Procurement Specialist - Rail

Procurement Specialist - Rail Signalling & E&P Major Projects

Location: Birmingham, Derby or Ireland
Sector: Rail Infrastructure / Major Projects
Discipline: Railway Signalling, Control Systems, Electrification & Plant (E&P)
Employment Type: Permanent / Contract

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced Procurement Specialist to support the delivery of major rail infrastructure projects across Signalling, Control Systems, and E&P programmes. The role will focus on strategic sourcing, supplier management, subcontract procurement, and commercial support across complex rail frameworks and capital delivery projects.

The successful candidate will work closely with project delivery, engineering, commercial, and supply chain teams to ensure materials, subcontractors, and specialist services are procured in line with programme, budget, quality, and rail compliance requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead procurement activities for rail signalling and E&P packages on major infrastructure projects.
• Manage end-to-end sourcing processes including RFQs, ITTs, tender evaluations, negotiations, and contract awards.
• Develop and maintain supplier relationships across rail systems, civils, M&E, signalling equipment, and electrical infrastructure.
• Support NEC contract administration and procurement governance processes.
• Work with project managers and planners to ensure procurement schedules align with delivery milestones.
• Identify cost-saving and value engineering opportunities within the supply chain.
• Ensure suppliers comply with Network Rail standards, RISQS requirements, safety regulations, and project specifications.
• Monitor supplier performance, lead times, delivery risks, and mitigation plans.
• Support framework procurement activities for CP7 and major enhancement schemes.
• Produce procurement reports, spend analysis, and KPI tracking for senior stakeholders.

Required Experience

• Previous procurement or supply chain experience within UK rail infrastructure projects.
• Strong understanding of rail signalling and/or E&P systems.
• Experience working on major projects, frameworks, or multidisciplinary rail programmes.
• Knowledge of Network Rail standards and procurement compliance processes.
• Experience procuring subcontractors, materials, and specialist rail services.
• Familiarity with NEC contracts and commercial procedures.
• Strong stakeholder management and supplier negotiation skills.
• Ability to manage multiple procurement packages simultaneously.

Preferred Qualifications

• CIPS qualification (Level 4-6 desirable).
• Degree or equivalent in Supply Chain, Procurement, Engineering, Business, or Commercial Management.
• RISQS or rail industry experience preferred.
• Understanding of signalling systems such as interlockings, trackside equipment, telecoms, or SCADA advantageous.
• Knowledge of HV/LV electrical systems, OLE, substations, or power distribution beneficial for E&P-focused roles.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.