Electrical & ETCS Systems Engineer
About us
Porterbrook is the UK's leading rolling stock financier and asset management company. We've been at the heart of the rail network for over three decades with 4000 vehicles in our diverse portfolio of passenger and freight trains.
As a partner that adds value to the railway today and for the future, we've invested over £3.5bn in new rolling stock and we're actively looking to invest a further £1bn in the years ahead. Since 2020, this includes over £550 million in new trains, fleet upgrades, traction innovation and rail infrastructure.
Sustainability is embedded in our decision making, and we've been named the global sector leader in the annual GRESB sustainability assessment for the last four years.
Our teams are leading some of the most exciting innovations taking place in the railway today at our offices in Derby and London, and the Long Marston Rail Innovation Centre in Warwickshire. The 135-acre site is an invaluable asset for the railway to test and trial new traction technologies.
The Porterbrook group of companies is wholly owned by supportive long-term institutional investors, fully committed to the future of the UK rail sector.
About the team
We have over 100 engineers and fleet support staff working directly on our passenger fleets, alongside experienced key relationship managers with a deep understanding of our customers' needs and expectations on their existing fleets, and investment in new rolling stock.
About the role
A great opportunity for an exceptional Electrical & ETCS Systems Engineer, to join the Porterbrook team.
Role Purpose
To act as Technical Expert on ETCS and key train electrical systems, providing internal engineering consultancy, project partnering and expert engineering advice to Fleet Services, Engineering Services, external stakeholders and the wider business - including Projects, Strategy & Sustainability, new build procurement and Long Marston.
Key Responsibilities
Act as Porterbrook's centre of expertise for electrical & ETCS systems on Traction & rolling-stock
Lead or support technical investigations into equipment failures, support complex warranty claims and joint investigations. This will involve attendance and witnessing issues etc at manufacturing sites and depots from time to time, occasionally outside office hours.
Act as a technical project partner for allocated projects (ie. complex or innovative projects), in support of wider business objectives
Lead internal technical consultancy workstreams, including the management and coordination of external consultants and suppliers, to deliver technical services to the business. Ensure that staff, consultants and contractors working under your direction have appropriate technical competencies to undertake their work.
Lead and act as project manager for assigned workstreams with an electrical systems focus as identified by the business, to meet safety, quality, cost and timescale requirements.
Investigate assigned National Incident Reports and identify, lead and manage appropriate remedial actions. These would normally be NIRs/PIRs that cover multiple fleets, fleets owned by other asset owners or those that have a complex technical bias
Support Fleet Platform Strategy team in delivering strategic fleet solutions
Maintain market awareness of new products & developments, and evaluate on behalf of the wider business.
Build relationships with existing suppliers and any new players in the supply chain, and monitor the quality of products and engineering activities including site visits as required.
Lead or support product development and obsolescence management when the need is identified by the Fleet Services team, the Engineering Services team or the wider business, including supporting formulation of business cases
Support and provide input to Porterbrook's Digital Services team, in their provision of analytics, artificial intelligence and remote condition monitoring system development as appropriate
Attend, inform or support on specific technical workstreams as required, including internal forums such as Technical Committee or Project review meetings
Regularly report on progress on owned workstreams, including updates for Engineering Services team meetings
Lead and review as appropriate engineering change proposals raised by suppliers, customers or internally
Represent Porterbrook at relevant cross-industry forums and working groups, leading & managing as designated
Awareness of business metrics such as companywide KPIs, and contribute to their achievement
Promote and support a culture of safety at all times and in all work locations
Other Duties:
Coordinate and monitor the activities of external consultants and suppliers working under your direction to ensure that the output being achieved is at an acceptable level and to safety, quality, cost and timescale requirements
To support graduates, year in industry students and work experience students placed in the Technical Services team
Skills / Experience
Railway knowledge with appropriate Traction and Rolling Stock technical experience of at least 5 years. The incumbent shall be experienced in dealing with customer and stakeholder engagement, managing projects, supplier liaison and have commercial awareness
What you'll need to have
Ideally Chartered or Incorporated Membership of Engineering Institution or working towards this goal
Degree, HNC or equivalent in Electrical Engineering or a similar discipline
Extensive knowledge of ETCS and electrical systems
Good knowledge of railway industry rolling stock, organisation and players
Knowledge of standards and legislation
Knowledge of rail leasing and commercial environment is desirable
Knowledge and understanding of asset management requirements
Ability to understand and comment upon engineering instructions, drawings and schematics
Ability to understand vehicle maintenance and overhaul requirements
Understanding of whole life costs of trains and systems
Knowledge of remote condition monitoring systems and how they are used in rail
Awareness of infrastructure, electrification and train maintenance facilities is desirable
It would be great if you also had
Ability to plan, manage and deliver to meet business objectives
Open-minded to new ideas and new ways of working
Well organised with an eye for detail
Good oral and written communication skills
Financial and budgeting awareness
Team player
Interpersonal capability / relationship management
Negotiation skills
Ability to work in accordance with Porterbrook's procedures
Computer literacy (especially Microsoft Office applications)
A great place to work
People are the heart of Porterbrook. Our close knit team is diverse, supportive and flexible. We have a collaborative work ethic both within the company and with our customers and suppliers. In recognition of this we have been awarded:
Investors in People Gold accreditation
Investors in People 'We Invest in Wellbeing' Gold accreditation
National Rail Awards 2023 Fleet Achievement of the Year
National Rail Awards 2023 Safety Achievement of the Year
These accolades reflect the company's dedication to creating a supportive and inclusive workplace where employees are empowered to thrive.
To learn more about why Porterbrook is a great place to work please visit our website and follow us on social media.
Our benefits
We are seeking the very best talent to join the team, and offer an excellent salary, along with bonus and benefits. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a great organisation with outstanding people and a road map for the future to grow and develop the business. Some of our benefits are listed below:
1.5x employer contributory pension scheme
Financial wellbeing support
Flexible working
Enhanced family friendly policies
Adoption & Shared Parental Leave benefits
Enhanced Armed Forces policies
Ongoing support with professional and personal development
Long service awards
Porterbrook Star awards
Healthcare cash plan
25 days' annual leave + Bank Holidays + option to buy and sell up to 5 days' additional leave
Additional days annual leave for long service
Season ticket loan
Should you be suitable for the role, the full benefits package will be discussed in more detail during your screening call.
Equal Opportunities
We aspire to have a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage suitably qualified applicants from a wide range of backgrounds to apply and join us on our journey.
Accessibility
We're committed to helping you perform at your best throughout the recruitment process. If you have a disability or need any reasonable adjustments during the application and selection stages, please get in touch with us at We'll be happy to discuss how we can assist.
To apply
Please follow the link at the top of this page to send your CV and a covering email with full details of why you would be a great addition to the Porterbrook team, along with details of your current salary and notice period.
This vacancy may close at any time once sufficient applications have been received. Early submission of your application is therefore encouraged.
What happens next?
Once your application has been reviewed, our recruitment team will be in contact.
Our interview process is typically two stages to ensure a thorough evaluation while providing a chance for you to showcase your skills and fit for our team. This approach allows us to engage in meaningful discussions, assess your qualifications more comprehensively, and ensure a mutual alignment with our company values. If you're ready to take the next step in your career, we look forward to meeting you!
Our people
To find out more about our people and partnerships click the following link
Porterbrook is the UK's leading rolling stock financier and asset management company. We've been at the heart of the rail network for over three decades with 4000 vehicles in our diverse portfolio of passenger and freight trains.
As a partner that adds value to the railway today and for the future, we've invested over £3.5bn in new rolling stock and we're actively looking to invest a further £1bn in the years ahead. Since 2020, this includes over £550 million in new trains, fleet upgrades, traction innovation and rail infrastructure.
Sustainability is embedded in our decision making, and we've been named the global sector leader in the annual GRESB sustainability assessment for the last four years.
Our teams are leading some of the most exciting innovations taking place in the railway today at our offices in Derby and London, and the Long Marston Rail Innovation Centre in Warwickshire. The 135-acre site is an invaluable asset for the railway to test and trial new traction technologies.
The Porterbrook group of companies is wholly owned by supportive long-term institutional investors, fully committed to the future of the UK rail sector.
About the team
We have over 100 engineers and fleet support staff working directly on our passenger fleets, alongside experienced key relationship managers with a deep understanding of our customers' needs and expectations on their existing fleets, and investment in new rolling stock.
About the role
A great opportunity for an exceptional Electrical & ETCS Systems Engineer, to join the Porterbrook team.
Role Purpose
To act as Technical Expert on ETCS and key train electrical systems, providing internal engineering consultancy, project partnering and expert engineering advice to Fleet Services, Engineering Services, external stakeholders and the wider business - including Projects, Strategy & Sustainability, new build procurement and Long Marston.
Key Responsibilities
Act as Porterbrook's centre of expertise for electrical & ETCS systems on Traction & rolling-stock
Lead or support technical investigations into equipment failures, support complex warranty claims and joint investigations. This will involve attendance and witnessing issues etc at manufacturing sites and depots from time to time, occasionally outside office hours.
Act as a technical project partner for allocated projects (ie. complex or innovative projects), in support of wider business objectives
Lead internal technical consultancy workstreams, including the management and coordination of external consultants and suppliers, to deliver technical services to the business. Ensure that staff, consultants and contractors working under your direction have appropriate technical competencies to undertake their work.
Lead and act as project manager for assigned workstreams with an electrical systems focus as identified by the business, to meet safety, quality, cost and timescale requirements.
Investigate assigned National Incident Reports and identify, lead and manage appropriate remedial actions. These would normally be NIRs/PIRs that cover multiple fleets, fleets owned by other asset owners or those that have a complex technical bias
Support Fleet Platform Strategy team in delivering strategic fleet solutions
Maintain market awareness of new products & developments, and evaluate on behalf of the wider business.
Build relationships with existing suppliers and any new players in the supply chain, and monitor the quality of products and engineering activities including site visits as required.
Lead or support product development and obsolescence management when the need is identified by the Fleet Services team, the Engineering Services team or the wider business, including supporting formulation of business cases
Support and provide input to Porterbrook's Digital Services team, in their provision of analytics, artificial intelligence and remote condition monitoring system development as appropriate
Attend, inform or support on specific technical workstreams as required, including internal forums such as Technical Committee or Project review meetings
Regularly report on progress on owned workstreams, including updates for Engineering Services team meetings
Lead and review as appropriate engineering change proposals raised by suppliers, customers or internally
Represent Porterbrook at relevant cross-industry forums and working groups, leading & managing as designated
Awareness of business metrics such as companywide KPIs, and contribute to their achievement
Promote and support a culture of safety at all times and in all work locations
Other Duties:
Coordinate and monitor the activities of external consultants and suppliers working under your direction to ensure that the output being achieved is at an acceptable level and to safety, quality, cost and timescale requirements
To support graduates, year in industry students and work experience students placed in the Technical Services team
Skills / Experience
Railway knowledge with appropriate Traction and Rolling Stock technical experience of at least 5 years. The incumbent shall be experienced in dealing with customer and stakeholder engagement, managing projects, supplier liaison and have commercial awareness
What you'll need to have
Ideally Chartered or Incorporated Membership of Engineering Institution or working towards this goal
Degree, HNC or equivalent in Electrical Engineering or a similar discipline
Extensive knowledge of ETCS and electrical systems
Good knowledge of railway industry rolling stock, organisation and players
Knowledge of standards and legislation
Knowledge of rail leasing and commercial environment is desirable
Knowledge and understanding of asset management requirements
Ability to understand and comment upon engineering instructions, drawings and schematics
Ability to understand vehicle maintenance and overhaul requirements
Understanding of whole life costs of trains and systems
Knowledge of remote condition monitoring systems and how they are used in rail
Awareness of infrastructure, electrification and train maintenance facilities is desirable
It would be great if you also had
Ability to plan, manage and deliver to meet business objectives
Open-minded to new ideas and new ways of working
Well organised with an eye for detail
Good oral and written communication skills
Financial and budgeting awareness
Team player
Interpersonal capability / relationship management
Negotiation skills
Ability to work in accordance with Porterbrook's procedures
Computer literacy (especially Microsoft Office applications)
A great place to work
People are the heart of Porterbrook. Our close knit team is diverse, supportive and flexible. We have a collaborative work ethic both within the company and with our customers and suppliers. In recognition of this we have been awarded:
Investors in People Gold accreditation
Investors in People 'We Invest in Wellbeing' Gold accreditation
National Rail Awards 2023 Fleet Achievement of the Year
National Rail Awards 2023 Safety Achievement of the Year
These accolades reflect the company's dedication to creating a supportive and inclusive workplace where employees are empowered to thrive.
To learn more about why Porterbrook is a great place to work please visit our website and follow us on social media.
Our benefits
We are seeking the very best talent to join the team, and offer an excellent salary, along with bonus and benefits. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a great organisation with outstanding people and a road map for the future to grow and develop the business. Some of our benefits are listed below:
1.5x employer contributory pension scheme
Financial wellbeing support
Flexible working
Enhanced family friendly policies
Adoption & Shared Parental Leave benefits
Enhanced Armed Forces policies
Ongoing support with professional and personal development
Long service awards
Porterbrook Star awards
Healthcare cash plan
25 days' annual leave + Bank Holidays + option to buy and sell up to 5 days' additional leave
Additional days annual leave for long service
Season ticket loan
Should you be suitable for the role, the full benefits package will be discussed in more detail during your screening call.
Equal Opportunities
We aspire to have a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage suitably qualified applicants from a wide range of backgrounds to apply and join us on our journey.
Accessibility
We're committed to helping you perform at your best throughout the recruitment process. If you have a disability or need any reasonable adjustments during the application and selection stages, please get in touch with us at We'll be happy to discuss how we can assist.
To apply
Please follow the link at the top of this page to send your CV and a covering email with full details of why you would be a great addition to the Porterbrook team, along with details of your current salary and notice period.
This vacancy may close at any time once sufficient applications have been received. Early submission of your application is therefore encouraged.
What happens next?
Once your application has been reviewed, our recruitment team will be in contact.
Our interview process is typically two stages to ensure a thorough evaluation while providing a chance for you to showcase your skills and fit for our team. This approach allows us to engage in meaningful discussions, assess your qualifications more comprehensively, and ensure a mutual alignment with our company values. If you're ready to take the next step in your career, we look forward to meeting you!
Our people
To find out more about our people and partnerships click the following link
Remember: You should never send money to a prospective employer or disclose any financial information. Should you encounter any job listings requesting payments or financial details, please reach out to us immediately. For further guidance, visit jobsaware.co.uk.
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