Associate Director - Systems

WSP; Dublin; On-site; EUR 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid working policy

Gymflex scheme

Comprehensive menopause support package

Job summary

WSP is seeking an Associate Director – Systems to lead delivery of rail systems across major infrastructure projects in Dublin, Ireland. This senior role involves technical leadership, client advisory, and integration oversight within complex project environments. Responsibilities include managing system requirements, stakeholder relationships, and contributing to business development. A strong background in systems engineering and relevant certifications are required. WSP offers a hybrid working policy, promoting work-life balance and inclusivity.

Qualifications

• Strong experience within rail, metro, or light rail infrastructure, ideally in Ireland or the UK.
• Proven track record in systems engineering, integration, or design assurance on complex infrastructure programmes.
• Experience working across the full project lifecycle, including design, construction, and commissioning.

Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of systems engineering and integration activities across major rail and metro programmes.
• Provide technical leadership and assurance across design, integration, and delivery phases.
• Act as a trusted advisor to clients, supporting decision‑making and programme outcomes.

Skills

Systems engineering

Multidisciplinary coordination

Client-facing experience

Stakeholder engagement

Risk management

Education

Chartered Engineer or strong progress towards

INCOSE ASEP Certification

Job description

Job Description

What if you could do the kind of work the world needs?

Role Summary

As an Associate Director – Systems, you will play a senior role in leading the delivery of rail systems and multidisciplinary integration across major infrastructure programmes in Ireland.

You will provide technical leadership, client advisory, and delivery oversight, ensuring that systems are effectively defined, integrated, and delivered across complex project environments.

Working closely with clients, contractors, and internal teams, you will support projects across the full lifecycle—from early-stage development and design through to construction, testing, and commissioning.

You will also contribute to the growth of WSP’s rail systems capability in Ireland, supporting work winning, team development, and strategic delivery.

Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of systems engineering and integration activities across major rail and metro programmes
• Provide technical leadership and assurance across design, integration, and delivery phases
• Act as a trusted advisor to clients, supporting decision‑making and programme outcomes
• Oversee the definition, management, and integration of system requirements across multidisciplinary teams
• Coordinate interfaces across rail systems, civils, MEP, and operational environments
• Support and guide teams in the application of systems engineering best practice (including digital and model‑based approaches where appropriate)
• Lead and contribute to technical reviews, assurance processes, and governance frameworks
• Manage stakeholder relationships, including clients, contractors, and regulatory bodies
• Identify and manage technical risks and opportunities, supporting successful delivery
• Contribute to business development and work‑winning activities within the Irish rail sector
• Mentor and develop early‑career engineers and emerging leaders within the team

Qualifications

• Strong experience within rail, metro, or light rail infrastructure, ideally in Ireland or the UK
• Proven track record in systems engineering, integration, or design assurance on complex infrastructure programmes
• Experience working across the full project lifecycle, including design, construction, and commissioning
• Client‑facing experience, with the ability to advise and influence senior stakeholders
• Experience leading or supporting multidisciplinary teams on large‑scale projects
• Strong understanding of systems engineering principles and integration in rail environments
• Ability to lead technical assurance and governance processes
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills
• Strong capability in multidisciplinary coordination and interface management
• Commercial awareness, with the ability to balance quality, risk, and delivery outcomes
• Leadership capability with a collaborative and people‑focused approach
• INCOSE ASEP Certification
• Chartered Engineer, or strong progress towards

Benefits

Work‑life balance

At WSP, we understand that work is just one aspect of your life. It’s important to make time for you, your family, friends, interests and your community.

Our hybrid working policy offers the flexibility to work from home two days a week, while also providing opportunities to collaborate in our modern offices across the UK.

Inclusivity & Belonging

We welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and experiences. We enable rewarding careers by encouraging people to bring their whole and authentic selves to work so that our work represents the fullest spectrum of society. We celebrate integrity and treat people with respect, supporting each other and embracing a culture of inclusion and belonging at WSP.

We are committed to supporting our people, giving you the tools to make improvements to your health and wellbeing through our Thrive programme. Our virtual GP service gives you access to an NHS or Irish Medical Council GP at a time and place that suits you – giving you peace of mind and quick access to medical advice when you need it most. We also provide reasonable workplace adjustments for those in need. Additionally, you can benefit from the Gymflex scheme, which offers up to 40% off annual gym memberships through our WSP flexible benefits programme, as well as a comprehensive menopause support package.

Flex your time

To enhance work‑life balance, WSP offers the “WSP My Hour,” allowing you to take one hour each day for personal activities, with the flexibility to make up the time earlier or later that day.

We also provide part‑time and flexible working arrangements, the option to purchase additional leave, and the ability to use your bank holiday entitlement to suit you.

We understand the importance of development and training to you. That’s why we foster a supportive environment that invests in your growth, whether through training, mentoring, or Chartership.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Here at WSP we positively encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy or maternity/paternity. As a Disability Confident leader, we will interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria. Please let us know if you require any workplace adjustments in support of your application.