A senior or principal civil design engineer leads the design and development of civil engineering projects, ensuring they meet technical, regulatory, and safety standards. They work on large-scale infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and water systems, providing technical expertise and overseeing design teams.
Key tasks include preparing detailed designs, conducting site assessments, coordinating with project teams, and ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations. They also manage design reviews, solve complex engineering problems, and mentor junior engineers.
Strong design skills, proficiency in CAD and civil engineering software (e.g., AutoCAD, Civil 3D), and experience in project management are essential. Many senior civil design engineers hold Chartered Engineer status (CEng) and have extensive experience in civil engineering design, construction, and regulatory compliance.
A project manager oversees all aspects of a project, from initiation to completion, ensuring it is delivered on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. They manage teams, resources, and client relationships, coordinating efforts to meet project goals.
Key tasks include defining project scope, developing schedules, managing budgets, mitigating risks, and ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards. They also monitor project progress, handle communications between stakeholders, and resolve issues as they arise.
Strong leadership, communication, and organisational skills are essential. Project managers should have experience in project management methodologies (e.g., Agile, PRINCE2) and hold relevant qualifications, such as PMP or APM.
A landscape architect designs outdoor spaces, ensuring functionality, aesthetics, and environmental sustainability. They work on a range of projects, from public parks and gardens to urban developments and infrastructure projects, integrating both natural and built environments.
Key tasks include creating design concepts, preparing detailed plans and specifications, managing site assessments, and collaborating with engineers, planners, and clients. They also ensure designs comply with local regulations, environmental guidelines, and sustainability goals.
Proficiency in design software like AutoCAD, SketchUp, or GIS, along with a strong understanding of horticulture, environmental design, and planning regulations, is essential. Many landscape architects hold professional qualifications and are members of organisations like the Landscape Institute (LI).
Looking for your next opportunity? Take a look at our latest job openings, here.
An installation manager oversees the installation of equipment, systems, or infrastructure on-site, ensuring projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required standards. They coordinate with project teams, contractors, and clients to manage resources, schedules, and quality control.
Key tasks include planning and supervising installation activities, managing teams of installers, ensuring safety and compliance with regulations, and troubleshooting any issues that arise during installation. They also provide technical guidance, maintain project documentation, and report progress to stakeholders.
Strong organisational, leadership, and problem-solving skills are essential. Installation managers should have experience with project management, installation processes, and health and safety standards, often holding qualifications in engineering or construction management.
Looking for your next opportunity? Take a look at our latest job openings, here.
An electrical design engineer is responsible for designing and developing electrical systems for various industries, including construction, infrastructure, and manufacturing. They create technical drawings, specify components, and ensure compliance with industry regulations and safety standards.
Key tasks include producing electrical schematics, selecting materials, performing load calculations, and coordinating with project teams to integrate electrical designs into broader engineering projects. They also conduct design reviews, troubleshoot issues, and ensure adherence to regulations such as BS 7671 and IEC standards.
Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, or EPLAN), knowledge of power distribution and control systems, and strong problem-solving skills are essential. Many electrical design engineers hold degrees in electrical engineering and work towards or hold professional accreditation such as IEng or CEng.
A lead planner is responsible for developing and managing project schedules to ensure timely and efficient delivery. They work across industries such as construction, engineering, and infrastructure, coordinating with project managers, engineers, and stakeholders to maintain accurate timelines and resource planning.
Key tasks include creating and maintaining project schedules, identifying risks and delays, conducting progress analysis, and reporting on project performance. They also optimise workflows, ensure alignment with contractual deadlines, and support decision-making through data-driven insights.
Proficiency in planning software such as Primavera P6 or MS Project is essential, along with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Lead planners typically have experience in project controls, scheduling methodologies, and risk management, often working towards or holding professional accreditation in project management or planning.
Looking for your next opportunity? Take a look at our latest job openings, here.
A senior or principal project engineer leads the planning and execution of complex engineering projects, ensuring they meet technical, budgetary, and schedule requirements. They provide technical leadership, oversee project teams, and liaise with clients, contractors, and stakeholders to drive project success.
Key tasks include reviewing and approving designs, managing project risks, ensuring compliance with industry regulations, and resolving high-level technical challenges. They also contribute to project strategy, mentor junior engineers, and support business development through bid preparation and client engagement.
Extensive experience in project delivery, strong leadership skills, and in-depth knowledge of engineering principles and project management methodologies are essential. Many senior project engineers work towards or hold Chartered Engineer (CEng) status and have expertise in contract management, cost control, and regulatory compliance.
A CAD technician produces technical drawings and designs using computer-aided design (CAD) software for engineering and construction projects. They work closely with engineers, architects, and designers to create detailed 2D and 3D models that support project planning and execution.
Key tasks include drafting and modifying technical drawings, ensuring designs meet industry standards, and collaborating with project teams to interpret specifications. CAD technicians also manage drawing revisions, maintain design databases, and assist in resolving design challenges.
Proficiency in software such as AutoCAD, Revit, or MicroStation is essential, along with a strong understanding of engineering principles and construction methods. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work to tight deadlines are also important in this role.
Looking for your next opportunity? Take a look at our latest job openings, here.
A commercial manager oversees the financial and contractual aspects of projects, ensuring profitability and compliance with industry regulations. They manage budgets, negotiate contracts, and assess commercial risks to protect the company’s interests.
Key tasks include cost forecasting, contract administration, managing supplier and client relationships, and ensuring projects meet financial targets. Commercial managers also lead on dispute resolution, procurement strategies, and commercial reporting.
Strong negotiation, analytical, and financial management skills are essential. Experience with contract law, procurement processes, and industry-standard contracts (e.g., NEC, JCT) is often required. Many commercial managers have a background in quantity surveying, finance, or business management, with professional accreditation such as RICS or CICES.
A project engineer oversees the planning, execution, and delivery of engineering projects across various sectors, ensuring they meet technical, budgetary, and time constraints. They coordinate between design teams, contractors, and clients to streamline project workflows and resolve technical challenges.
Key tasks include preparing technical specifications, reviewing designs, managing risks, and ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations. Project engineers also monitor project progress, conduct site inspections, and provide solutions to engineering issues as they arise.
Strong communication and problem-solving skills are essential, along with experience in project management tools and methodologies. Knowledge of relevant health and safety regulations, contract management, and cost control is also important. Many project engineers hold a degree in engineering and work towards professional accreditation, such as Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.
While the recruiters at Advance TRS are front and centre in matching candidates with roles, there’s a whole team behind the scenes making sure everything runs seamlessly. From finance to compliance, marketing to admin, our Business Services team is the backbone that supports the company’s day-to-day success.
In this blog, we’ll explore why working in Business Services at Advance TRS can be a rewarding choice. These teams may not be directly involved in recruitment, but their work is vital to how we operate.
Payroll and Finance: Keeping Everything on Track
Our payroll team is responsible for managing the pay for contractors and clients across both Advance TRS and CITILINE. They ensure that contractors are onboarded smoothly, and that pay is accurate and delivered on time. Beyond just numbers, this team plays a key role in maintaining financial accuracy and building trust with clients and candidates alike.
Marketing at Advance TRS isn’t just about external campaigns – it’s about building a positive internal culture too. The marketing team crafts the stories that showcase who we are and what we do, from content creation to brand positioning. Their work helps to maintain Advance TRS as a trusted brand and also creates a positive workplace culture that attracts the right talent.
Compliance: Ensuring We Stay Compliant
In recruitment, staying compliant with industry regulations is essential. Our Compliance team manages all the necessary paperwork, from contracts to legal documents, making sure we stay fully aligned with industry standards. Their role is about protecting the integrity of the business and maintaining the trust of our clients and candidates.
Sales Support: The Glue that Holds It Together
The Sales Support teams are the behind-the-scenes workers that keep everything running smoothly. From managing candidate and client data to assisting with logistics, they ensure that the recruiters can focus on what they do best – finding the right candidates. Without their help, the recruitment process would quickly grind to a halt.
HSQE, Bids, and Audits: Keeping Standards High
HSQE (Health, Safety, Quality, and Environment), Bids, and Audits are the team ensuring that everything we do aligns with strict quality standards. From maintaining safety procedures to securing certifications, their work ensures we remain a trusted partner for clients and contractors. They also support the sales team in ensuring bids and tenders are comprehensive and accurate.
The success of Advance TRS is built on the strong collaboration between our recruiters and Business Services team. Every team member, no matter the department, contributes to the company’s overall success. If you’re looking for a role that supports a growing, high-energy business, Business Services at Advance TRS offers the chance to make an impact.
If you’re interested in business operations, finance, compliance, or marketing, there’s a place for you in our Business Services team. Every role is integral to keeping Advance TRS at the top of its game, and we’re always looking for talented individuals to help us grow.
Check out the latest openings and find out how you can contribute to the smooth running of Advance TRS.
For companies managing large-scale, ongoing projects in sectors like rail and construction, recruitment can be a time-consuming challenge. Our Recruitment Process Outsourcing (RPO) service provides a full-scale talent solution, covering the entire hiring process from workforce planning to onboarding.
What Is RPO?
Advance TRS offers a dynamic and customisable RPO service designed to meet the specific needs of our clients. Whether you require end-to-end recruitment management or support in specific areas, we work as an extension of your team to streamline and enhance hiring processes.
More than just recruitment, our RPO service includes employer brand representation in the labour market. We act as ambassadors for your business, presenting your values and culture to attract top-tier talent. By continuously refining recruitment strategies, we help you build a positive candidate experience and a strong employer reputation.
How Our RPO Works
We tailor our RPO solutions to your project requirements. Here’s how we support your recruitment needs:
1. Workforce Planning & Strategy
Assess project pipeline and workforce needs.
Develop a structured hiring strategy aligned with business goals.
Identify skills gaps and create a plan to attract top talent.
2. Talent Sourcing & Attraction
Use data-driven sourcing techniques to find skilled professionals.
Leverage industry networks and databases to access top candidates.
Implement targeted employer branding to enhance candidate engagement.
3. Screening & Selection
Conduct pre-screening and competency-based interviews.
Manage testing, compliance checks, and reference verifications.
Provide shortlists of high-quality candidates ready for hire.
4. Offer Management & Onboarding
Handle salary negotiations and contract management.
Ensure smooth onboarding with pre-employment support.
Track employee retention and performance for continuous improvement.
Why Choose Our RPO?
Our RPO service is built to scale, making it ideal for complex infrastructure projects that require high-volume hiring.
End-to-End Recruitment Support: Covers the full hiring lifecycle, from sourcing to onboarding.
Scalable & Flexible: Adapts to changing project needs and workforce demands.
Industry Expertise: Specialised knowledge in rail, construction, and infrastructure.
Compliance & Risk Management: Ensures all hires meet regulatory and safety requirements.
Brand Representation: Enhances employer brand perception and candidate experience.
Technology-Driven Solutions: Uses industry best practices and recruitment tech to streamline hiring.
Get Started
If you need a full-scale recruitment solution for your next project, our RPO service can help. Contact us to discuss how we can tailor our approach to your hiring needs, here.
The infrastructure sector is undergoing a significant transformation as digital technologies reshape the industry. With digital transformation impacting sectors globally, the demand for tech-savvy professionals in engineering and infrastructure has never been greater. From automation and artificial intelligence (AI) to data analysis and smart systems, emerging technologies are driving innovation and efficiency in projects across the UK.
At Advance TRS, we understand that staying ahead in this rapidly evolving landscape requires more than just traditional engineering expertise – which is why we’re committed to sourcing and placing talent with the digital skills needed to power infrastructure’s future.
The Growing Demand for Digital Skills in Infrastructure
The integration of digital technologies into infrastructure projects is no longer a luxury – it’s a necessity. Here’s why:
Automation: From automated construction equipment to smart traffic management systems, automation is streamlining processes, reducing costs, and improving safety. Professionals with experience in robotics, IoT (Internet of Things), and process automation are in high demand.
Artificial Intelligence: AI is transforming how infrastructure projects are planned, designed, and maintained. Predictive analytics, machine learning, and AI-driven decision-making tools are helping organisations optimise resources and mitigate risks.
Data Analysis: Data is the backbone of modern infrastructure. Engineers and analysts who can collect, interpret, and leverage data to drive insights are critical to the success of projects in sectors like rail, energy, and water management.
Sustainability and Smart Systems: As the push for sustainable infrastructure grows, digital tools are enabling smarter energy use, waste reduction, and environmental monitoring. Professionals skilled in green technologies and smart systems are essential to achieving these goals.
How Advance TRS is Adapting to Source Tech-Savvy Talent
At Advance TRS, we recognise that the future of infrastructure lies at the intersection of engineering and technology. As a specialist recruitment consultancy for the built environment, we’re committed to helping our clients stay ahead of the curve by connecting them with professionals who possess both technical expertise and digital fluency. Here’s how we’re doing it:
1. Expanding Our Talent Pool
We’ve broadened our search to include candidates with hybrid skill sets—those who combine traditional engineering expertise with proficiency in emerging technologies. Whether it’s a civil engineer with experience in AI-driven design tools or a project manager skilled in data-driven decision-making, we’re focused on finding the right talent for modern infrastructure projects.
2. Staying Ahead of Industry Trends
Our team keeps a close eye on the latest developments in digital transformation and their impact on the infrastructure sector. By understanding the skills and technologies shaping the future, we can anticipate our clients’ needs and source candidates who are ready to hit the ground running.
3. Building Partnerships with Tech-Savvy Professionals
We actively engage with professionals who are at the forefront of digital innovation in infrastructure. Through industry events, online communities, and targeted outreach, we’ve built a network of candidates who bring cutting-edge skills to the table.
4. Providing Tailored Recruitment Solutions
Every project is unique, and so are the skills required to deliver it. We work closely with our clients to understand their specific needs, whether they’re looking for permanent hires or contract professionals. Our bespoke recruitment solutions ensure that we match the right talent to the right opportunity.
As a leading specialist recruitment agency for the engineering and infrastructure sectors, Advance TRS is your partner in navigating the digital future. Our expertise spans key industries such as Rail, Water & Environment, Highways, Energy & Renewables, and Buildings & Groundworks, making us the recruitment partner of choice for industry-leading projects across the UK.
Want to find out more about the services we offer? Take a look, here.
At Advance TRS, we know that recruitment is more than just matching candidates to roles – it’s about building relationships, understanding needs, and delivering results. And if you’ve got a background in sales, you’re already well-equipped to excel in this dynamic industry.
Recruitment and sales share a common thread: the art of closing deals. Whether you’re selling a product, a service, or a career opportunity, the core skills are the same. Here’s why your sales experience makes you a natural fit for recruitment – and how it can help you thrive at Advance TRS.
1. You Know How to Build Relationships
In sales, success hinges on your ability to connect with people, understand their needs, and earn their trust. The same is true in recruitment. Candidates and clients alike want to work with someone who listens, communicates clearly, and genuinely cares about their goals. Your experience in building rapport and nurturing long-term relationships is a huge asset in this people-driven industry.
Every sales professional knows that objections aren’t roadblocks – they’re opportunities. In recruitment, you’ll encounter similar challenges. A candidate might hesitate about a role, or a client might push back on a shortlist. Your ability to address concerns, provide solutions, and turn a “no” into a “yes” will set you apart as a recruiter who gets results.
3. You Understand the Power of Persuasion
Closing a deal requires more than just presenting facts – it’s about crafting a compelling narrative. In recruitment, you’ll use this skill to sell opportunities to candidates and candidates to clients. Your ability to highlight the right benefits, at the right time, will make you a trusted advisor to both sides of the equation.
Sales teaches you to stay focused on targets, even when the going gets tough. Recruitment is no different. There will be ups and downs, but your drive to hit goals and your resilience in the face of challenges will keep you moving forward. At Advance TRS, we value that determination and provide the support and tools you need to succeed.
5. You Thrive in a Competitive Environment
If you’ve worked in sales, you’re no stranger to competition. Recruitment offers a similarly fast-paced, results-driven environment where your efforts directly impact your success. At Advance TRS, we celebrate that competitive spirit and reward those who go the extra mile to deliver for their clients and candidates.
Advance TRS is a specialist recruitment consultancy dedicated to providing highly skilled technical professionals and bespoke recruitment solutions for the engineering and infrastructure sectors.
If you’re ready to take your sales skills to the next level and build a rewarding career in recruitment, we’d love to hear from you. Delve into our latest opportunities, here.
Recruitment offers a unique foundation for nearly any career path. Working in recruitment teaches a range of transferable skills that are valuable in various industries. Here’s how a career in recruitment can set you up for success, no matter where you go next:
1. Communication Skills
Recruitment requires constant communication with clients, candidates, and colleagues. You quickly learn how to:
Communicate effectively across different channels (phone, email, in person)
Adapt your tone and approach to suit different people
Listen actively and address concerns clearly
These communication skills are essential in almost every job and industry.
2. Negotiation and Persuasion
Recruitment involves negotiation—whether it’s salary discussions, job offers, or managing client expectations. You develop the ability to:
Negotiate terms in a way that benefits both parties
Persuade and influence others based on logic and emotion
These skills apply to sales, management, and leadership roles, among many others.
3. Problem-Solving
In recruitment, challenges arise regularly, whether it’s filling a tough role or handling difficult client demands. You’ll learn to:
Identify the root of the problem
Find creative solutions under time pressure
Think critically to resolve issues
Problem-solving is a crucial skill across all professions.
4. Time Management
Recruitment often involves juggling multiple clients, candidates, and deadlines. You quickly master the art of:
Prioritising tasks based on urgency
Managing competing demands effectively
Staying organised under pressure
This is useful in any fast-paced or high-demand role.
5. Networking
Building relationships is key in recruitment. Over time, you’ll:
Develop a strong professional network
Learn how to maintain relationships over time
Gain insights into various industries and job markets
Networking is a skill that benefits anyone looking to grow their career.
6. Resilience
The recruitment world can be tough—dealing with rejection, meeting targets, and managing fluctuating workloads. You’ll develop:
Mental toughness and the ability to stay focused
A proactive attitude toward overcoming setbacks
Resilience helps you thrive in high-pressure environments in any career.
7. Understanding People
You spend a lot of time interacting with different personalities in recruitment. This helps you:
Understand what motivates people
Identify skill sets, strengths, and weaknesses
Manage people effectively
These insights are valuable whether you go into leadership or any role that requires interpersonal skills. Explore our opportunities, here.
If you’re considering a move from sales to recruitment, you’re already equipped with valuable skills that can help you succeed. Recruitment shares many similarities with sales, from building relationships to achieving targets. Here are five transferable skills that will give you a head start in the recruitment industry.
1. Communication and Relationship Building
In sales, you’ve learned to:
Build trust with clients through clear and persuasive communication.
Understand client needs and tailor your approach accordingly.
Maintain relationships over time to encourage repeat business.
In recruitment, these skills help you connect with candidates and clients, ensuring you match the right people to the right opportunities.
2. Negotiation
Successful sales professionals know how to negotiate deals that work for everyone involved. This skill directly applies to recruitment, where you’ll:
Negotiate salaries, benefits, and contracts between candidates and employers.
Balance the expectations of both parties to create win-win outcomes.
Your ability to navigate these conversations can make placements smoother and more successful.
3. Target-Driven Mindset
Sales roles often involve meeting quotas and achieving KPIs. In recruitment, you’ll need the same focus on targets, including:
Filling roles within specific timeframes.
Achieving placement or revenue goals.
Building and maintaining a healthy pipeline of candidates and clients.
A competitive mindset and goal-oriented approach are key in both industries.
4. Problem-Solving
In sales, overcoming objections and finding solutions for clients are everyday tasks. Recruitment similarly requires:
Resolving mismatches between candidate skills and job requirements.
Addressing client concerns about candidates.
Adapting quickly to changing priorities or urgent roles.
Your problem-solving skills ensure you can tackle challenges effectively.
5. Time Management
Managing leads, calls, and meetings efficiently is a cornerstone of sales success. In recruitment, you’ll juggle:
Effective time management allows you to stay productive and meet deadlines.
Final Thoughts
Sales professionals often transition smoothly into recruitment because of these transferable skills. If you’re ready for a career that combines relationship-building, problem-solving, and achieving results, recruitment could be the perfect fit.
As an engineering professional, it’s easy to get comfortable in your current role. But staying too long in a job that no longer serves your career goals can hold you back. Here are five signs it might be time to look for new opportunities.
1. You’ve Stopped Growing
Engineering is a field that thrives on innovation and continuous learning. If you’re:
No longer challenged by your projects
Stuck in repetitive tasks with no scope for growth
Or not gaining new skills
It could mean your current role isn’t helping you progress. Growth stagnation often signals it’s time to move on.
2. Lack of Job Satisfaction
Your work should feel fulfilling. If you’re:
Dreading Mondays
Feeling disconnected from your projects
Or noticing a drop in motivation
It’s worth considering whether your role aligns with your interests and values.
3. No Clear Path Forward
A lack of advancement opportunities can be frustrating. Ask yourself:
Are promotions rare or non-existent?
Are you unsure about what’s next for your career?
Is the company’s vision misaligned with your goals?
If the answers point to a dead end, exploring new roles could open doors to leadership or specialised positions.
4. You’re Undervalued
Feeling undervalued is a common reason to seek change. Signs include:
Not being recognised for your contributions,
Receiving stagnant or below-market compensation,
Or being passed over for promotions.
In a competitive industry like engineering, your skills and effort should be appreciated.
5. Better Opportunities Are Available
Sometimes the decision to leave isn’t about dissatisfaction but about growth. Keep an eye on:
Roles offering higher pay or better benefits,
Opportunities to work on exciting projects,
Or companies with a stronger commitment to professional development.
The engineering market often has a wealth of options, so don’t be afraid to explore them.
Taking the Next Step
If these signs resonate, it’s time to assess your career direction. Research opportunities, update your CV, and connect with recruitment specialists who can help you find a role that matches your aspirations.
LinkedIn is a powerful tool for engineering professionals to showcase skills, connect with industry leaders, and find career opportunities. A strong profile can help you stand out in a competitive market. Here’s how to make the most of it:
1. Optimise Your Profile Basics
Professional Photo: Use a high-quality image in business attire or project-appropriate clothing.
Headline: Highlight your role and specialisms (e.g., “Civil Engineer | Rail Infrastructure Specialist”).
Location: Set your current location or target area to improve search visibility.
2. Craft a Strong Summary
Your summary is your elevator pitch. Include:
Key skills and expertise.
Notable projects or achievements.
Career aspirations and what sets you apart.
For example: “Experienced structural engineer with a track record of delivering complex infrastructure projects on time and within budget. Skilled in BIM and sustainable design.”
3. Highlight Experience and Achievements
Project-Specific Roles: Detail your contributions to major projects.
Metrics: Use numbers to quantify your impact (e.g., “Saved 20% in material costs by implementing alternative design solutions”).
Keywords: Include industry-relevant terms to improve searchability.
4. Leverage Recommendations and Skills
Request recommendations from supervisors, colleagues, or clients to validate your expertise.
List skills that align with your industry (e.g., AutoCAD, geotechnical engineering, project management).
Ask for endorsements to boost profile credibility.
5. Stay Active and Engage
Post Regular Updates: Share industry news, opinions, or your achievements.
Engage with Content: Comment on or share posts from peers and industry leaders.
Join Groups: Participate in engineering-related discussions to expand your network.
Final Thoughts
A well-maintained LinkedIn profile can open doors to new projects, partnerships, and career advancements. Invest time in presenting your professional brand effectively, and you’ll be well-placed to capitalise on opportunities in the engineering field.
The rail and construction sectors are evolving rapidly, driven by new technologies, sustainability demands, and stricter safety and compliance standards. At Advance TRS, we specialise in matching skilled professionals with roles that align with these evolving industry requirements. Here’s how we do it.
Understanding Industry Evolution
Key changes shaping rail and construction include:
Digital Transformation: Adoption of Building Information Modelling (BIM), digital twins, and automated systems.
Sustainability Goals: A focus on low-carbon construction, renewable energy integration, and sustainable materials.
Modern Safety Standards: Adherence to rigorous health and safety protocols across all project stages.
Infrastructure Investments: Projects like HS2 and smart city developments demand specialised expertise.
Our team stays ahead of these trends to deliver recruitment solutions that support innovation and compliance.
Tailored Recruitment for Rail
In the rail sector, we provide professionals skilled in:
Signalling and Telecommunications: Supporting modern train control systems and connectivity.
Civil Engineering: Expertise in geotechnical, structural design, and bridge construction.
Project Management: Leadership for large-scale infrastructure projects.
These roles are essential for the safe and efficient operation of the UK’s rail network.
Bespoke Solutions for Construction
For construction, we match candidates with expertise in:
Site Management: Coordinating project timelines, resources, and on-site safety.
Structural Engineering: Designing and assessing frameworks for durability and efficiency.
Quantity Surveying: Managing budgets and ensuring cost-effective delivery.
Sustainable Practices: Professionals with experience in green building techniques.
Whether it’s a commercial development or infrastructure upgrade, we source talent equipped to meet project goals.
A People-First Approach
We know that the right people make all the difference. Our recruitment process focuses on:
Client Collaboration: Understanding project requirements and business objectives.
Candidate Vetting: Ensuring professionals meet the technical and behavioural demands of the role.
Ongoing Support: Maintaining relationships with contractors and staff throughout their placements.
This approach helps us build long-term partnerships with both clients and candidates.
Adapting to Future Demands
As rail and construction industries embrace innovations like modular building and electrified transport systems, the need for adaptable, skilled professionals will only grow. Advance TRS is committed to connecting businesses with the talent they need to thrive in this dynamic environment.
Partner with Us
Looking to meet evolving industry standards in rail or construction? Let Advance TRS help you find the right skillsets to deliver success, here.
When it comes to infrastructure recruitment, Advance TRS stands out for delivering high-quality services tailored to the needs of clients, candidates, and contractors. Here’s how we differentiate ourselves:
Specialist Expertise
We focus exclusively on key infrastructure markets, including:
Rail
Energy and Renewables
Water and Environment
Bridges & Highways
Aviation
Buildings & Groundworks
This targeted approach ensures we understand the technical and regulatory challenges unique to each sector. We’re not generalists; we’re specialists who know what it takes to deliver successful placements for complex projects.
Comprehensive Recruitment Solutions
Our services go beyond filling roles. We offer:
Permanent and Contract Recruitment: Matching skilled professionals with the right opportunities.
Recruitment Process Outsourcing (RPO): Streamlining hiring for businesses.
Managed Services and Consultancy: Supporting project delivery through roles like programme management, design, and commercial contract management.
We work with some of the UK’s leading infrastructure companies, including Network Rail, Balfour Beatty, and Kier Group. Our track record speaks for itself.
Quality-Driven Approach
Advance TRS is built on a foundation of:
Integrity: We deliver honest, transparent recruitment services.
Commitment: We’re dedicated to finding the right match for every role.
Collaboration: We work closely with clients and candidates to achieve shared success.
Our rigorous processes mean every candidate is thoroughly vetted, and every client receives a tailored recruitment strategy.
Industry Knowledge
Infrastructure markets are constantly evolving, with emerging trends in sustainability, digital transformation, and workforce diversity. Our team stays ahead of these changes to provide informed recruitment solutions that meet modern demands.
People-Centric Focus
We’re more than a recruitment consultancy. We build lasting relationships by:
Supporting career development for candidates
Helping clients meet their long-term hiring goals
Providing contractors with consistent opportunities
Proven Results
With over a decade of experience, Advance TRS has achieved year-on-year growth. We’ve earned a reputation for:
Placing top talent in critical infrastructure roles
Supporting major infrastructure projects with skilled professionals
Delivering recruitment solutions that make a measurable impact
Ready to Partner?
Whether you’re a candidate looking for your next opportunity, a contractor seeking projects, or a client in need of expert recruitment support, Advance TRS has the expertise and resources to help you succeed.
Advance TRS is excited to announce the launch of our dedicated MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Public Health) Building Services desk, a strategic step in expanding our expertise across the built environment. This desk enhances our ability to provide high-quality staffing solutions to a variety of specialised roles, supporting both clients and candidates in the building services sector.
We’re delighted to welcome Darryll Gibson, Principal Consultant for MEP Building Services, to drive this market expansion. Darryll brings over 12 years of recruitment experience, with a proven track record of connecting skilled professionals with key opportunities in building services engineering. His deep understanding of technical disciplines, combined with his consultative approach, will ensure the success of this desk.
Meeting the Industry’s Needs
Our MEP Building Services desk focuses on providing recruitment solutions for an extensive range of roles, including:
Electrical Design Engineers
HVAC Design Engineers
Public Health Design Engineers
Revit CAD Coordinators and Microstation Operators
Fire Engineers
Sustainability Engineers
Clerks of Works
Commercial Managers
Commissioning Engineers
Mechanical Engineers
MEP Resident Engineers
By concentrating on these specialised disciplines, we’re committed to helping clients secure the talent they need to deliver successful projects while supporting candidates in advancing their careers.
Enhancing Our Recruitment Expertise
This launch strengthens Advance TRS’s position as a recruitment leader in key infrastructure markets, including rail, water, construction, and now MEP building services. By leveraging Darryll’s expertise and network, we’re well-placed to address the increasing demand for technical professionals in complex, high-value projects.
A Bright Future Ahead
The MEP Building Services desk follows the Advance TRS model, offering tailored recruitment services, including permanent placements, contract recruitment, and executive search. Whether you’re looking to hire for a specific project or seeking your next opportunity in building services, our team is ready to deliver.
Advance TRS Director, Rob Kelly shares: “Our success is built on the knowledge and expertise of our team. Darryll’s addition strengthens our ability to provide consultative and collaborative recruitment solutions in the building services sector, and we’re excited about what this means for the future.”
With the launch of the MEP Building Services desk, Advance TRS continues to expand its reach, offering unparalleled recruitment solutions across the UK and Ireland’s built environment.
Connect with us today to explore how we can support your recruitment or career goals.
The infrastructure sector is booming, with numerous projects underway and more on the horizon. However, this rapid growth is being held back by a significant challenge—skills shortages. With the demand for skilled professionals in fields like rail, construction, and energy outpacing supply, many businesses are struggling to find the right talent to complete their projects on time and within budget.
At Advance TRS, we recognise this challenge and have developed strategies to help our clients navigate the talent gap in today’s tight market.
The Skills Shortage Challenge
The infrastructure industry is experiencing an acute shortage of qualified professionals across various disciplines. The shortage is especially pronounced in specialised areas like civil engineering, project management, signalling and telecommunications, and construction management. With many workers in the sector nearing retirement and few new professionals entering, businesses face heightened competition for the available talent, which often leads to project delays.
Organisations need a recruitment partner who understands the industry’s complexities and can access a wide pool of skilled candidates. That’s where we come in.
At Advance TRS, our industry expertise and extensive network enable us to effectively address the skills gap. Here’s how we help clients find the right talent:
Industry Expertise and Network
Our team consists of professionals with a deep understanding of the built environment and infrastructure sectors. This allows us to quickly identify candidates with the right skills and experience. We don’t just focus on qualifications—we consider cultural fit, ensuring the talent we source aligns with our clients’ values and team dynamics.
Proactive Talent Sourcing
In a competitive market, sourcing talent often requires a proactive approach. We engage with candidates who may not be actively job hunting but are open to discussing future opportunities. For example, when a rail sector client needed a signalling design engineer, we tapped into our specialised network and found an experienced candidate who had worked on large infrastructure projects. This candidate had the technical expertise and experience to integrate quickly into the team.
Building a Sustainable Talent Pipeline
At Advance TRS, we don’t just fill current vacancies; we focus on building long-term talent pipelines. We collaborate with educational institutions and industry bodies to promote careers in infrastructure, helping attract new professionals to the sector. Through partnerships with universities and training programmes, we’re helping to nurture the next generation of skilled workers.
Our ongoing engagement with candidates ensures that we have access to a steady stream of potential talent, keeping them informed about industry developments and future opportunities.
Supporting Clients in a Competitive Market
As skills shortages continue to challenge the infrastructure sector, Advance TRS is committed to helping clients find the right talent to meet their needs. By combining our expertise, proactive approach, and long-term talent strategies, we’re ensuring that our clients can overcome these challenges and deliver their projects successfully.
Partner with us to navigate today’s talent acquisition challenges and secure the skilled professionals you need to succeed. Explore our services, here.
At Advance TRS, we see ourselves as more than just a recruitment agency. Our focus goes beyond simply filling positions; we strive to be a trusted partner to our clients, offering tailored recruitment solutions while nurturing long-term relationships. Here’s how our approach sets us apart and allows us to deliver exceptional value to our clients.
Putting Clients First
Our consultative model starts with a deep understanding of our clients’ specific needs. Rather than just filling vacancies, we engage with each business to understand their unique challenges, goals, and culture. This allows us to provide recruitment solutions that are closely aligned with the company’s objectives and specific role requirements.
Through consistent communication and collaboration, we seamlessly integrate with our clients’ teams. By providing strategic insights and advice, we help shape their recruitment strategies, allowing us to stay ahead of trends and provide ongoing value throughout the hiring process.
Commitment to Quality at Every Stage
At Advance TRS, we know the importance of quality in recruitment. From the first point of contact, we’re focused on delivering a high standard of service. We follow a rigorous vetting process to ensure that every candidate we present is technically qualified and a strong cultural fit.
Our dedication to quality ensures that the candidates we place contribute not only to the immediate success of the role but to the long-term success of the organisation. This commitment strengthens the trust we build with clients and reinforces our ongoing relationships.
For us, success is measured by the lasting relationships we create. We take pride in being a long-term partner, not just a transactional service provider. By keeping communication channels open and delivering consistent results, we foster relationships that grow stronger over time.
Our consultative model doesn’t end once a placement is made. We continue to engage with both the candidate and the client, ensuring smooth transitions and offering support where needed. This proactive approach helps build trust, ensures long-term success, and solidifies our role as a trusted partner.
Experience the Value of a Trusted Partner
At Advance TRS, we’re about more than just recruitment—we’re about partnership and collaboration. By taking a consultative approach, we work closely with our clients to ensure a seamless recruitment experience that delivers long-term success. Our focus on understanding client needs, providing exceptional service, and building lasting relationships sets us apart.
Discover how our approach can make a difference for you—explore the services we offer here.
As an engineer, your portfolio is your chance to showcase your expertise and prove your capabilities to potential employers. A strong portfolio highlights relevant projects, demonstrates your technical skills, and reflects your professional approach to problem-solving. Here’s how to craft one that stands out.
1. Focus on Relevant Projects
Include projects that are directly related to the type of engineering roles you’re applying for. Employers want to see your experience aligns with their needs.
Highlight projects that solve problems similar to those in the role you’re targeting.
For each project, include a clear description, objectives, and outcomes.
Quantify your results wherever possible (e.g., “Reduced system downtime by 25%”).
2. Demonstrate Technical Skills
Your portfolio should showcase your technical expertise through the tools, techniques, and methodologies you’ve used.
List specific technologies, programming languages, or equipment used in each project.
Include diagrams, CAD models, or screenshots that illustrate your work.
If applicable, link to a GitHub repository or other digital platform where employers can explore your code or designs.
Clear and professional visuals can make your portfolio more engaging and easier to understand.
Use images of completed projects, prototypes, or test setups.
Incorporate annotated diagrams to explain complex concepts.
Keep visuals consistent in style and quality throughout.
4. Tailor It for Each Application
Different roles may require different emphases. Tailor your portfolio to showcase the most relevant skills and projects for each position.
For example, for a structural engineering role, focus on projects with load analysis and construction documentation. For an electronics position, emphasise circuit design and testing.
Adjust the order of your portfolio to feature the most impactful projects first.
How you present your portfolio matters as much as its content.
Organise your portfolio into clear sections (e.g., About Me, Key Projects, Skills).
Include a brief introduction for context. For example, “I specialise in renewable energy systems, focusing on efficiency and sustainability.”
Use a professional, clean layout to ensure it’s easy to read.
Bonus Tip: Keep It Up-to-Date
Your portfolio should reflect your latest experience and skills. Regularly update it with new projects and remove outdated or less relevant ones.
Why Your Portfolio Matters
A well-crafted engineering portfolio does more than just show your skills—it sets you apart from other candidates. It gives employers confidence in your abilities and provides concrete evidence of your expertise. Take the time to create a portfolio that leaves a lasting impression.
Looking to advance your career? Check out our jobs available, here.
Recruitment and sales share a fundamental principle: success depends on effective communication. If you have a background in sales, the skills you’ve developed—like active listening, persuasion, and managing relationships—provide a strong foundation for a career in recruitment. Here’s how these skills translate seamlessly to the recruitment world.
In sales, listening to your client’s needs is essential for closing deals. Recruitment works the same way. Understanding what a client wants in a candidate—or what a candidate seeks in a role—requires you to actively listen, not just hear. Asking the right follow-up questions and showing genuine interest builds trust and helps you uncover insights that lead to better matches.
Persuasion
Sales experience equips you with the art of persuasion, a key skill in recruitment. Whether you’re encouraging a client to consider a candidate outside the original brief or helping a candidate see the benefits of a particular role, your ability to present compelling arguments makes all the difference. Effective persuasion isn’t about being pushy; it’s about understanding needs and framing solutions in a way that resonates.
Building Relationships
Strong relationships are central to both sales and recruitment. In sales, you work to build trust with clients to secure repeat business. In recruitment, the relationships you develop with candidates and clients create long-term partnerships. Your sales background likely taught you how to nurture these connections, handle objections, and maintain a professional rapport—skills that are just as important when managing recruitment pipelines.
Tailoring Your Communication
Salespeople excel at adapting their pitch to suit different audiences, and this adaptability is crucial in recruitment. You might need to explain technical roles to candidates with limited industry knowledge or present a candidate’s strengths to a sceptical client. Tailored communication ensures your message lands effectively, no matter who you’re speaking to.
Handling Rejections
Both sales and recruitment come with their fair share of rejections. Your experience in sales likely taught you to handle “no” professionally and pivot to the next opportunity. In recruitment, this resilience helps you stay motivated when placements don’t work out and keeps you focused on finding the right solution.
Why Communication Matters in Recruitment
Recruitment is about connecting the right people to the right opportunities, and communication is the glue that holds everything together. Sales experience gives you the tools to engage effectively with people, adapt to their needs, and build trust. These skills help you not just succeed in recruitment but thrive.
If you’re considering a career in recruitment, your sales background may already have set you up for success. Ready to take the leap? Get in touch to learn more about recruitment opportunities with us, here.
Recruitment is often seen as a role focused on matching candidates to jobs, but it’s far more dynamic than that. A career in recruitment equips you with a diverse range of skills that you might not anticipate when starting out. These abilities can shape you into a well-rounded professional, opening doors to other industries and leadership roles. Here are five unexpected skills you’ll gain as a recruiter:
1. Negotiation
Recruitment is all about balancing the needs of candidates and clients. You’ll regularly negotiate salaries, benefits, and start dates, finding solutions that work for everyone involved. These negotiations often go beyond numbers, requiring you to manage expectations and align interests delicately. Over time, you’ll develop a confident and persuasive approach to handling these conversations, a skill that’s invaluable in business, sales, and leadership roles.
2. Emotional Intelligence
Recruitment puts you in the middle of people’s career journeys, often during moments of change or uncertainty. You’ll need to understand motivations, read body language, and respond empathetically to concerns. Emotional intelligence becomes second nature, allowing you to build trust and maintain strong relationships with both candidates and clients. This skill isn’t just about connecting with others—it’s about managing your own emotions during high-pressure situations, which is essential for professional growth.
3. Time Management
Recruiters juggle a lot—multiple vacancies, competing client deadlines, and candidate communications. You’ll quickly learn how to prioritise tasks, work efficiently, and manage your time effectively. With so many moving parts, recruitment sharpens your ability to keep things running smoothly without missing key details. This level of organisation and adaptability is highly transferable to project management, operations, and other demanding roles.
4. Industry Expertise
When you recruit for a specific sector, you gain a deep understanding of that field. You’ll learn about industry trends, technical jargon, and what top talent looks like for various roles. Over time, this knowledge makes you a trusted advisor to clients and candidates alike. Whether it’s construction, telecoms, or finance, this expertise sets you apart as someone who doesn’t just fill jobs but truly understands the market.
5. Resilience
Recruitment is a high-pressure field with plenty of highs and lows. Candidates might drop out at the last minute, or clients could change their requirements unexpectedly. These challenges teach you to bounce back quickly, stay positive, and focus on the next opportunity. Resilience is an underrated skill, but it’s crucial for thriving in any fast-paced or competitive environment.
The skills you develop in recruitment aren’t limited to the job itself. They can enhance your performance in other industries, strengthen your ability to lead, and make you more effective in building meaningful professional relationships. Recruitment doesn’t just grow your career—it equips you with tools that stay with you for life.
This year has been packed with achievements, new ventures, and memorable moments. From celebrating our team’s successes to expanding into new markets, we’ve strengthened our position in the built environment sector. Here’s a look back at 2024’s highlights.
Staff Achievements
Anniversaries:
We celebrated the dedication and contributions of four of our team members reaching career milestones. Our Rail & Infrastructure Director, Sam Jennings, achieved an impressive 10 years of service, whilst Katie Walker, Sean Brown and Jake Rodger all marked 5 years at Advance TRS!
Promotions:
Many of our team members advanced in their careers, this year. Congratulations to:
Michelle Marsh – Head of Payroll Accounts & Credit Control
Louise Oldham – Lead Delivery Manager
Josh Hill – Lead Principal Consultant
Ella Gilbody – Group Business Operations Director
Michael Schruyers – Group Sales Operations Director
Chris Spurdle – Group Business Development Manager
Maia Devonshire – Senior Recruitment Resourcer
Charlie Knight – Delivery Team Leader
Alex Shaw – Lead Principal Consultant
Calum French – Senior Recruitment Resourcer
Charlotte Tunstall – Compliance Executive
Everyone’s commitment and impact have been invaluable, and we’re proud to recognise their achievements.
New Starters:
We also welcomed fresh talent to our Sales and Business Services Teams: Jade Freer, Jessica McMahon, Callum Meek, Tommy Hurst, Elia Corkery, Billy Mitchell, Darryll Gibson, and Kirsten Lynch. We’re excited to have them on board and look forward to their contributions in the years ahead.
Company Highlights
This year saw two exciting launches for us – being milestones that demonstrate our ongoing commitment to growth, innovation, and delivering tailored solutions across the built environment.
The Launch of CITILINE: In February, we expanded our service portfolio with the introduction of CITILINE, a specialist Telecommunications and M&E recruitment consultancy. Led by Ben Shayegan, who has spent the last decade building his expertise at Advance TRS, CITILINE combines industry insight with an extensive network to deliver top-tier technical professionals. This new brand reflects our commitment to providing quality recruitment solutions across a growing range of industries.
Energy & Renewables Desk: We also launched a dedicated Energy & Renewables desk to meet the needs of this fast-evolving sector. Jake Jessey, with over 27 years of technical recruitment experience, now leads this division, supported by a team of industry experts. From Offshore Wind Engineers to HV Transmission specialists, we’re connecting businesses with the talent needed to power the future.
This year, we came together for many key events and celebrations. In April, we kicked things off with a company-wide conference, followed by a summer gathering at the beautiful Albury Vineyard. To close the year, our October conference took a creative twist as we hired out an Odeon cinema screen to spotlight everyone’s achievements and highlight company successes from the past quarter.
Incentives and Trips:
We enjoyed some fantastic incentives and trips this year to celebrate our teams hard-work, including a visit to the South of France for our 100% Club and a festive outing to Winter Wonderland for the winners of our Christmas Quiz incentive.
Community and Charity Initiatives
On the charity front, we continued our charity efforts with the 4th annual Advance TRS Golf Day in partnership with Railway Children, raising an impressive £30,000. Other initiatives included the Dragon Boat Race for WaterAid and some of the Guildford team taking part in Movember. Altogether, we’ve raised £108,068 for charity and are excited to continue fundraising for charities close to our hearts in 2025.
Alongside our fundraising efforts, Sam Riley’s volunteer work with Young Rail Professionals has been a standout example of community involvement this year. He played a key role in organising events like the Chrome Angel Solutions Digital AI event in London, which brought together rail professionals to promote collaboration and innovation. His ongoing contributions to YRP reflect Advance TRS’s values and commitment to supporting industry growth and professional development.
We ended the year on a high by being named Recruitment Firm of the Year at the Growing Business Awards. This recognition highlights the dedication and expertise of our team. Being acknowledged alongside leading organisations underscores the impact of our work and inspires us to keep delivering exceptional results for our clients, candidates, and contractors.
2024 has been a year of progress and success, driven by the dedication of our team and the support of our clients, candidates, and contractors. As we wrap up the year, we’re excited to build on this momentum for an even better 2025.
We are delighted to announce that Advance TRS and CITILINE have been recommended for full recertification of ISO 45001 (Health & Safety) and ISO 27001 (Information Security) following a rigorous two-day audit. Impressively, no non-conformances or areas for improvement were identified, underscoring our commitment to operational excellence.
Achieving ISO 45001 demonstrates our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of health and safety across our operations. This is vital for protecting our staff, clients, contractors, and candidates in often challenging industries such as rail, water, environment, highways, energy, and telecoms.
ISO 27001 highlights our dedication to safeguarding information and data security. In a world where data breaches and cyber threats are on the rise, this certification reassures our clients and stakeholders that their information is handled with the utmost care.
These certifications not only solidify our reputation as a trusted recruitment partner but also enable us to maintain our place on key Preferred Supplier Lists (PSLs) and frameworks. This means our clients can have confidence in our systems, processes, and ability to deliver safe, secure, and reliable services.
Maintaining these high standards requires hard work and collaboration. A huge thank you to everyone who works hard year-round to uphold these management systems, and to those who supported the audit process by answering questions and demonstrating our commitment to compliance.
A special congratulations goes to our Health & Safety Manager, Lauren, and our Group Business Operations Director, Ella Gardiner, for their exceptional work on our information security systems – the auditor’s positive feedback led to a reduced audit schedule, recognising the efficiency and excellence of the systems in place.
With this achievement secured, our focus now turns to preparing for the upcoming RISQS audit in three weeks. We remain committed to continuous improvement, ensuring we deliver the best possible service for our clients, candidates, and contractors.
If you’d like to learn more about how our certifications support our work across our sectors, head here.
Recruitment offers a level of variety and unpredictability that keeps the job fresh and engaging. No two days are the same, thanks to the mix of tasks, challenges, and opportunities to work with people. If you enjoy a fast-moving environment with plenty of variety, it’s a career worth considering.
A Mix of Tasks Every Day
As a recruiter, your day could involve:
Sourcing candidates: Using job boards, LinkedIn, and your network to find the right talent.
Screening CVs and conducting interviews: Evaluating skills, experience, and cultural fit.
Building relationships: Speaking with clients to understand their needs and candidates to support their career goals.
Negotiating offers: Acting as a mediator to align expectations and finalise placements.
Recruitment is inherently unpredictable. Candidates can drop out of interviews, clients may change their requirements, or new roles can suddenly land in your lap. Success often depends on your ability to adapt quickly and find solutions.
Recruitment isn’t just about filling roles; it’s about connecting people to opportunities. On one side, you’re a trusted advisor to candidates, helping them navigate their careers. On the other, you’re a partner to businesses, ensuring they find the talent they need to thrive. This dual focus means your role is always evolving.
Celebrating Wins
From placing a candidate in their dream role to helping a client achieve their hiring goals, recruitment has tangible rewards. These moments of success make the effort worth it and motivate you to tackle the next challenge.
Why It Works for the Right People
If you enjoy problem-solving, working with people, and thrive in a fast-moving environment, recruitment might be the career for you. It’s challenging, but the variety and unpredictability make it a job where you’ll never feel stuck in a routine.
Ready for a career where no two days are the same? Explore opportunities to join our team, here.
Finding the right role in competitive industries like construction, rail, and water can feel overwhelming. A recruitment consultancy, especially those specialising in technical sectors, offer tailored support to help you secure the right position. Here’s how working with a specialist consultancy like Advance TRS can benefit your career search.
1. Access to Exclusive Job Opportunities
Many companies rely on recruitment consultancies to fill roles that aren’t advertised publicly. This means consultancies like Advance TRS can connect you with positions you won’t find on job boards or through general searches. These exclusive roles are often with leading employers, giving you the chance to apply for projects and positions that directly match your skills and experience.
Specialist consultancies understand the industries they recruit for inside out. Advance TRS focuses on sectors such as rail, infrastructure, and energy, so we know what employers are looking for, from certifications to soft skills. This expertise ensures you’re matched with roles suited to your capabilities, while also giving you valuable insights into market trends, expected salaries, and in-demand skills.
Working with a consultancy means you’re not navigating the recruitment process alone. From helping you create a standout CV to offering interview preparation tailored to the employer, a recruitment consultancy provides personalised support. They also assist in negotiating job offers, ensuring you secure the best possible terms. This hands-on guidance can boost your confidence and make the entire process less stressful.
Searching for jobs, tailoring applications, and keeping track of deadlines can be time-consuming. Recruitment consultancies streamline this process by actively searching for roles on your behalf and managing applications. This leaves you free to focus on preparation or personal commitments, knowing that someone is working behind the scenes to find the right opportunities for you.
5. A Partner for Long-Term Career Growth
The relationship with a recruitment consultancy doesn’t have to end after you land a job. Consultancies like Advance TRS aim to build long-term connections with candidates, offering advice on career progression and letting you know about future opportunities that match your ambitions. This ongoing partnership can help you stay informed about the industry and develop your career over time.
Why Choose Advance TRS?
Advance TRS has a proven track record in connecting skilled professionals with leading built environment companies and projects. Our team works closely with candidates to provide a professional, consultative, and personable service. From CV advice to post-placement support, we’re committed to helping you achieve your career goals.
Ready to take the next step? Explore our latest opportunities, here.
If you’re thinking about a career in recruitment, it’s easy to assume the job is all about finding people to fill roles. In reality, recruitment is much more dynamic and rewarding. It’s about building relationships, shaping careers, and influencing industries. Here’s why recruitment is a strategic, consultative career that’s far more than just filling vacancies.
Building Partnerships with Clients
As a recruiter, you’ll work closely with businesses to help them build teams that align with their goals. It’s not just about placing people—it’s about understanding what the company needs to thrive.
Advising on hiring strategies: You’ll guide clients on the skills, salaries, and structures needed to stay competitive.
Shaping roles: Many clients rely on recruiters to refine job descriptions to attract the best talent.
Planning ahead: Recruitment involves anticipating what businesses will need in the future and helping them prepare.
Recruitment isn’t just about ticking boxes for job requirements. It’s about helping people take the next step in their careers. You’ll act as a career coach, guiding candidates toward opportunities they might not have considered.
Identifying potential: You’ll help candidates see how their skills apply to new roles or industries.
Advising on development: Suggesting courses, certifications, or experiences can help candidates become stronger applicants.
Providing feedback: Constructive feedback from you can help candidates improve and succeed, even if they don’t get the role they applied for.
Influencing Industry Trends
Recruitment keeps you at the centre of industry trends. You’ll gain insights into what businesses need and where the market is heading. This knowledge allows you to shape how industries evolve.
Help businesses adapt to new technologies or changing regulations.
Promote diversity and inclusion by championing underrepresented talent.
Guide clients and candidates through economic or market shifts.
Recruitment is about connecting the right people with the right opportunities, but it’s also about making an impact. You’ll help businesses succeed, support candidates in reaching their goals, and contribute to shaping industries.
If you’re ready for a career that’s challenging, rewarding, and impactful, recruitment could be the perfect fit for you – check out our work for us page to find out about our current opportunities, here.
Recruitment isn’t always straightforward. Beyond finding the right skills for the job, recruiters face unique challenges that can complicate even the best-laid plans. At Advance TRS, we’ve developed ways to handle these issues efficiently, ensuring our clients and candidates both get the best possible experience – looking at 5 unexpected challenges in recruitment.
1. Managing Candidate Expectations
Candidates often come with set ideas about salary, benefits, or role progression. Balancing these expectations with market realities can be a challenge.
Our Approach: We start with honest, transparent conversations about salary ranges, role requirements, and growth potential. By setting realistic expectations from the start, we help candidates see the full picture and reduce the chance of surprises later in the process.
2. Balancing Client Needs with Candidate Fit
Clients often want very specific skills or experience, but matching these exact needs with candidate availability isn’t always possible.
Our Approach: We focus on understanding the core requirements and identifying transferrable skills that could also benefit the client. By presenting flexible options and explaining how candidates’ experiences can align with the client’s goals, we maintain a strong balance between exact needs and realistic matches.
In a competitive market, good candidates often receive counteroffers from their current employers when they announce plans to leave.
Our Approach: We prepare candidates for this possibility by discussing it early on, helping them weigh the pros and cons. If a counteroffer does come in, we guide them to consider their long-term goals, making the decision that’s genuinely best for them—not just the highest offer on the table.
The built environment can experience rapid changes in demand due to new regulations or project funding shifts.
Our Approach: We stay informed on industry trends and client pipeline needs, which allows us to anticipate shifts and adjust our recruiting approach. Our agility ensures we have a proactive plan, keeping placements steady even in a fluctuating market.
The work doesn’t end after a candidate is placed; support during onboarding and early stages is just as important for a successful placement.
Our Approach: We keep communication open with both clients and candidate’s post-placement. By checking in regularly, we ensure everything is on track, address any early concerns, and maintain long-term relationships that make future placements even smoother.
Recruitment is full of unexpected challenges, but at Advance TRS, we thrive on tackling them head-on. By staying proactive, transparent, and flexible, we ensure that both our clients and candidates have the best experience possible. Our ability to manage expectations, balance competing needs, and provide ongoing support makes us a reliable partner in the recruitment process. No matter the challenge, we’re here to find the right solution and deliver the results you need.
If you think you’re up for these recruitment hurdles, check out our Work for Us page to see current opportunities!
The infrastructure sector, whilst experiencing a surge in demand due to ongoing and upcoming projects, is also experiencing an increasingly prevalent situation of skills shortages – posing significant challenges for companies hoping to deliver projects on time and within budget.
As industries like rail, construction, and energy expand, the demand for skilled professionals continues to outweigh supply, making it essential for businesses to partner with recruitment specialists who understand these unique challenges. At Advance TRS, we leverage our expertise and extensive network to help clients source the right talent in this tight market.
Understanding the Challenge of Skills Shortages
With the projects there and ready to be manned, the growth is hampered by a critical shortage of skilled professionals across various disciplines, including engineering, project management, and technical roles. The challenge is particularly acute in specialised fields such as signalling and telecommunications, civil engineering, and construction management, where qualified candidates are becoming increasingly difficult to find.
Many companies are facing the realities of an aging workforce, coupled with a lack of new entrants into the industry. This creates a perfect storm, resulting in heightened competition for talent and delays in project delivery. To map out these turbulent waters, organisations need a recruitment partner that not only understands the nuances of the infrastructure landscape but also has the capability to tap into a broad talent pool.
How Advance TRS Stands Out
At Advance TRS, our deep industry knowledge and extensive professional network allows us to effectively bridge the gap between talent supply and demand. We take a consultative approach to recruitment, understanding each client’s specific needs and challenges, and tailoring our strategies accordingly.
Leveraging Industry Expertise
Our team consists of professionals with extensive experience in the built environment and infrastructure sectors – enabling us to identify candidates with the right skills and experience quickly. We focus not just on qualifications but also on cultural fit, ensuring that the talent we source aligns with our clients’ values and work environments.
Sourcing Hard-to-Find Talent
In recent projects, we have successfully sourced candidates for roles that are hard to fill, demonstrating our ability to navigate the skills shortage effectively. For instance, when a client in the rail sector needed a signalling design engineer, we leveraged our specialised network to identify a top candidate who had previously worked on major infrastructure projects. This individual possessed not only the technical skills required but also the experience necessary to integrate seamlessly into the client’s team.
By approaching recruitment with a proactive mindset, we can often uncover talent that isn’t actively seeking new opportunities but is open to engaging in conversations about their next career move.
Building a Sustainable Talent Pipeline
Advance TRS is committed to not just filling immediate vacancies but also building sustainable talent pipelines for our clients. We work closely with educational institutions and industry bodies to promote careers in the built environment, aiming to attract new entrants into the workforce. Our initiatives include partnerships with universities and training programs, where we help nurture the next generation of skilled professionals.
Our candidate engagement strategies ensure that we maintain strong relationships with potential candidates, keeping them up to date with industry trends and opportunities.
As skills shortages continue to challenge the infrastructure sectors, Advance TRS remains dedicated to sourcing the right talent in a tight market. By combining our industry expertise with an extensive network and proactive recruitment strategies, we empower our clients to overcome these obstacles and achieve their project goals.
Partner with us to navigate the complexities of talent acquisition in today’s demanding environment and secure the skilled professionals you need to thrive, here!
Returning for the 4th year in a row, raising £30,000 – on Thursday 3rd October – we partnered directly with Railway Children for the annual Advance TRS Golf Day at Celtic Manor in Wales.
With an 11 am shotgun start, the golfers throughout the day, took part in a series of competitions with entry fees that went directly to Railway Children – including Nearest the Pin, Longest Drive and Beat the Pro.
The Course
Roman Road course – a 70-par challenge that overlooks the Severn Estuary with views across to Somerset and Devon. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Senior, this challenging course features some long open fairways but also a number of twists and turns through trees and across streams.
The Evening – Speakers
In the evening, we were delighted to have two guest speakers join us and share their insights and stories on their past successes.
Mark Wild OBE – CEO of HS2
Mark Wild has more than 35 years of experience leading complex and critical infrastructure. He assumed the CEO leadership role at Crossrail in 2018, Europe’s largest construction project and a £20 billion programme delivering one of the world’s most advanced digital passenger railways. Mark joined the team for golf and kindly spoke after dinner, answering questions from business leaders across the rail sector.
Ronnie Irani is a retired English cricketer who garnered much praise for his impact in One Day Internationals from the mid-90’s to the early 2000’s. Ronnie joined the team for a couple of days of golf and brought his dynamic energy to the event.
This year we took the opportunity to introduce our new brand, Advance TRS Management Consultancy, to the attendees. Advance TRS Management Consultancy is a bespoke service that builds upon our legacy of excellence in recruitment to offer unparalleled expertise in Project/Programme Management, Commercial, and Contract Management within the built environment, with a particular focus on transport and aviation infrastructure.
We would like to thank our sponsors who have made this feat possible not only this year but for the last 4 years and to AECOM, AtkinsRéalis, Balfour Beatty, Bam Nuttall, Clipfine, GHD, Gleeds, Mace, Dragados, Turner & Townsend and Vinci Construction for the support this year.
Railway Children
Railway Children has been fighting for children alone and at risk on the street for over 25 years. During this time, they have reached more than 275,000 children in India, the UK, and East Africa.
Children run away or are forced to leave home, where they suffer poverty, violence, and neglect. They find themselves living on the streets because there is nowhere else to, and no one left to turn to. The problems they face on the streets are often even worse than those they endured at home. Every day they fight to change their story.
Rail Aid is a major fundraising initiative in support of Railway Children, the Rail industry’s charity. It was launched in direct response to the Covid-19 outbreak, which has made our work with vulnerable young people even more vital.
Advance TRS founder, Andy Ridout and a few other members of our team have completed numerous challenges such as climbing Mt Everest and Kilimanjaro, Ride Vietnam Challenge, Three Peaks By Rail 2023. These are just some of the amazing challenges we have done to raise funds for Railway Children.
Supporting charities is a core element of life at Advance TRS, Since its establishment, our staff has raised over £100,000 for charities including Railway Children and Action for Children. Taking on personal challenges and fundraising activities to advance others has been a core founding principle and staff are encouraged to support charitable causes.
Advance TRS are always looking for more people to join the team, Find out more about our latest vacancies.
Advance TRS are delighted to welcome experienced rail industry recruiter, Chris Spurdle to join the business as Business Development Manager – Rail. Chris has over 14 years experience in the rail industry predominantly working in the rail civils and permanent way specialism and joins Advance TRS to focus on white collar recruitment in rail civils and permanent way.
Chris is looking forward to progressing his industry knowledge and network from the blue-collar and labour side of the rail sector into white-collar recruitment.
“This is an exciting new opportunity to build on the established reputation I have built in the blue collar and labour market, and a natural continuation of my work in the sector.”
Explains Chris.
Chris will be focused on business development, supporting the current team building on established relationships and also bid development. Chris Spurdle will also be the main point of contact for a new client partnership Advance TRS have recently secured providing construction managers, project managers, civils, permanent way, signalling, planning and commercial engineering professionals into key rail projects across the UK rail network. These projects range across the UK & Ireland from a couple of million budgets to major infrastructure projects with budgets up to 200 million.
“We are delighted to welcome Chris into the Advance TRS team, and more personally, I am so pleased to work with him in the business development team. His experience and industry knowledge will prove to be a great asset to our business.”
Shares Business Development Director, Michael Schruyers.
When asked why Chris chose to join Advance TRS, Chris explained:
“I wanted to work for a specialist company, a niche recruiter. It was important for me to join a flexible and agile business where the team are skilled, well networked and have the ability to support clients throughout the process rather than a large corporate business. Advance TRS offer all this and have a really good team, both in sales and business services, and provide a positive work environment.”
Chris Spurdle will be supporting the business development team across the full spectrum of permanent and contract supply, both in rail and also reaching across the wider infrastructure piece.
Chris goes on to say:
“I love the ambition and trajectory Advance TRS offer as a growing SME. It gives me an exciting opportunity to play a key role in the business growth trajectory and adding value. Everyone has been so helpful and welcoming – particularly Jake and Josh who I have been working with a lot, and have helped me settle in. The business services support and payroll teams are brilliant too – shout out to everybody!”
Join Advance TRS
If you are looking for a new opportunity to further your career with an established and growing business providing quality recruitment solutions in the built environment and engineering markets, we are always looking for new talented staff to join our team. Find out what it is like to work for us and see our live opportunities.
Expert Rail Recruiters
Advance TRS know the rail industry like no one else. We work with some of the world’s biggest engineering organisations, creating bespoke recruitment solutions for some of the UK’s biggest rail projects.
Our team of experts are well established in the sector and expertly networked to ensure the best results for clients every time with specialisms focused on signalling, telecoms, E&P, OLE, Civils, M&E, Pway and Project Services. With over 400 contractors working across the UK rail network we are proud to be committed to high safety standards.
The new London office will be a permanent office for some of our Rail recruitment business and provide a base for other members of the team who have meetings in London.
The new office is led by Specialist Consultant in the Rail & Civil Engineering Industry, Craig Outhwaite. Craig joined Advance TRS in autumn 2021 and after one year is stepping up into this new role. Craig focuses on the recruitment of freelance Quantity Surveyors and Commercial professionals across the UK.
“I’m really proud and excited to open and grow a London Branch for the company. London excites me, you can’t help but feel invigorated heading into the city each morning. The market is really busy and we are now expertly positioned to meet all our clients and candidates as needed”
Shares Craig.
Craig is joined by Victoria Bartram (nee. Satterley), who joined Advance TRS earlier this month after a few years out to grow her family, Victoria is a brilliant addition to the team and back with a bang!
“I’m very excited to of joined Advance TRS and to be involved in the opening of our new London office with Craig Outhwaite. Extremely busy and exciting times ahead!”
Explains Victoria.
If you are a QS, at any level, with Civil Engineering experience, and you are feeling unhappy, unfulfilled, and just a bit meh about your role, then please get in contact with the team who has various roles with contractors, subcontractors and consultancies that may be your perfect job. Even if you are not ready to make the move just yet, they would love to meet you for a coffee and chat about the market, and what your perfect role would look like, so can contact you in the future about suitable opportunities.
The new London office will specialise in the recruitment of Commercial (Quantity Surveyors’) Rail and Civil staff for “blue chip” clients across the UK. The team are currently recruiting Commercial Managers/Directors, Estimating Managers, Managing Quantity Surveyors and all other levels of Quantity Surveyors, Estimators as well as Risk Managers and procurement staff for major rail projects and frameworks including HS2.
Join the Team
Are you working in London and looking for a new opportunity in engineering recruitment? We are looking to expand our team from our London office. Find out more about working life at Advance TRS or contact our Head of Talent Acquisition, Jessica Wells, to find out about our opportunities across all three offices and all built environment teams.
This October our Director of Client Services & Rail Signalling, Sam Jennings will be taking part in Railway Children’s Ride Vietnam Challenge. As a novice cyclist, Sam will be confronting a challenging 450km cycle across 7 days in 30 degrees, on a (barely used) bike!
“Having never previously ridden a bike without balancing a child on the back, it seemed like a great opportunity to take on a huge personal challenge and raise money that will go to support some of the most vulnerable children in the world”
shares Sam Jennings.
So far Sam has completed over 500 miles training in the saddle, with 340 miles travelled through a very hot July! Lots of water, sun cream and only the one puncture so far to date to report as Sam hits the halfway mark on his donations target and only 2 months to go! In the next few weeks, Sam faces a step up in training with 100 miles a week to complete.
The trip itself will see Sam spend between six and eight hours in the saddle each day, travelling across waterways and plantations on unpaved and dusty roads, slightly different surfaces to the hills he will be training on but all part of the challenge for a true bike novice!
Sam Jennings continues training for the Ride Cambodia Challenge this October
Sam has previously completed the London Marathon raising over £2,500 for Action for Children but is a complete newbie to the world of cycling and hoping to make the challenge worth whilst by beating his previous total.
Giving Back
Since Advance TRS was established in 2011, advancing less fortunate people has always been a central motivator for founder Andy Ridout and the Advance TRS team. To date, our staff have raised over £65,000 for charities completing an incredible array of personal challenges to raise money and awareness for those less fortunate. Find out more.
Railway Children
Advance TRS has been a long term supporter and partner of Railway Children and the Rail Aid campaign. Railway Children is an international children’s charity that funds rescue workers and street teams that seek out vulnerable children living on the streets before potential abusers get to them first. Our staff have completed a number of challenges to raise money and awareness for the charity including Three Peaks By Rail, Three Ironman’s, a trek up Kilimanjaro and to Everest Base Camp. Find out more about how Railway Children support children in need.
The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has revealed that 251km of electrified track was added to the UK’s rail network during the past 12 months. Read more…
HS2 Ltd has revealed the final design for the Little Missenden vent shaft headhouse, which will provide ventilation and emergency access to the railway’s 16km-long Chilterns tunnel. Read more…
Archaeologists working on HS2 in Birmingham have uncovered the remains of what is believed to be the world’s oldest railway roundhouse at Curzon Street station. Read more…
Management specialist Turner & Townsend has been appointed to provide project management office (PMO) services on Sydney’s Metro West scheme. Read more…
After ten days of successful tests, Alstom’s Coradia iLint train ran 65 kilometres of line between Groningen and Leeuwarden in the northern area of the Netherlands. Read more…
Preparatory work is almost complete on the site of HS2’s new Interchange station that will serve Birmingham Airport, the NEC and Birmingham International. Major structures have started to arrive ahead of construction. Read more…
CrossCountry has announced the appointment of four regional directors with responsibility for operational and financial performance at the franchise, which is held by Arriva under a directly-awarded contract that currently runs to October 2020. Read more…
The Department for Transport (DfT) has rubber stamped the business case for Crossrail 2, which includes a funding update and a plan to avoid delays. Read more…
Former ICE President Gordon Masterton has been appointed chair of the Independent Assurance Panel (IAP) for High Speed 2, which peer reviews and provides procurement advice to the railway builder. Read more…
Alstom, French multinational company who operate worldwide in rail transport markets, are set to take over Canadian train producer Bombardier. Read more…
HS2 Ltd revealed on 19th Feb designs for Old Oak Common Station, as part of the Schedule 17 submission to the Old Oak and Park Royal Development Corporation (OPDC). Read more…
Network Rail, Highways England and Transport for London (TfL) have agreed to join the board for Transport for the South East, whilst working together with civic and business leaders representing more than 7.5m people and 300,000 businesses to form investment plans for the South East’s transport network. Read more…
Network Rail has awarded places on four Lots to Jacobs for their prestigious Design Services Framework (DSF), to deliver multi-disciplinary technical and professional services, including geotechnical, civils and structures capability. Read more…
Transport secretary Grant Shapps has set aside £500M to reopen disused rail lines and stations. So what is the history behind these abandoned lines – and what precedent has been set for their revitalisation? Read more…
Amey Consulting has teamed up with Sheffield Hallam University to deliver a trailblazing Railway Engineering degree apprenticeship scheme to help attract new talent into the railway industry. Read more…
The Scottish Government has published its budget for 2020/21, revealing a “bold and ambitious programme” to develop the country’s infrastructure. Read more…
Remote communities across the country will see the benefit from better rail connections, set to advance regional economies and boost access to jobs and education, following a £500m fund to kickstart the restoration of lines closed over 50 years ago. Read more…
Tees Valley Combined Authority has submitted a bid to government for the funds needed to ‘dramatically overhaul’ Darlington railway station. Read more…
To raise money for children’s charity, Action for Children, the very first Hornby Avanti West Coast Pendolino is set to be auctioned off and expected to raise hundreds of pounds. Read more…
This year, nine operators are introducing new and upgraded trains with better technology on board, which are part of the industry’s commitment to replace half of Britain’s train fleet new for old. Read more…
Rail operator, Northern, has published insight into the processes and engineering expertise involved with its current £100m investment into its trains. Read more…
Alstom has won a seven-year deal with Avanti West Coast worth £642 million for the refurbishment and maintenance of 56 Class 390 Pendolinos. Read more…
The viaduct which was been featured in the Harry Potter series is the latest Network Rail project. Work has begun the protect the railway from possible landslips and rock-falls from the hillsides and embankments. Read more…
Transport secretary, Grant Shapps, has announced a commitment to reviving the North-East rail network, outlining how new investment will boost the network and level up infrastructure across the country. Read more…
The Energy Innovation Council (EIC) has announced a new collaboration with Network Rail which will see it support the rail company in continuing to deliver reliable and sustainable power to its infrastructure. Read more…
This week rail passengers in South Wales are benefitting from electric services for the first-time following Network Rail’s successful completion of electrification of the railway between Cardiff Central and London Paddington. Read more…
Greater Anglia ran the first of its ten Class 745 intercity electric multiple units in passenger traffic on January 8, when its 745007 formed the 0740 Norwich-London Liverpool Street. Read more…
The new West Coast Mainline operator, Avanti West Coast, have secured a seven-year deal worth precisely £642 million with Alstom, who will refurbish and maintain the routes of 56 electric Pendolino trains. Read more…
ScotRail is officially opening the new Robroyston station as the rail operator also launches its new timetable. The new £14m station marks the 60th railway station in Glasgow. Read more…
Contractors working on the Northern Line Extension programme have revealed how they are attempting to improve mental health within the construction industry. Read more…
Transport for the West Midlands (TfWM) has unveiled the first tram in the UK to run on battery power along a line without the need for overhead cables. Read more…
Ahead of a major timetable change on December 15, Great Western Railway is confident it will not be affected by problems similar to those suffered by the industry in May 2018. Read more…
Hitachi Rail awarded a contract worth more than £350m by First Trenitalia, whose new Avanti West Coast rail service starts on the 8th of December, to maintain and prove 23 new intercity trains. Read more…
Martin Kearney has been appointed as the new chief operating officer for Nexus, the public body which owns the Tyne and Wear Metro, and wider public transport across the North East. Read more…
The Railway Industry Association (RIA) has launched a survey in partnership with Network Rail to gather views from the supply chain on the product acceptance process. Read more…
Crossrail’s station at Bond Street is now set to open with the rest of the line, the project’s chief executive has told Transport for London. Read more…
Martin Kearney has been appointed as the new chief operating officer for Nexus, the public body which owns the Tyne and Wear Metro, and wider public transport across the North East. Read more…
The Railway Industry Association (RIA) has launched a survey in partnership with Network Rail to gather views from the supply chain on the product acceptance process. Read more…
Crossrail’s station at Bond Street is now set to open with the rest of the line, the project’s chief executive has told Transport for London. Read more…
Young Rail Professionals have announced in support of their mission to promote the rail industry as a great place to work, they’re recruiting Rail Industry Ambassadors to visit schools, colleges and universities and career fairs. Read more…
Amulet, the specialist security business of the Churchill group has won the Partners in Expert Services – Public Sector for its partnership with train operator, Trenitalia Limited (trading as C2C). Read more…
To celebrate its 25th anniversary, the Eurostar has committed to a number of environmental measures including the running of the first plastic-free train. Read more…
Govia Thameslink Railway are now recycling over 50% more energy back into the railway network, helping to power the fleet and making them more energy efficient than any previous generations of trains. Read more…
The Rail Delivery Group has outlined the latest details of its £20bn investment in improving services and upgrading infrastructure on the network. Read more…
The Health and Safety Executive’s annual figures for Great Britain, the Managing Director of Mates in Mind, has urged employers to ensure that they are investing in their workforce following a recent report. Read more…
Network Rail has awarded Telent Technology a contract to roll-out free passenger wi-fi with ‘seamless connectivity and single sign-on’ at the 20 major stations which it manages directly. Read more…
The ‘make or break’ review into the future of HS2 being carried out by Douglas Oakervee and Lord (Tony) Berkeley may have been delayed by wider political uncertainties, including the possibility of a General Election, according to the Government’s critics. Read more…
Network Rail has announced an investment of over £4m into the upgrade of Keighley station, improving services and experiences for the 1.7 million annual passengers. Read more…
Network Rail is in the final stages of appointing traffic management and system integration partners for its Digital Railway Transformation programme on the East Coast Main Line. Read more…
122 million passengers are set to have their journeys improved following Thales’ signing of a new contract to support DLR’s rolling stock replacement programme, which will help bring more regular and reliable journeys in East London from 2023. Read more…
Arup, in partnership with Network Rail, have published their ‘Tomorrow’s Living Station’ report, exploring the exciting part that stations will play in our towns and cities. Read more…
Network Rail has awarded VolkerFitzpatrick a £20m contract to complete the upgrading of Ilford and Romford stations in east London for the Crossrail project. Read more…
Consultants working for the Balfour Beatty/Vinci joint venture (BBV JV), which has won the High Speed 2 (HS2) N1 and N2 main works civils contract, have revealed how they fast-tracked the stage 1 design. Read more…
Trains from London Paddington Crossrail station to Shenfield will begin six months after trains start serving the low-level station from other destinations. Read more…
Transport secretary Grant Shapps has given the green light to plans submitted for the Northampton Gateway Strategic Rail Freight Interchange, a huge rail depot located to the south of Northampton. Read more…
Masculinity is a “prison” burdening male engineers with unrealistic expectations and causing a mental health crisis within the industry, a study has concluded. Read more…
Class 20s owned by Harry Needle Railroad Company have been resurrected for hire duties after a long-term deal with GB Railfreight came to an end in the summer. Read more…
Network Rail have deployed jet-washing trains onto the lines in Kent and Sussex, where they will be travelling the equivalent of four times round the Earth in order to clean the railway. Read more…
On World Mental Health Day, a ScotRail employee has been nominated for a top award after his rapid response to noticing and helping a vulnerable person. Read more…
Mace has been appointed by Siemens Mobility to support the delivery of a new £200M train factory in East Yorkshire. The firm will provide project and cost management services, health and safety work, and environmental expertise. Read more…
The target cost and timescale for a new very light rail (VLR) system in Coventry has been set out with the aim of having the first phase open to passengers by 2024. Read more…
TfL Rail will operate trains between London Paddington and Reading from December 15. They will form part of the planned Crossrail service, and replace existing Great Western Railway services. Read more…
Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) are to renew and upgrade Manchester Metrolink’s electrical infrastructure in a bid to support and maintain TfGM’s green transport strategy for the city. Read more…
The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) has agreed to fund up to £20m for a UK Central Hub in Solihull alongside the HS2 station development. Read more…
The decision, which follows a public consultation on the line, paves the way for the project to apply for a development consent order from the Department for Transport which would formally authorise the line. Read more…
Midlands Connect has unveiled an ambitious plan to move ahead with seven rail projects in the region, which are designed to be co-ordinated with HS2. Read more…
The government-ordered Oakervee review is to rule on proposed changes to the northern section of High Speed 2 (HS2) tabled by Midlands Connect. Read more…
With the need to electrify significant parts of Great Britain’s rail network to meet rail decarbonisation targets, the industry continues to design and develop innovative solutions that will deliver improved value over the life cycle of an asset. Read more…
Transport for London (TfL) has kicked off its search for interested parties to take part in its major London rail infrastructure improvement framework agreement. Read more
Network Rail has launched a £3M fund and invited organisations to submit projects which can help improve safety and efficiency in tunnels or improve station security. Read more
Heat from the Northern Line is set to be captured and used to warm homes in Islington as part of an attempt to capture more “waste heat” in the capital. Read More…
The first in the world Riding Sunbeams project to power the Wessex railway route with solar power has taken a major step forward after the solar powered signalling and lighting system was switched on, on the Wessex route. Read More…
Following major upgrades to the Anglia rail network, carried out by Network Rail, passengers are set to benefit from greatly improved journeys. The improvements were made as part of the company’s Rail Upgrade Plan across Essex and North London, and saw all of the projects delivered on time over the August bank holiday. Read More…
Major station upgrades and plans to rebuild and electrify an 8-mile stretch of track have been put forward by Network Rail as part of a public consultation on a major upgrade to the TransPennine route. Read More…
Railway infrastructure company Network Rail have submitted an indicative bid to take over parts of British Steel in an attempt to save the troubled business. The state-owned company are concerned about disruption to the rail network if British Steel were to permanently close. Read More…
The network proposes a new ‘Cardiff Cross Rail’, a new light rail and tram system running from east to west of the city. Speaking at a Welsh Government Conference on Active Travel, council leader Cllr Huw Thomas called for major changes to the city’s transport infrastructure. Read More…
Transport for Wales (TfW) has begun work on a £100m depot for the South Wales Metro to support vehicles on the system. The depot at Taff’s Well is set to play a key part in the network which aims to be running from 2022, part of a wider £5bn investment to transform Wales’ transport infrastructure. Read More…
With a new plan now in place to deliver Crossrail, Hedley Ayres, National Audit Office manager, major projects and programmes, takes a look at how things went wrong. As has been extensively reported, Crossrail is around two years late and, if all its £17.6bn of funding is used, could end up costing around £3bn more than expected. Read More…
Diversity and inclusion: The shape of things to come
How the organisation developing the UK’s new high-speed rail network is changing the industry’s diversity and inclusion practices. Mark Lomas joined HS2 as its head of equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in January 2016. After starting out as a musician he became an EDI specialist, overseeing the development of major programmes at the Shaw Trust, the Law Society of England and Wales and the BBC. Read more…
CAF wins DLR train order
CAF has been awarded the contract to design, manufacture and supply a fleet of 43 trains for the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) by Transport for London (TfL). The contract will include a Fleet Support Agreement to provide technical support services and spares supply. Based on CAF’s successful Metro vehicle design, the new five-car trains enter passenger service from 2023. Thirty-three of the trains will replace DLR’s oldest rolling stock which is nearly thirty years old and 10 will increase frequency and capacity across the network. Read more…
The 5 bidders for HS2 train order reveal their designs
Five organisations are bidding for a contract to design, manufacture and maintain the trains for the first phase of HS2. The original list was Alstom, Bombardier, Hitachi, Siemens and Talgo. When Bombardier and Hitachi decided to make a joint bid, CAF was added to the list to maintain five bidders. The first phase, for at least 54 trains to run on both HS2 and the ‘classic’ network, is likely to be ordered in Spring 2020 with a contract value of around £2.75 billion. Read more…
WWII bomb-damaged signal box celebrates 120 years
A doodlebug, a blast-injured signaller and one of the longest frames on the South Eastern railway – Maidstone West signal box has had an extraordinary history. The Grade II listed box turned 120 years old on June 4 but remains fully operational. In fact, it’s one of the last remaining examples of the original signal box design by Evans O’Donnell &Co. Read more…
How to upgrade a railway station
Station upgrades are important to our efforts to put passengers at the heart of what we do. Such improvements can range from more room for passengers in the station and on platforms to improved railway infrastructure around the station for better journeys. Read more…
A mere 15 years from now, a description of a rail journey from London to Sheffield could include an explanation of how part of the journey will be clean and green under electric power and the rest will be driven by dirty diesels. Read more…
Are you truly a commuter until you’ve reached a mainline station at 6pm on a muggy summer Friday evening and experienced the dreaded digital signage failure? Read more…
This D-Day – 75 years since Allied troops landed on the beaches of Normandy – we uncover fascinating images of the railway’s preparations for conflict in Europe. Read more…
The Network Rail Engineering Technician apprenticeship program develops the technicians, team leaders, supervisors, managers, and engineers of the future. Read more…
Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water has begun a project to return a decommissioned reservoir to its natural state, in a move that will create walking opportunities and enhance the environment. Read more…
Today we might take the ability to read and write for granted – but not so long ago that wasn’t a given. In an industry like rail, so dependent on the written word, via rules, regulations and more, difficulties with reading, in particular, might have had real safety implications. Read more…
In April, the number of property sales agreed per estate agency branch increased to the highest level seen since October, according to the latest data from the NAEA. Read more…
Metal wheels on metal rails have, for almost 200 years, provided energy-efficient transport due to their low rolling resistance and effective load bearing. Read more…
The Technical Seminar programme, arranged and hosted by Rail Engineer, gives Railtex exhibitors the opportunity to talk about their latest developments to an enquiring and knowledgeable audience. Read more…
Think back to 2009 and you might remember watching a group of celebrities take on the challenge of reaching the summit of Kilimanjaro for Comic Relief’s Red Nose Day. Read more…
A new report from the Association of Community Rail Partnerships (ACoRP) has evaluated the benefits of the community rail movement to individuals, local areas and society. Read more…
FirstGroup and its partners are excited to be close to delivering a viable 5G millimetre Wave (mmWave) solution to the global rail market; one that can offer connectivity which until now, seemed unattainable. Read more…
Construction of one of the biggest flood defence schemes in the country was officially launched by the Environment Minister in Hull yesterday (Thursday 16 May). Read more…
Housebuilder Countryside lifted completions by 43% to 2,362 homes in the first half of the year, after strong growth in affordable and build to rent homes. Read more…
Professor Meiling Zhu, chair of mechanical engineering and head of the Energy Harvesting Research Group (EHRG) at the University of Exeter, introduces us to Ze-Power (Zero Power, Large Area Rail Track Monitoring): an innovative Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) funded project aiming to make the railway tracks safer and more reliable. Read more…
Waitrose & Partners has revealed the projects it will be supporting with its unique £1 million grant fund designed to tackle plastic pollution. Read more…
A workforce of thousands across the country delivered renewed infrastructure and improved facilities – leading to better services for passengers. Read more…
Crossrail’s Bond Street station is a year behind schedule compared to the rest of the project’s stations because of extensive tunnelling delays, Mark Wild has revealed. Read more…
A former High Speed 2 (HS2) area manager has pinpointed two major challenges facing route designers working on the southern half of the project. Read more…
Our fleet of vehicles and machinery works hard all year round.
It plays a crucial role in keeping the railway safe for passengers and freight operators, such as each autumn, when 61 specialist trains and vehicles minimise the impact of leaf fall and help reduce the chances of delays. Read more…
The first of Glasgow’s new subway fleet has arrived in Scotland and begun an intensive testing programme in preparation for their launch as the first driverless trains in the UK. Read more…
Ever wondered what it takes to look after thousands of tunnels? re responsible for 30,000 bridges, tunnels and viaducts as well as 20,000 miles of track. Read more…
UNIFE, the Association of the European Rail Industry, has released a new vision paper on digitalisation that aims to bring the European rail supply industry’s views and objectives into the centre of the digital debate. Read more…
A NEW plan to rescue Crossrail and open the Elizabeth Line as soon as possible has been developed by senior managers and agreed by the Crossrail board. Read more…
A new Access Map has been introduced to guide disabled people, and others with mobility difficulty, of the facilities available at each railway station in the country. Read more…
Plans for an £80m sea wall to protect the Dawlish coastal rail line from extreme weather have been by approved by Teignbridge District Council. Read more…
The housing market remained subdued in March, a picture that has been evident in the sales market for several months now, according to our latest UK Residential Market Survey. Read more…
Water companies including Severn Trent and United Utilities are joining forces to form the World Water Innovation Fund, which aims to find, develop and accelerate the ground- breaking technologies that will make a real difference to peoples’ lives across the world. Read more…
Virgin Trains could disappear from Britain’s railways by the end of the year, Sir Richard Branson has announced after the government disqualified its joint franchise bid with Stagecoach. Read more…
Train operators and Network Rail are set to publish new measures for train punctuality as part of plans to reduce delays across the network and boost customer satisfaction. From April, up to the minute train performance data will be used as the primary method for measuring punctuality. Read more…
Network Rail has released its plans for Control Period 6, which starts on 1 April 2019. These show how the company intends to spend over £42 billion over the five years of CP6 (2019-2024) on maintaining and renewing the railway with the aim of increasing reliability and improving performance. Read more…
Northumberland County Council’s plans to reopen the line from Newcastle upon Tyne to Ashington via Blyth to passenger services by 2022 have taken a step forward with the completion of the Strategic Outline Business Case for the plan. Read more…
A new £208m Belfast Transport Hub with major rail and bus connections has been granted planning permission by the Department of Infrastructure. Read more…
Under-fire train operator ScotRail has unveiled an £18m remedial plan to recruit more staff and bring in additional high-speed trains in response to the government’s improvement demands last month. Read more…
Although some routes will experience significant disruption, Network Rail said its Easter engineering work is “the quietest for many years” and will leave the majority of the country unaffected. Read more…
This Easter we’ll deliver more than £100m of investment in a better railway. A 13,800-strong workforce will work around the clock to keep the railway open and deliver more reliable infrastructure, improved facilities and services for passengers. Read more…
Network Rail has been instructed to design an extension of the Midland main line electrification programme from Kettering to Market Harborough station, rail minister Andrew Jones has confirmed. Read more…
Groundbreaking emission-reducing technology is to be fitted to South Western Railway (SWR) train units as part of a new trial aiming to cut down harmful emissions from diesel trains by 80%. Read more…
Liverpool Lime Street station has had a thorough overhaul recently, with new platforms, signalling and track. But its heritage has not been forgotten as three slabs from the original station platforms, dating from 1836, have been included as part of the rebuild. Read more…
Final checks have been made on the newly electrified railway between Manchester and Preston as a test train made its last journey over the route for the arrival of 100mph in May. Read more…
Passengers on the Cross City line in the West Midlands (Lichfield – Birmingham – Redditch/Bromsgrove) are starting to experience an improvement in their on-train comfort as the first of West Midlands Trains’ Class 323 units re-enters service after a substantial refit. Read more…
The potential of the highly-anticipated Cambridge-Oxford arc project could be stunted if the government does not provide a “clearer vision and better joined-up working” to maximising the output of the corridor, the National Infrastructure Commission (NIC) has claimed. Read more…
The latest data and analysis from UK Finance has revealed that despite ‘challenging’ market conditions and the ongoing Brexit and political circus, first-time-buyer numbers reached a 12-year peak during last year. Read more…
Northumbrian Water has started using harvested rainwater in jetting operations to clear sewer blockages, as an alternative to using clean, treated water for the purpose. Read more…
A direct rail link between Ipswich, Norwich and Oxford could unlock £17.5bn for the East Anglia community, according to a case for investment from the East West Rail Consortium (EWRC). Read more…
SSE has become the sixth and final large energy supplier to announce it is raising its standard variable tariff (SVT) to Ofgem’s revised price cap level. Read more…
Rail Engineer has reported on the use of data analytics before, following attendance at Rolling Stock Maintenance conferences organised by London Business Conferences. Read more…
A key part of Network Rail’s ‘predict and prevent’ strategy, Plain Line Pattern Recognition (PLPR) is helping to deliver a safer and more reliable railway for the 4.8 million passengers who rely upon it every day. Read more…
Plans to build a new sea wall in the first phase of work to protect the coastal railway which connects Devon and Cornwall with the rest of the UK have been unveiled by Network Rail. Read more…
Network Rail has announced two (shortly to be three) track systems contracts that could cover the next 10 years and be worth around £5 billion to the successful bidders, or over £10 billion of work when the cost of free-issued materials and services is included. Read more…
When Ruby Bhogal returned to work on August 30, she was greeted with a warmer reception than usual. She’d only had a day’s leave but, in the space of 36 hours, two of her big secrets were finally out. Read more…
Much has been written and said in recent times about efforts to improve the throughput of trains on metro and inner suburban railways. Using CBTC has enabled 36 trains per hour (tph) to be achieved in each direction on London Underground’s Victoria Line. Read more…
Siemens and Alstom, two major suppliers to the world’s railways, signed a Memorandum of Understanding on 26 September 2017 to combine Siemens’ mobility business including its rail traction drives business with Alstom. Read more…
Alstom and Siemens have offered new concessions to try to satisfy antitrust demands from the European Commission over their plans to merge and create a European rail champion, forcing Margrethe Vestager to reassess the merger at the last minute. Read more…
DB Cargo UK and Maritime Transport have agreed to launch a joint intermodal division and contract out work to each other in bid to increase rail freight capacity and competition in the intermodal market. Read more…
Proposals for an expansion of Greater Manchester’s (GM) tram network are in the works, Chris Grayling and Andy Burnham have announced, with plans for greater devolved control for the region and the introduction of tram-trains being considered. Read more…
The East West Railway Company has just released details of five alternative routes for a new railway between Bedford and Cambridge as part of the East West Rail development. Read more…
We cater for 4.5m rail journeys every single day, while simultaneously delivering an ambitious, multi-billion pound Railway Upgrade Plan. We’re renewing and upgrading 20,000 miles of track, 30,000 bridges and viaducts, thousands of signals, level crossings and stations (the largest of which we also run), meaning our works have a wide-reaching impact. Read more…
London is set to become the first in the UK to have an automatic braking system that will automatically apply the brakes, and bring a moving tram to a controlled stop, if it exceeds the speed limit at designated locations. Read more…
The Civil Engineering Contractors Association (Ceca) has championed the remodelling of Derby station and the redevelopment of London Waterloo station as exemplary projects to be learned from, in response to the government’s “root and branch” rail review. Read more…
London’s tram network is to be fitted with an automatic braking system in response to safety recommendations following the fatal Croydon tram crash. Read more…
Deutsche Bahn (DB) reportedly wants to sell Arriva in order to plug a £3.6bn gap in its finances, although reports from Berlin say Brexit is making it hard to value the rail business. Read more…
While many spent the Christmas and New Year break with family and friends, a 25,000-strong workforce laboured through £148 million worth of work for Network Rail. Read more…
HS2 could be forced to run fewer trains and at slower speeds in order to keep the high-speed rail project within its £56m budget, its chief executive has said. Read more…
Electrification of the Great Western main line (GWML) reached a new milestone at the end of October when, following the installation of overhead electrical equipment from Didcot Parkway, the first revenue service operating under electric power pulled into Swindon station. Read more…
Network Rail and RIBA Competitions are delighted to announce the winner and highly commended entry in the competition seeking new design ideas for footbridges. Read more…
Standing here on the platforms of the electrified York station, breathing in a fog of diesel fumes from five diesel trains awaiting departure, it is easy to wonder what went wrong. Read more…
Specialist infrastructure services provider Auctus Management Group (AMG), as well as its subsidiaries INFRA Skills and RSS Infrastructure (RSSI), have relocated their headquarters to a new 10,000 sq ft premises in the heart of the West Midlands. Read more…
Hitachi and Spencer Group have launched a joint bid to win a £500m contract to build new trains and a maintenance depot for the Tyne and Wear Metro. Read more…
Across the UK’s regional hubs, rents are continuing to spiral upwards faster than both London and the UK average, driven by workers continuing to relocate from London amid rising living costs. Read more…
Sniffer dogs are being used to help find leaking water mains for the first time in Scotland and have scored a big success with two discoveries in the past few days. Read more…
Northumbrian Water is planning to pilot the use of large-scale battery storage at a number of sites across the North East, Essex and Suffolk. Read more…
For the first in a new series meeting rail staff at different stages of their careers, we sat down with rising rail apprentice Caitlin Gent. Read more…
THE new Rail Ombudsman starts work today, with the aim of providing an independent judge of whether rail passengers’ complaints are justified. Read more…
A major refurbishment of Sevenoaks tunnel has seen a 20% reduction in delays and halved journey times for passengers, even as the £21m infrastructure renewal nears completion. Read more…
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