Lead Mechanical Engineer

Carrington West; England; On-site; GBP 68,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading contractor is seeking a Lead Mechanical Engineer for a role in Preston. This position involves overseeing mechanical package delivery on a major framework for United Utilities, requiring strong leadership and project management skills, along with significant experience in the water industry. The ideal candidate will possess a degree in Mechanical Engineering and preferably be chartered or working towards chartered status.

Qualifications

• Experience in the Water Industry required.
• Chartered Engineer status or actively working towards it.

Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical package management and delivery strategy.
• Ensure alignment with framework standards and develop optimised solutions.
• Manage site surveys and supervise engineering teams.

Skills

Project Management

Leadership

Mechanical Design

Education

Degree in Mechanical Engineering

Job description

Job Opportunity: Lead Mechanical Engineer
Location: Preston
Salary: Up to £80,000 plus an attractive package

Are you a seasoned Mechanical Engineer ready to take on a leadership role? This is an exciting opportunity to work with a main contractor on a United Utilities framework. You'll oversee mechanical package delivery, ensuring technical governance and driving standardised, optimised solutions across the programme.

Key Requirements (Essential):
·Experience in the Water Industry
·Degree in Mechanical Engineering
·Chartered Engineer status (or actively working towards chartership)

Key Responsibilities:
·Mechanical Package Management: Lead the delivery strategy and ensure alignment with framework standards.
·Standardisation & Optimisation: Develop repeatable solutions with the Mechanical Design Lead.
·Survey & Implementation: Manage site surveys and handover to project engineering teams.
·Procurement Excellence: Define and enforce procurement specifications for manufacturing, testing, delivery, and installation.
·Supplier & Subcontractor Oversight: Manage subcontract frameworks and key suppliers to ensure timely delivery.

Your Role Will Include:
·Overseeing design inputs at survey and concept stages.
·Producing mechanical enquiry packages based on designs.
·Organising decommissioning or relocation of mechanical equipment.
·Reviewing and signing off mechanical elements of condition survey reports.
·Conducting on- and off-site inspections, including FAT/SAT and critical function testing.
·Collaborating with framework teams to standardise mechanical, electrical, and ICA solutions.
·Liaising with the client's mechanical lead to ensure alignment and successful delivery.

Supporting Commissioning
As the Mechanical Lead, you'll work closely with the Commissioning Manager on:
·Implementing commissioning strategies.
·Addressing governance and systems improvement.
·Coordinating with design leads for complex works such as shutdowns and operational risk assessments.
·Preparing for asset readiness (IATO/ATO) and effective handover.

To Apply:
Send your CV and cover letter to:
Email: [e-mail]
Phone: [phone]
Due to high application volumes, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you don't hear from us, your application was unsuccessful.