Rolling Stock Engineer

Our client, a prominent player in the rail industry, is seeking a skilled Rolling Stock Engineer for a contract role based in Birmingham. This opportunity involves supporting vehicle survey activities with a strong focus on electrical systems and ETCS (European Train Control System) integration and assessment. The Rolling Stock Engineer will be essential in inspecting, documenting, and analysing rolling stock electrical systems to support upgrades, modifications, asset condition assessments, and ETCS fitment programmes.

Key Responsibilities:



Vehicle Survey & Inspection

• Conduct detailed on-site surveys of rolling stock, focusing on electrical systems, wiring, control circuits, and onboard equipment.
• Capture accurate data, measurements, and photographic evidence of train systems and layouts.
• Produce structured survey reports, including red-line drawings and documentation updates.
• Verify installed equipment against technical drawings, schematics, and design specifications.

Electrical Engineering

• Assess condition and configuration of electrical systems, including:
  • Power distribution
  • Control circuits
  • Auxiliary systems
  • Cab control interfaces
• Identify obsolescence, compliance, and integration risks.
• Support development of modification designs and engineering solutions.

ETCS / Signalling Systems

• Evaluate existing onboard signalling equipment relevant to ETCS integration.
• Support ETCS retrofit projects by:
  • Identifying installation constraints and interfaces
  • Assessing space, power, and wiring requirements
  • Reviewing compatibility with existing Train Control & Monitoring Systems (TCMS)
• Assist in reviewing ETCS architecture, onboard units (OBU), DMI, balise transmission modules, and antenna positioning.

Documentation & Reporting

• Produce high-quality technical reports following surveys.
• Update schematics, wiring diagrams, and installation drawings.
• Record and manage survey data in line with project/document control requirements.
• Provide technical input into engineering change documentation.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Liaise with depot teams, operators, maintainers, and project engineers during survey activities.
• Provide technical support to multidisciplinary teams including mechanical and systems engineers.
• Support client meetings and technical reviews as required.

Safety & Compliance

• Ensure all work complies with:
  • Railway Group Standards
  • RIS standards
  • EN 50155 / 50126 / 50128 / 50129 (as applicable)
• Follow safe systems of work when working on or around rolling stock.

Job Requirements:

• Degree or equivalent qualification in Electrical/Electronic Engineering.
• Proven experience working on rolling stock or rail vehicle systems.
• Hands-on experience conducting vehicle surveys or inspections.
• Strong understanding of rail vehicle electrical systems and interfaces.
• Working knowledge of ETCS systems and onboard integration.
• Ability to read and interpret:
  • Electrical schematics
  • Wiring diagrams
  • System block diagrams
• Experience producing technical reports and engineering documentation.
• Competence in using standard engineering tools and survey equipment.

Desirable Skills & Experience:

• Experience with ETCS retrofit or new build programmes.
• Knowledge of:
  • TCMS (Train Control & Monitoring Systems)
  • GSM-R / FRMCS interfaces
• Familiarity with CAD tools (e.g., AutoCAD, Solid Edge, Microstation) for drawing updates.
• Experience working in UK rail environment and standards.
• PTS (Personal Track Safety) or depot access competencies.

Key Competencies:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• High attention to detail, especially in survey and documentation work.
• Ability to work independently on-site and manage survey tasks.
• Excellent communication and reporting skills.
• Flexible and willing to travel to depots and rail sites.

If you are an experienced Rolling Stock Engineer looking for a challenging contract role, we encourage you to apply now to join our client's team in Birmingham.