Associate/ Associate Director – Systems

Overview

In this role you will lead systems engineering and integration for major UK rail and metro projects, acting as a senior technical authority and trusted client advisor. You will oversee multidisciplinary interfaces, governance, and assurance across the full lifecycle from concept to commissioning, while helping grow WSP’s UK rail capabilities and bid activity. You’ll work with high-profile clients and stakeholders to deliver complex, integrated railway solutions that meet safety, quality, and schedule goals. This is a leadership role with a strong emphasis on development of teams and delivery excellence.

Pay / Benefits

• hybrid working policy
• flexible working arrangements
• virtual GP and NHS access
• Gymflex discretionary benefits
• menopause support package
• personal time flexibility with “WSP My Hour”

Responsibilities

• Lead systems engineering and integration across major UK rail/metro programmes
• Provide technical leadership and assurance across design, integration, and delivery phases
• Act as trusted advisor to clients including Network Rail and HS2
• Oversee definition, management, and integration of system requirements
• Coordinate interfaces across rail systems, civils, MEP, rolling stock
• Support systems engineering best practice, including digital/model-based approaches
• Lead and contribute to technical reviews, assurance processes, governance
• Manage stakeholder relationships with clients, contractors, regulatory bodies
• Identify/manage technical risks and opportunities to support delivery
• Contribute to business development, bid activities
• Mentor and develop high-performing teams in rail systems discipline

Key requirements

• Proven experience within rail, metro, or light rail infrastructure in the UK
• Track record in systems engineering, integration, or design assurance on complex projects
• Experience across design, construction, and commissioning lifecycle
• Experience with major UK clients (Network Rail, HS2)
• Strong client-facing and stakeholder influence abilities
• Experience leading multidisciplinary teams on large-scale programmes
• Strong understanding of rail systems engineering, integration, and UK frameworks
• Knowledge of UK rail standards and approvals processes
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
• Commercial awareness balancing quality, risk, and delivery
• Collaborative leadership with focus on team development
• Chartered Engineer and INCOSE ASEP Certification

• Stakeholder management
• Leadership and mentorship
• Communication and engagement
• Systems engineering
• System integration
• Design assurance

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