Contractor's Engineering Manager (CEM) - Telecoms / Software-Focused Systems
Contract Details:
* Contract Length: Minimum 9 months
* IR35 Status: Outside IR35
* Start Date: ASAP
* Location: Predominantly remote with occasional travel to Cheadle, Stockport
Overview
An experienced Contractor's Engineering Manager (CEM) is required to take over an existing role due to retirement. The role supports a rail‑based programme currently at GRIP 6, entering SIT/SAT testing, and centres on an Online Key Management System (OKMS). The OKMS is a software‑based, cyber‑secure telecoms system used by train drivers to log into operational systems. While the solution has strong software and cyber‑security elements, this is not a pure software role. A telecoms engineering background is essential. Civils or signalling‑only backgrounds are unlikely to be suitable. The OKMS scope represents approximately 40‑50% of the workload; however, candidates with a strong telecoms background will be able to support the role full time.
Key Responsibilities
* Act as Contractor's Engineering Manager, coordinating all engineering activities in line with the project programme and GRIP lifecycle
* Coordinate design and documentation deliverables to Network Rail
* Review and sign off all documentation submitted to Network Rail from delivery partners
* Manage and coordinate responses to Design Review Notes (DRNs), ensuring timely closure or document updates formally accepted by Network Rail
* Coordinate As‑Built documentation where required
* Provide all required documentation for the Network Rail Health & Safety File, agreeing formats with Network Rail
* Provide IDC/IDR Certificates for GRIP stages 5, 6 and 7 (and 8 if required)
* Provide Engineering Completion Certificates (ECC)
* Update and maintain the System Definition
* Update the Service Interface Register (SIR) with input from DDaT stakeholders
* Produce HSM performance reports to support NRAP Product Approval (templates provided)
* Maintain document control via JIRA, SharePoint and OneDrive
* Coordinate with TÜV (Independent Auditor) regarding Subset compliance reports
* Respond to auditor queries and provide supporting evidence as required
* Ensure progress towards compliance with applicable subsets, supporting independent assurance for handover
* Support completion and acceptance of SIT/SAT Safety Letter
* Run checks on outstanding LDO actions prior to certification sign‑off
* Attend Monthly Network Rail Contract Review meetings
* Attend Monthly Human Factors Working Group meetings
* Chair Twice‑weekly Engineering Delivery meetings
* Chair Monthly Security Working Group meetings, reviewing security documentation, residual risks and emerging issues
* Provide a monthly metrics pack
* Provide a monthly technical debt report
* Maintain awareness of project security classifications, procedures and controls
* Identify, manage and escalation any security breaches promptly
* Support updates to security briefings and alignment with current organisational security marking systems
* Consult and adhere to Network Rail security correspondence and requirements
* Obtain and use access to the following systems: Network Rail eB (document control and DRN status), Network Rail Standards Portal, Network Rail Teams, JIRA (document control and WPM), SharePoint / OneDrive (OKMS documentation)
* The CEM will work closely with a multi‑organisation delivery team including project management, service delivery, safety assurance, systems engineering, architecture, and security specialists.
Essential Requirements
* CEM Certification (mandatory)
* Strong telecoms engineering background
* Experience delivering software‑based, cyber‑secure systems within regulated environments
* Proven experience working through GRIP stages, particularly GRIP 5-7
* Experience with IDC/IDR, ECC, DRNs, and Network Rail governance processes
* Ability to manage multiple stakeholders and suppliers
* Comforta
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