Engineering Projects Manager

Job Description

BUSINESS FUNCTION: Engineering

GRADE: ML1/SB3

SALARY: Circa £56,200 per annum

ROLE TYPE: Onsite

HOURS: 37 per week

People rely on Northern’s trains to get where they need to be safely, reliably, and on time. Behind every journey is a huge amount of engineering work that keeps our fleet ready for service across the North.

As an Engineering Projects Manager, you’d sit at the heart of that effort. You’ll take ownership of engineering projects that shape how our trains are maintained, modified, and improved. From safety-led changes to technology and documentation upgrades, the projects you deliver will directly impact fleet performance, customer experience, and long-term sustainability.

This is a role where ideas turn into action. You’ll see projects through from concept to completion, working closely with engineers, depots, suppliers, and stakeholders to make sure everything lands safely, smoothly, and on schedule.

What you’ll be doing

You’ll be responsible for planning, managing, and delivering a portfolio of engineering projects across the fleet. Day to day, that means you’ll:

• Turn project concepts into clear, deliverable implementation plans.
• Prepare approval documentation for internal and external stakeholders.
• Track and report on progress, including performance improvements, forecasts, and budgets.
• Investigate safety or technical issues arising from maintenance or repairs, working with engineers and contractors to identify solutions.
• Write working instructions and provide technical advice to support modifications and project rollouts.
• Make sure all technical changes meet industry standards and specifications, maintaining compliance throughout.
• Manage material changes, coordinating stock and procurement with the Fleet Commercial team.
• Work closely with engineering teams to minimise impact on fleet availability and flag risks early.
• Represent Northern at industry forums and keep up to date with external developments and best practice.

About you

You’ll bring engineering credibility, project delivery experience, and the confidence to work with a wide range of people. Collaboration comes naturally to you, and you know how to keep projects moving even when things get complex.

Here are the essentials you’ll bring with you:

• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with technical and non-technical colleagues.
• Proven experience delivering complex engineering projects from planning through to completion.
• Excellent organisational skills and the ability to prioritise in a busy environment.
• Significant experience in engineering management, ideally within railway vehicle engineering or a depot setting.
• An engineering qualification to HNC level, or working towards it.
• A NEBOSH Certificate, or working towards one.
• Experience of safety, quality, and technical product audits.
• Confidence using IT systems and supporting others to use them well.

If you also hold a project management or people management qualification, that’s a bonus rather than a must.

What’s in it for you?

At Northern, we don’t just value our people - we go the extra mile to support them. Here’s a taste of what you can look forward to:

• Free Travel: Unlimited free travel for you, your partner, and your dependents on Northern services. Plus up to 75% discount on other networks in the UK and Europe.
• Generous Pension Scheme: We top up your contributions by 1.5 times.
• Enhanced Family Benefits: 9 months of full pay for maternity leave and 2 weeks for paternity leave.
• Cycle to Work Scheme: Save up to 42% on a bike and spread the cost.
• Exclusive Discounts: From shopping to wellbeing, Northern Perks has you covered.
• Employee Assistance Programme: 24/7 support for family, lifestyle, and more.
• Training and Career Development: Tailored training, recognised qualifications, and clear career pathways across the business.
• Recognition: Our Northern Lights and Northern Sparks Awards celebrate the brilliant work our people do every day.

Why Northern?

We’re more than just a train operator. We’re the heartbeat of the North – connecting communities, creating opportunities, and driving sustainable growth. With 2,500 trains running daily, we’re on a mission to improve rail travel and enhance the customer experience while protecting the environment.

Back in 1825, the first passenger train set off in the North of England, after which rail quickly spread across the globe – and this year, we’re celebrating 200 years of the modern railway. As we look back on the historic events that led us here, we also look towards the future as we move into the era of Great British Rail. Join us at this pivotal moment in rail history and play your part in our journey.

A place for everyone

The best journeys happen when everyone feels welcome on board.

At Northern, we don’t just move people from A to B – we’re building a team where everyone feels they belong. Our talent team can make reasonable adjustments to the process if that’s something you need. We’re also a Level 2 Disability Confident employer, so if you meet the minimum criteria for the role, we’ll always offer an interview.

We automate parts of our screening process to remove any unconscious bias and to make sure every application is treated fairly. All successful offers will be subject to a DBS check and a medical assessment.

No matter your background, experience, or whether you call it a bap, barm, or cob… there’s a place for you here in the railway