Technical Assessor (Control Command Signalling – Rail) – Independent Contractor
Location: Remote (UK-based) with UK and potential international travel
About the Role
UKAS is the National Accreditation Body for the United Kingdom. We’re currently expanding our network of independent Technical Assessors and Experts with rail industry knowledge to support assessments in line with ISO/IEC standards and relevant EU and UK rail regulations. We’re looking for a Technical Assessor with strong, hands-on experience in control command signalling systems. You’ll assess organisations such as inspection and certification bodies to ensure they meet UK and EU rail regulations. This is a flexible, remote role with some travel required for on-site assessments.
Key Responsibilities:
* Assess rail-sector conformity assessment bodies for compliance with their delivery of certification related to command, control and signalling-related regulations and standards
* Reviewing technical documentation and procedures for signalling systems, including design, implementation, and maintenance
* Evaluating compliance with standards such as Technical Specification for Interoperability Command Control Signalling (EU Regulation 919/2016), EN 50126 (RAMS), EN 50128 (software for railway control and protection systems), and EN 50129 (safety-related electronic signalling systems)
* Providing expert input to support accreditation decisions and reporting findings accurately
What We’re Looking For:
* Proven, practical experience in railway control command signalling, with the ability to demonstrate technical capability through real-world examples of work undertaken in signalling design, implementation, testing, or assurance
* Knowledge and application of relevant standards and specifications, including EU Regulation 919/2016, EN 50126, EN 50128, and EN 50129
* Understanding of risk management, reliability, availability, maintainability, and safety (RAMS) principles as applied to railway signalling
* Qualifications such as a Degree, City & Guilds, HNC, ONC, or BTech in a physical science, engineering, or rail systems discipline are considered appropriate, though not mandatory
* Commitment to upholding the highest standards of quality and impartiality
Personal attributes valued by UKAS include:
* Strong communication and interpersonal skills
* Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects
* A diplomatic and open-minded approach to assessment
Typical Backgrounds
This role suits professionals with substantial experience in the design, development, testing, or regulation of railway signalling systems. Candidates may have worked as signalling engineers, systems assurance specialists, safety assessors, software engineers in rail control systems, or technical consultants advising on signalling safety and interoperability. Experience with RAMS, safety-critical software, and electronic signalling systems is essential, along with a strong understanding of the regulatory frameworks governing their use in both the UK and EU contexts.
Contract Details
This is a freelance, subcontractor role, designed to fit around your existing professional commitments.
You may undertake assessments alongside your full-time employment.
Day rates are competitive and paid per assessment, including preparation and reporting time.
Conflict of Interest
All applicants will be required to complete a conflict of interest declaration as part of the selection process. This ensures impartiality and maintains the integrity of UKAS assessments.
To find out more about the opportunity, follow the link:
https://www.ukas.com/about-us/careers/independent-technical-assessors/
Candidate privacy notice link:
https://www.ukas.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/UKAS-Candidate-Privacy-Notice.pdf