Job Purpose
The Hand back Engineer is responsible for the safe, compliant, and timely inspection, certification, and hand back of rail track works to the Rail Operator for the commencement of train services. The role ensures all affected track, third rail, and associated systems are fit for service and fully compliant with approved standards, specifications, and safety requirements following construction, renewal, or jacking/lowering works.
The Hand back Engineer shall be independent of the Possession Master (PM) and shall coordinate directly with the Rail Operator during possessions and hand back activities.
Responsibilities
Hand back Accountability
- Take full responsibility for the hand back of track works to the Rail Operator, certifying the infrastructure as safe and fit for train service.
- Ensure all works are completed in accordance with approved designs, standards, method statements, and Railway Authority requirements.
- Coordinate and obtain Rail Operator approval for hand back activities.
- Maintain independence from the Possession Master while working collaboratively during possessions.
Track Inspection, Measurement & Verification
- Carry out and supervise track-related measurements and inspections before, during, and after works, including track alignment, level, cant, gauge, and twist, as well as third rail and fastening components
- Monitor track behaviour during viaduct beam jacking and lowering operations.
- Certify that all track measurements have been completed correctly and are within permissible limits.
- Inspect track and third rail components and attest to their good condition.
Quality & Compliance
- Implement quality assurance and control procedures for hand back activities.
- Review and verify geometry and survey records, as-built documentation, and inspection checklists and hand back records
- Identify and ensure rectification of defects or non‑conformances prior to hand back.
- Ensure compliance with all statutory, client, and Rail Operator standards.
Safety & Risk Management
- Verify that works have been executed in accordance with approved RAMS and safe systems of work.
- Ensure all safety-critical elements are compliant before authorising hand back.
- Act decisively where safety or compliance is in question, including withholding hand back if required.
- Direct the imposition, modification, and lifting of Temporary Speed Restrictions (TSR) in coordination with the Rail Operator.
Operational & Performance Assurance
- Analyse track performance and recommend or implement rectification works during non‑traffic hours where necessary to ensure safe train operations.
- Be responsible for conducting cab ride inspections on revenue trains when required.
- Liaise closely with Operations, Engineering, Track Quality Supervisors, Surveyors, and Control teams to ensure smooth and safe hand back.
Report generation
- Responsible for generating accurate reports, performing data analysis, and reviewing findingsto support the endorsement, certification, and submission of officialdocumentation in accordance with Client and Authority requirements.
Qualifications & Work Experience
- Diploma or Degree in Civil Engineering orequivalent.
- Minimum five (5) years of relevant experience in rail track renewal and railway operations.
- Demonstrated experience performing Hand back Engineer duties on metro or mainline railway infrastructure.
- Certified and familiar with latest UK Network Rail standards, including speed suitability up to 90 kph (or equivalent Rail Operator standards).
- Strong workingknowledge of possession working, track geometry, and hand back procedures.
Skills and Competencies
- Excellent attention to detail and strong safety-first mindset.
- Sound technical understanding of rail track, S&C, third rail, and geometry systems.
- Confident decision-making capability under possession time pressure.
- Clear and effective communicator with Rail Operator, site teams, and control personnel.
- Well-organized with strong documentation, inspection, and reporting skills.
- Willing and able to work night shifts, weekends, and during possessions as required.
