Design Leader – Rail & Stations

Arup; Utrecht; Hybrid; EUR 100,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Profit sharing

Hybrid working

OV-Businesscard

Career development

Global opportunities

Job summary

Arup in the Netherlands is seeking a Design Leader to shape future rail infrastructure. You will lead multidisciplinary teams of engineers, architects, modellers and planners to deliver integrated Total Design solutions for major rail and station projects.

You will advise clients on design strategies, manage tender phases, and collaborate with ProRail, NS and municipalities. A strong background in civil rail design and leadership is essential, with fluency in Dutch and English.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Civil/Structural Engineering or a related field.
• 5+ years of design experience in civil structures for rail infrastructure and/or stations, with leadership experience (Design Leader/Manager).
• Proven track record managing multidisciplinary design processes and public tender procedures.
• Strong interest in automation, digitization, and recent engineering technologies.
• Fluent Dutch (B2) and professional English communication.

Responsibilities

• Lead multidisciplinary design teams from conceptual studies through detailed design and execution for major rail and station projects.
• Direct complex tender phases, developing winning design strategies and innovative technical solutions.
• Advise and manage relationships with key stakeholders and clients (e.g., ProRail, NS, municipalities).
• Drive continuous improvement by integrating new technologies and digital workflows into rail design processes.
• Mentor and empower colleagues, fostering rail knowledge and collaboration.

Skills

Leadership

Rail design

Public tender

Dutch B2

English proficiency

Education

Bachelors or Masters in Civil/Structural Eng

Tools

BIM

Job description

Amsterdam

Shape a future with purpose at Arup in the Netherlands.

Lead the multidisciplinary design of tomorrow's sustainable transit hubs.

Amsterdam
Shape a future with purpose at Arup in the Netherlands.
Lead the multidisciplinary design of tomorrow's sustainable transit hubs.Arup’s purpose, shared values, and collaborative approach have set us apart for over 75 years, guiding how we shape a better world. Celebrating 25 years of engineering excellence in the Netherlands, our Infrastructure team is driving the transition towards sustainable, high-performance mobility.

We take pride in shaping the nation's critical rail infrastructure. By joining us, you will spearhead multidisciplinary teams delivering iconic, future-proof projects, including the expansion and renewal of Amsterdam Zuid, 's-Hertogenbosch, and Dordrecht stations, as well as strategic MIRT explorations for major public transport links like Amsterdam-Haarlemmermeer.

The Opportunity

This is a high-impact leadership role where engineering meets architectural vision. You will not just manage designs; you will direct complex, multidisciplinary studies and inspire teams of structural engineers, architects, modellers, and planners to deliver integrated "Total Design" solutions.

You will have the autonomy to advise key clients on optimal design strategies, align diverse stakeholders, and push the boundaries of digital innovation in rail infrastructure. Working closely with Arup’s global network of transport experts, you will foster a culture of knowledge sharing and continuous improvement, ensuring we remain at the forefront of a rapidly changing world.

As a Design Leader At Arup, You Will

• Lead and inspire multidisciplinary design teams from conceptual studies through to detailed design and execution for major rail and station projects.
• Direct complex tender phases, developing winning design strategies and innovative technical solutions for public and private clients.
• Advise and manage relationships with key stakeholders and clients (e.g., ProRail, NS, municipalities), acting as their trusted technical partner.
• Drive continuous improvement by integrating new technologies, automation, and digital workflows into our rail design processes.
• Mentor and empower colleagues, actively fostering the growth of rail knowledge and expertise within the team, and supporting a culture of continuous learning and collaboration.

Does this role inspire you?

Skills

We're looking for a visionary design professional who combines deep technical expertise in rail infrastructure with exceptional leadership and client-facing skills. We also value:

• A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in the design of civil structures for (light) rail infrastructure and/or stations, with at least 4 years in a leadership capacity (Design Leader, Design Manager, or Lead Engineer).
• A proven track record of successfully managing multidisciplinary design processes and public tender procedures.
• A forward-thinking mindset with a strong interest in automation, digitization, and the latest engineering technologies.
• Fluency in Dutch (minimum B2 level) to effectively navigate local regulations and client communications, along with professional proficiency in English.

Why Arup?

At Arup, we believe in rewarding our members for their contributions to our shared success. As a trust-owned company, we have the freedom to pursue meaningful work that aligns with our purpose and values. We also offer a unique profit share program, allowing our members to share in the results of our collective efforts.

Benefits That Work For You

• Professional Growth & Development: Benefit from continuous learning opportunities, training programs, and mentorship to enhance your skills and advance your career at Arup.
• Global Opportunities: Collaborate with colleagues worldwide and explore potential short-term or long-term assignments at other Arup offices and project locations.
• Financial Well-being & Ownership: Receive a competitive salary and benefits package and share in Arup's success through our global profit-sharing programme.
• Flexible Working: We offer a hybrid working model, empowering you to find a balance that works for you, your team, and our clients, fostering a healthier work-life integration.
• Sustainable Mobility: We provide a 1st Class OV-Businesscard (Public Transport) to ensure comfortable and sustainable travel.

At Arup, you belong to an extraordinary collective where individuality is encouraged. Our strength comes from how we respect, share, and connect our diverse experiences, perspectives, and ideas. You'll have the opportunity to do socially useful work that has meaning – to Arup, to your career, and to the clients and communities we serve.

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and are committed to building a workplace that reflects the rich diversity of the world around us. We actively promote a culture of inclusion where everyone feels welcome, respected, and valued.

We welcome applications from talented individuals of all backgrounds, regardless of age (within legal limits), gender identity or expression, disability, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic. We are committed to making our recruitment process and workplaces accessible. If you need any assistance or adjustments, please visit our Candidate Support page for contact information and assistance. We're happy to help.

Do you want to join us in shaping a better world?

Apply here [Click ‘Apply for Job’]