Principal Mechanical Engineer - Water Infrastructure

WSP; City of Melbourne; On-site; AUD 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay and flexible work options

Clear career pathways and mentoring

Benefits including paid parental leave

Job summary

A leading engineering consultancy in Melbourne is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer focused on water infrastructure to lead technical projects and mentor emerging talent. This role involves managing design quality throughout the project lifecycle while collaborating with a client-focused team. Ideal candidates will possess a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, CPEng status, and significant experience in hydraulic design. Join a supportive team that values impact and innovation in the water sector.

Qualifications

• Qualified Mechanical Engineer with a passion for water infrastructure.
• Experience in engineering consultancy or design roles.
• Hands-on experience in hydraulic design of water utilities and pump stations.

Responsibilities

• Drive technical quality of water infrastructure projects.
• Lead mechanical and hydraulic design across project lifecycles.
• Produce and review technical documentation and proposals.
• Manage design packages for diverse projects.
• Mentor emerging engineers within the design team.

Skills

Mechanical Engineering

Water Infrastructure

Hydraulic Design

Communication Skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering

Chartered status (CPEng)

Tools

Plant 3D

Inventor

Job description

Principal Mechanical Engineer - Water Infrastructure

Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Job Description

What if your next role helped shape the future of water in Australia? At WSP, we don’t just design infrastructure — we redefine how communities connect with water. Join a global network of experts, contribute to landmark projects, and do the kind of work the world truly needs. Here, curiosity is celebrated, ideas are welcomed, and careers are shaped as uniquely as the people behind them. Our Water team partners with governments, utilities, developers, and industry to deliver innovative, sustainable, and future‑ready solutions across Australia. From concept to completion, we’re transforming how water infrastructure supports communities, economies, and the environment. Our Water Business Group is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer to join our Melbourne team, placing you at the forefront of some of Australia’s most transformative water infrastructure programs. While we value experience in the water sector, we also acknowledge that people are at different stages of their careers — so whether you’re at Associate level or Principal, we’ll shape the role around your strengths, aspirations, and long‑term career goals.

What You’ll Do

• Drive the technical quality of water and wastewater infrastructure design projects.
• Lead mechanical and hydraulic design across the full project lifecycle.
• Produce and review high‑quality technical documentation and contribute to proposals and pursuits.
• Understand and manage the design requirements across multiple projects or program work packages.
• Manage design packages for a diverse portfolio of projects.
• Collaborate within a responsive, client‑focused design team to exceed project expectations.
• Support project and design management activities.
• Mentor emerging engineers and collaborate across local and national teams.

About You

You are a qualified and experienced Mechanical Engineer with a passion for water infrastructure and a collaborative, solutions‑focused mindset.

Ideally, you bring:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
• Chartered status (CPEng).
• Proven experience in engineering consultancy or design roles for contractors/asset owners, with essential water industry experience.
• Strong technical capability across water infrastructure and treatment systems.
• Hands‑on experience in hydraulic design (water utilities, pump stations); exposure to CFD or pipe stress analysis is advantageous.
• Confidence in equipment selection and specification for complex systems.
• Proficiency in stress analysis through software or analytical methods.
• Familiarity with Plant 3D or Inventor (advantageous).
• Knowledge of CHAIR, HAZOP, and Safety‑in‑Design practices.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to prepare and review technical reports and work effectively with clients and internal teams.

Why Choose WSP?

At WSP, you’ll find a workplace where you’re supported, empowered, and inspired to grow. We offer:

• Competitive pay and flexible work options.
• Clear career pathways, including mentoring, leadership development, and national or global secondments.
• An inclusive culture that values diverse perspectives and encourages you to bring your whole self to work.
• Meaningful, purpose‑driven projects that help you shape the future of water.
• Benefits including paid parental leave, extra purchased leave, global mobility options, and more.
• Here, you’ll find more than just a role — you’ll find a place to thrive, grow, and make an impact.
• Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all.
• Join our close-knit community of talented individuals who share your passion for making a positive impact.
• Our global team includes more than 73,000 employees, working together to make a difference in communities both close to home and around the world.

With us, you can. Apply today.