Lead Underground Structures Engineer — Tunnels & Shafts

WSP in the UK & Ireland; England; Hybrid; GBP 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid working policy

Job summary

WSP in the UK & Ireland seeks a Principal Structural Engineer with proven expertise in underground structures, tunnels and shafts, to lead multidisciplinary teams on landmark UK, Irish, and international projects.

You will apply advanced structural analysis, ensure compliance with Eurocodes and BS codes, and mentor engineers while contributing to business development. The role endorses hybrid working and opportunities for global collaboration.

Qualifications

• Degree in Civil or Structural Engineering; postgraduate qualification desirable.
• Extensive experience in structural design for underground shafts and tunnels, including temporary and permanent works.
• Strong understanding of structural behaviour under complex loading conditions and ground–structure interaction.
• Familiarity with tunnelling methods (TBM, NATM, SCL) and shaft sinking techniques.
• Proficiency in structural analysis software (STAAD.Pro, MIDAS, Robot) and integration with geotechnical modelling tools.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and lead multi‑disciplinary teams.
• Excellent communication skills and willingness to travel within the UK and internationally.

Responsibilities

• Lead structural design for underground structures from concept through detailed design and construction phases.
• Apply advanced structural engineering principles to develop safe, efficient, and innovative solutions for underground projects.
• Ensure compliance with Eurocodes, BS codes, ITA guidelines, and local regulations.
• Undertake and review structural analyses including load assessments and ground‑structure interaction modelling.
• Collaborate with geotechnical teams to integrate ground behaviour into structural solutions.
• Manage technical delivery of multi‑disciplinary projects, coordinating inputs from civil, geotechnical, and environmental teams.
• Provide expert advice on construction methods, structural risk management, and material selection for underground works.
• Conduct site inspections, supervise construction activities, and provide input during tunnelling and shaft sinking operations.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to internal training programmes and knowledge‑sharing.
• Support business development through proposals and client engagement; participate in industry conferences.
• Promote health, safety, and equality in all aspects of work.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Team management

Education

Degree in Civil or Structural Engineering

Tools

STAAD.Pro

MIDAS

Robot

Job description

WSP in the UK & Ireland seeks a Principal Structural Engineer with proven expertise in underground structures, tunnels and shafts, to lead multidisciplinary teams on landmark UK, Irish, and international projects.

You will apply advanced structural analysis, ensure compliance with Eurocodes and BS codes, and mentor engineers while contributing to business development. The role endorses hybrid working and opportunities for global collaboration.