train systems to meet safety and operational standards.
• Document all maintenance activities and fault reports accurately.
• Coordinate with train crew and depot staff to resolve issues.
• Follow safety regulations and industry standards at all times.
• Support development of maintenance strategies and continuous improvement.
• Operate diagnostic equipment to identify and rectify faults.
• Carry out minor infrastructure repairs to ensure safe train movement.
• Provide technical guidance to team members as needed.

Skills

Railway engineering

Diagnostics tools

Electrical systems

Mechanical systems

Fault finding

Reading schematics

Education

NVQ Level 3 in Mechanical/Electrical/Railway

HNC/HND in relevant field

Tools

Railway diagnostic tools

Diagnostic equipment

Job description

Running Shift Engineer

Job Summary

As a Running Shift Engineer at Arriva plc, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and fault resolution of our rolling stock during service hours, ensuring optimal performance and minimal disruption to passenger services.

Job Responsibilities

• Conduct proactive and reactive maintenance on rolling stock, including inspections, diagnostics, and repairs of mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems.
• Respond promptly to in-service failures and breakdowns, identifying root causes and implementing effective solutions to restore service or facilitate recovery.
• Perform routine checks and tests on train systems and components to ensure compliance with safety standards and operational requirements.
• Document all maintenance activities, fault reports, and repair logs accurately and comprehensively.
• Collaborate with train crew, control room staff, and depot personnel to communicate technical issues and coordinate effective resolutions.
• Adhere strictly to all company safety regulations, procedures, and relevant industry standards.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and contribute to the development of maintenance strategies.
• Operate specialist diagnostic equipment and tools to identify and rectify faults.
• Carry out minor infrastructure repairs or assessments as required to ensure safe train movement.
• Provide technical support and guidance to other team members as needed.

Job Qualifications

• Recognised engineering qualification (e.g., NVQ Level 3, HNC/HND, or equivalent) in Mechanical, Electrical, or Railway Engineering.
• Proven experience in the maintenance and fault finding of rolling stock within a railway environment.
• Strong understanding of train systems, including traction, braking, doors, HVAC, and control systems.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, schematics, and technical manuals.
• Proficient in the use of diagnostic tools and equipment relevant to railway maintenance.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to make critical decisions under pressure.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively as part of a team and liaise with various stakeholders.
• Commitment to health and safety procedures and practices.
• Flexibility to work shifts, including nights, weekends, and public holidays, as required by operational demands.
• A valid UK driving license is preferred due to potential travel between depots or incident locations.