Clean water Treatment - Principal Process Engineer

Adecco; Lewes; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in the UK is seeking a Principal Process Engineer to drive innovative water management projects. This full-time role involves guiding a design team, managing project budgets, and ensuring sustainable solutions. Candidates should have relevant engineering qualifications and a solid background in the UK water industry. The position supports hybrid working with benefits including bonuses, generous leave, and investments in personal development.

Benefits

Company and performance‑related bonus

Generous pension up to 11% company contribution

25 days annual leave

Life assurance equal to 4x salary

Health Cash Plan

Cycle to work scheme

Private medical insurance (Senior Grades only)

Qualifications

• Solid background in delivering water projects in the UK.
• Deep understanding of engineering principles and commercial operations.
• Ability to manage complex engineering challenges.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement risk assessments and health & safety strategies.
• Manage project budgets and resolve complex technical issues.
• Mentor and develop junior engineers.

Skills

Excellent communication

Leadership

Problem-solving

Education

MEng / BEng / BSc or HNC in Engineering, Environmental, or a related discipline

Chartered Engineer status

Job description

Job Title : Clean water Treatment - Principal Process Engineer

Location : Falmer - Hybrid Working

Ideally 2 days a week in Falmer but open to 1 day every 2 weeks

Are you ready to lead ground-breaking projects that shape the future of water management? We're looking for a dynamic and experienced Principal Engineer to join our team and drive innovation in the delivery of essential infrastructure.

Job Overview

As a Principal Engineer, you will be at the forefront of delivering high-impact water projects. Your technical expertise and leadership will guide a talented design team across various disciplines‑whether it's Civil, Mechanical, EICA, Process, Network Modelling, or Hydraulics. From detailed technical analysis to ensuring timely project delivery, you'll play a key role in every stage of the process.

You’ll lead parts of or complete schemes, working closely with Project Design Leads and stakeholders to deliver innovative, cost‑effective, and environmentally sustainable solutions.

Responsibilities will include :

• Develop and implement risk assessments and health & safety strategies.
• Ensure that every design you lead is sustainable and environmentally friendly.
• Provide expert guidance on design calculations, specifications, and contracts.
• Manage project budgets and resolve complex technical issues.
• Challenge the status quo and drive continuous improvement.
• Research industry best practices and introduce cutting‑edge digital design concepts.
• Collaborate with supply chains to enhance efficiency and technical standards.
• Mentor and develop junior engineers, fostering their professional growth.
• Deliver projects that exceed budget expectations by implementing cost‑effective solutions.
• Influence stakeholders to achieve the best outcomes.
• Keep projects on track, identifying and mitigating any potential delays.
• Ensure all designs are completed within agreed timelines.
• Align project outcomes with customer and regulatory expectations.

About You

Qualifications : MEng / BEng / BSc or HNC in Engineering, Environmental, or a related discipline. Chartered Engineer status with a relevant institution is essential.

Experience : A solid background in delivering water projects in the UK Water Industry, with a deep understanding of engineering principles, commercial operations, and risk management.

Skills : Excellent communication, leadership, and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to drive innovation and manage complex engineering challenges.

Package

This role will be full time Monday to Friday 37 hours a week.

Southern Water operate a hybrid approach to working between our Falmer office and home.

Ideally 2 days a week in Falmer but open to 1 day every 2 weeks

• Company and performance‑related bonus
• Generous pension up to 11% company contribution
• 25 days annual leave
• Life assurance equal to 4x salary
• Salary sacrifice electric car scheme (after 6 months service)
• Health Cash Plan
• Full funded eye tests
• Two paid volunteering days a year
• Occupational health service
• Discounts with over popular retailers
• Digital GP service
• Study support may be available for job‑related qualifications
• Competitive maternity leave and flexible return to work options
• Cycle to work scheme
• Private medical insurance (Senior Grades only)

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