Principal Systems Engineer

We’re looking for an experienced Principal Systems Engineer to lead the integration, development and optimisation of onboard digital and fleet technology systems.

This is a high-profile opportunity to play a key role in shaping the future of passenger-facing technology across our Class 390 and Class 80x fleets . You’ll provide technical leadership, influence strategic decision-making and drive innovation that improves reliability, performance and the customer experience.

The Opportunity

As the technical authority for onboard digital and software-based systems, you’ll sit at the heart of our fleet technology strategy, connecting Fleet Engineering, Technology, Customer Experience, Asset Owners, Manufacturers and Maintainers .

You’ll provide expert technical direction across a complex and evolving technology landscape, ensuring our onboard systems are robust, reliable, integrated and aligned with both business and customer needs.

You’ll have the opportunity to shape system architecture, lead major technology initiatives and influence the long-term development of our fleet systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the integration, development and performance optimisation of onboard digital and software-based systems across the fleet.

• Define and deliver the fleet systems strategy, ensuring alignment with business objectives, customer expectations and technology roadmaps.

• Provide technical leadership across the Class 390 and Class 80x fleets .

• Lead onboard technology projects and fleet digital initiatives from initial concept through to successful delivery.

• Take ownership of system performance and reliability, identifying opportunities for continual improvement.

• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to develop and deliver innovative engineering solutions.

• Build strong relationships with stakeholders at all levels and influence senior leaders on technology strategy, priorities and system design.

• Apply an appropriate understanding of Cyber Security, Privacy and Data Protection principles to onboard technology systems.

Further details can be found in the Role Profile

What We’re Looking For

Essential Skills

You’ll bring strong technical and analytical capability, including:

• Traction and Rolling Stock Engineering.

• Technical report writing and presentation of complex information.

• Root cause analysis and structured problem-solving.

• Production and review of engineering risk assessments.

• Effective stakeholder management and relationship building.

• Ability to use PowerPoint and other tools to present technical information and data clearly and effectively.

Knowledge & Experience

We’re looking for someone with:

• Proven experience working within the UK rail industry .

• Strong working knowledge of Traction and Rolling Stock Engineering .

• Broad experience across onboard railway systems and technologies.

• Experience of leading and implementing change, with a track record of delivering positive improvements.

• Strong communication and influencing skills, with the ability to engage effectively with everyone from shop-floor colleagues to senior Directors.

• Experience working across multidisciplinary teams and managing relationships with manufacturers, maintainers and other external stakeholders.

Qualifications

• A degree in Engineering or a relevant technical discipline.

• Chartered Engineer or Incorporated Engineer status , or a clear commitment and plan to achieve professional registration.

• Significant project management experience, supported by PRINCE2, Agile or equivalent qualifications/experience .

As well as working with a fantastic team you will also receive:

• Railway Pension Scheme

• Free travel on Avanti West Coast for you/spouse/partner/dependents

• Privilege Travel card (75% off other train operators fares for leisure travel)

• 30 days holiday rising by 1 for every completed year of service to a maximum of 37 days (inclusive of bank holidays)

• 10 free journeys on other First Group Train Operators

At Avanti West Coast, we value the differences that make each of us outstanding! Avanti West Coast recognises the benefits of building a diverse workforce and employing people from diverse backgrounds, which includes their race, religion, age, gender, gender identity, disability, and sexual orientation.

Everyone who joins Avanti West Coast becomes part of our close-knit team. We're committed to ensuring that Avanti West Coast is inclusive, a place where people are encouraged to be themselves, and not an edited version to fit in. A place where differences are encouraged, recognised, accepted and put to good use.