Principal Civil Engineer

ZipRecruiter; Cardiff; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading civil engineering consultancy in Cardiff seeks a Principal Civil Engineer to lead impactful projects. The role involves managing infrastructure designs, mentoring junior engineers, and ensuring project quality and delivery. This position offers a competitive salary, flexible working, and a comprehensive benefits package.

Benefits

Flexible working scheme

Professional development opportunities

Enhanced pension scheme

Private health insurance

Generous annual leave

Childcare vouchers

Cycle-to-work scheme

Company-funded social activities

Qualifications

• Minimum of eight years post-graduate experience in a consultancy.
• Chartered status or equivalent experience.
• Proficiency in drainage and highways design.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design of civil infrastructure projects.
• Manage quality assurance and technical standards.
• Mentor junior engineers and oversee project finances.

Skills

Communication

Project Management

Drainage Design

Highways Design

Client Management

Education

Degree in Civil Engineering

Tools

MicroDrainage

AutoCAD

Civil 3D

Microsoft Office

Job description

Job Description

Location: Cardiff

Make a Lasting Impact

Are you an experienced civil engineer looking to lead meaningful, community-focused projects? Join a respected multidisciplinary consultancy in Cardiff, where you’ll take ownership of infrastructure designs that shape sustainable, resilient places to live and work.

As Principal Civil Engineer, you’ll be responsible for the technical delivery, quality, and commercial performance of a diverse project portfolio. You’ll work hands-on with design while guiding and developing a capable team.

What You’ll Do

1. Lead the design of civil infrastructure projects, focusing on drainage, highways, and sustainable solutions.
2. Manage quality assurance, technical standards, and ensure on-time delivery across multiple projects.
3. Mentor and support junior engineers, fostering high performance and professional growth.
4. Oversee resource planning and project finances, collaborating with senior leadership.
5. Maintain strong relationships with clients, local authorities, and utility providers.
6. Ensure efficient handling of adoption processes and statutory approvals.

What You’ll Bring

• Degree in Civil Engineering or related field.
• Minimum of eight years post-graduate experience, preferably in a consultancy.
• Chartered status (or equivalent experience and capability).
• Proficiency in drainage and highways design, including adoption procedures.
• Knowledge of MicroDrainage, AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and Microsoft Office.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• UK driving licence.
• Client management experience or Welsh language skills are advantageous.

What’s In It For You

• Competitive salary based on experience.
• Flexible working scheme supporting work-life balance.
• Modern, accessible office environment with parking.
• Professional development opportunities, including ICE mentorship and CPD funding.
• Recognition and bonuses based on performance.
• Excellent benefits package: enhanced pension scheme, private health insurance (including dependants), free travel insurance, access to financial advice, generous annual leave, childcare vouchers, cycle-to-work scheme, free eye tests, office refreshments, and discounts on gyms and wellbeing services.
• Company-funded social activities and events.

The Company

This Cardiff-based civil and structural engineering consultancy operates across housing, care, industrial, renewable energy, remediation, and commercial sectors. With expanding presence in South Wales, the West of England, and into the rail sector, they are committed to sustainable growth.

Apply Today

If you're seeking a senior engineering role where you can lead with purpose, support others, and take pride in your work, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today and advance your career in a meaningful way.