Principal Civil Engineer

ITS (Cardiff) Ltd; Cardiff; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading civil engineering contractor in Cardiff is seeking a Principal Engineer to lead complex projects and mentor junior staff. You will be pivotal in delivering innovative engineering solutions while ensuring compliance and risk management. The ideal candidate will have a degree in Civil Engineering and proficiency in design software. Join a supportive environment that values professional growth and community engagement.

Qualifications

• Strong technical understanding of engineering principles, construction standards, and best practice.
• Chartered Engineer (CEng) or working towards chartership.
• Proven experience in risk management and technical assurance.

Responsibilities

• Lead engineering input throughout pre‑construction.
• Provide technical leadership on bids.
• Champion sustainable and low‑carbon engineering approaches.

Skills

Strong technical understanding of engineering principles

Excellent communication skills

Proficiency in design software

Experience in CDM compliance

Education

Degree or HNC/HND in Civil Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

Civil 3D

Revit

Job description

Principal Engineer

This is an excellent opportunity to join one of the UK’s fastest-growing civil engineering contractors in a role that genuinely supports both personal and professional development.

This organisation isn’t just a workplace it’s a community built on strong values, ambition, and a commitment to helping people grow. Employees are supported, recognised, and encouraged to pursue careers that align with their goals and aspirations. You’ll be joining a team that invests in your well‑being, celebrates your achievements, and empowers you to thrive.

Principal Engineer

You will take a leading role in the technical delivery of complex civil engineering projects across a diverse and expanding portfolio. This position is well‑suited to someone who wants to work in a supportive yet ambitious environment with clear progression opportunities and a proactive approach to employee engagement.

Job Purpose

Lead the technical delivery of major civil engineering projects, ensuring excellence in design, construction methodology, technical assurance, and risk management. The Principal Engineer will act as a strategic advisor, technical authority, and mentor driving innovation, quality, and commercial success across the business.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead engineering input throughout pre‑construction from feasibility and outline design through to tender submission and project handover.
• Provide technical leadership on bids, including construction methodologies, sequencing, and risk‑mitigation strategies that maximise value and buildability.
• Carry out buildability reviews, value engineering, and technical risk assessments to ensure compliance, innovation, and cost efficiency.
• Develop and approve temporary and permanent works solutions in collaboration with designers, subcontractors, and suppliers.
• Champion sustainable and low‑carbon engineering approaches, incorporating SuDS, materials efficiency, and modern methods of construction.
• Support tender teams with technical scope writing, programme contributions, and responses to client technical queries.
• Act as a technical advisor during client and consultant meetings, articulating engineering strategies with clarity and confidence.
• Drive continuous improvement by capturing lessons learned and embedding them across pre‑construction workflows.
• Mentor and develop junior engineers, promoting a culture of technical excellence and learning.
• Undertake the role of Principal Designer under CDM 2015 where required.
• Represent the organisation at client presentations, design reviews, and industry events to showcase technical capability and innovation.

Key Requirements (Essential)

• Strong technical understanding of engineering principles, construction standards, and best practice.
• Chartered Engineer (CEng) or working towards chartership (ICE, IStructE, or equivalent).
• Proven experience in CDM compliance, risk management, and technical assurance.
• Proficiency in design software such as AutoCAD, Civil 3D, Revit, or similar.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to translate complex technical detail into clear, actionable guidance.
• Demonstrated ability to lead multidisciplinary design teams, mentor junior staff, and manage technical workflow.
• Experience engaging with clients, stakeholders, and producing high‑quality technical reports.

Desirable

• Experience in the energy or renewables sector.
• Strong understanding of buildability, temporary works, and construction sequencing.
• Knowledge of environmental permitting, flood risk, or water‑sensitive design principles.

Qualifications

Degree or HNC/HND in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or equivalent.

Why Join?

This organisation actively promotes diversity, inclusiveness, and equal opportunity across the workplace. They are committed to ensuring every individual has the support needed to reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to the business. The company also proudly supports the Armed Forces community and fosters a respectful, people‑focused culture.