Principal Architect - #1721841

Join to apply for the Principal Architect role at SYSTRA UK & Ireland.

Around the world, SYSTRA’s specialists plan, design, integrate, test, commission, project manage, and deliver mass transit and mobility solutions relied upon by over 50 million people daily.

For more than 60 years, the Group has been committed to enhancing cities and regions through sustainable, accessible, and innovative transport infrastructure. With over 10,300 colleagues globally and around 1,000 in the UK & Ireland, we are expanding and seeking top talent to join our team and lead in infrastructure design.

SYSTRA is immediately hiring a Principal Architect based in York, Leeds, or Manchester. Following the award of multiple landmark international projects, this is an exciting opportunity to join our Architecture Team as we grow our profile in the UK & Ireland and globally. The role focuses on delivering transport sector projects including passenger stations, rail depots, and related infrastructure within our RIBA Chartered Practice.

• Provide strong, proactive project leadership.


• Responsible for producing designs and all related deliverables (drawings, reports, schedules, calculations).


• Coordinate supporting staff and manage tasks efficiently.


• Lead and manage in-house architectural designers, technicians, other disciplines, and partners to meet client and business needs.


• Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams for cohesive design solutions.


• Manage design input from partners and subcontractors.


• Take projects from conception through to completion, including feasibility, outline, detailed design, and site support.


• Assist in resource management to meet project targets, standards, timelines, and budgets.


• Provide technical support on-site.


• Review tender opportunities, prepare deliverables, cost estimates, and schedules.

• Chartered Architect (ARB & RIBA) with significant experience and strong understanding of the RIBA work stages.


• Proven experience with complex infrastructure projects, preferably in transportation.


• Experienced in BIM, especially Autodesk Revit.


• Proficient in Adobe Photoshop/InDesign for graphical presentations.


• Excellent report and case study writing skills.


• Competent with Microsoft Office suite.


• Strong knowledge of design and construction standards.


• Proactive and solution-oriented approach.


• Effective communicator with tact and diplomacy.


• Motivated team player capable of working under pressure.

• Experience with international projects, especially in the Middle East.


• Knowledge of Bentley software (AECOsim) and experience with CDEs for project collaboration.

Why SYSTRA? We prioritize excellence, teamwork, and leadership, offering career development, competitive benefits, flexible working, and a supportive environment that values diversity and wellbeing.