Principal Engineer

Principal EC&I Engineer – Contract (6‑month, outside IR35) £65‑67/hr – Hybrid role. Must hold a British passport for security clearance. Dual‑nationality holders are not eligible.

• Take technical ownership and lead delivery of EC&I hardware solutions (electrical control systems, control panels and associated safety systems) for customers in highly regulated environments.
• Design electrical schematics, control‑panel layouts and equipment selection ensuring compliance with EC&I design principles.
• Develop safety‑system electrical panels compliant with IEC 61508 functional‑safety standards.
• Review AutoCAD Electrical drawings for technical correctness and quality.
• Act as the technical authority on projects, providing leadership, guidance and assurance across EC&I engineering activities.
• Oversee and mentor EC&I engineers, supporting problem‑solving and driving best practice across the team.

• 3+ years of experience leading EC&I engineering in a highly regulated industry (defence, nuclear, medical, rail safety, aviation).
• Strong understanding of EC&I design principles and safety standards.
• Proven track record in designing and developing safety panels to IEC 61508.
• Experience with AutoCAD Electrical and other engineering tools.
• British passport holder initialize; have lived in the UK for at least the last 5 years (security clearance required).
• Ability to work office‑based Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays and remote Monday & Friday.

The role is based in Staffordshire with flexible office locations near Stoke, Stafford, Cannock, Lichfield, Telford, Uttoxeter and Stone.