Associate Director - Systems Engineering

Job Overview

Join WSP as an Associate Director specializing in systems engineering, driving the delivery and integration of rail systems across major infrastructure projects in Ireland. Be part of landmark programmes including MetroLink Dublin and other heavy and light rail investments, collaborating with Transport Infrastructure Ireland and Irish Rail.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead systems engineering and integration for large-scale rail and metro infrastructure initiatives.
• Provide technical leadership and assurance through design, integration, and delivery phases.
• Advise clients as a trusted partner to inform strategic decision-making.
• Manage system requirements and their integration across multidisciplinary teams.
• Coordinate interfaces among rail systems, civil engineering, MEP, and operational divisions.
• Champion systems engineering best practices, including digital and model-based methods.
• Oversee technical reviews, assurance, and governance processes.
• Maintain strong relationships with clients, contractors, and regulatory authorities.
• Identify and mitigate technical risks, enhancing project delivery success.
• Contribute to business development and rail sector project acquisition in Ireland.
• Mentor early-career engineers and foster team growth and leadership.

Candidate Profile

• Extensive experience in rail, metro, or light rail infrastructure, especially within the UK or Ireland.
• Demonstrated success in systems engineering, integration, or design assurance on complex infrastructure projects.
• Familiarity with all life cycle stages from design to commissioning.
• Strong client engagement skills with an ability to influence senior stakeholders.
• Proven leadership or support experience for multidisciplinary teams on large projects.
• In-depth knowledge of systems engineering principles within rail contexts.
• Expertise in leading technical assurance and governance activities.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Strong aptitude for multidisciplinary coordination and interface management.
• Commercially aware, balancing quality, risk, and delivery objectives.
• Collaborative leadership style focused on people development.

Preferred Qualifications

• INCOSE ASEP Certification.
• Chartered Engineer status or significant progress towards qualification.

Company and Culture

WSP is a leading global engineering and professional services firm, with over 11,000 professionals across the UK and Ireland, dedicated to delivering innovative, inclusive, and impactful solutions. Join a talented community focused on creating lasting positive impacts worldwide.

Benefits and Work-Life Balance

• Hybrid work policy offering up to two days remote work per week alongside collaborative office environments.
• An inclusive culture supporting diversity and belonging, with active employee resource groups.
• Health and wellbeing programs including a Virtual GP service, gym membership discounts, menopause support, and reasonable workplace adjustments.
• Flexible time management policies such as "WSP My Hour," additional leave options, and the choice to tailor bank holiday usage.
• Investment in professional development through training, mentoring, and chartership support.

Equal Opportunity

WSP encourages applications from all qualified individuals regardless of gender, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, religion, or other protected characteristics. The company is committed to disability confidence and will provide workplace adjustments as needed.