Principal Civils Engineer

Proftech Talent; Manchester; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm is seeking a Principal Civil Design Engineer to lead innovative civil engineering solutions in the water sector. The role requires at least 10 years of experience, strong leadership, and proficiency in relevant IT tools. Candidates with a Chartered Engineer status will have an advantage. This position offers a competitive salary and excellent benefits including flexible working hours and a generous pension scheme.

Benefits

Generous pension scheme - 9% total contribution

Excellent holiday package - 23 days annual leave + 8 public holidays

Flexible working hours

Free on-site gym

Fresh fruit in the office

Exclusive benefits through Circular Benefits platform

Qualifications

• At least 10 years' experience in civil design within the regulated water industry.
• Proven leadership at Senior or Principal Engineer level.
• Strong understanding of hydraulics.
• Chartered Engineer status (CEng).
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.

Responsibilities

• Lead and approve the delivery of design outputs, including reports and specifications.
• Identify and communicate efficient design solutions from scopes and site visits.
• Ensure compliance with safety, quality, and technical standards across all deliverables.
• Provide technical guidance throughout project lifecycles.
• Support the development of junior engineers and CAD technicians.

Skills

Strong technical knowledge in civil design

Excellent communication and collaboration abilities

Results-oriented

Effective problem-solving and decision-making

Ability to mentor and support team growth

Education

Degree or HND in Civil Engineering or similar

Tools

Proficiency in IT tools relevant to design engineering

Job description

Overview

Principal Civil Design Engineer - Water • Location: Manchester • Job Type: Permanent • Salary: 70-75k

About the Role

We're looking for a Principal Civil Design Engineer to lead the delivery of innovative, safe, and sustainable civil engineering solutions across the water sector. In this senior role, you'll be responsible for overseeing design standards, guiding technical delivery, and mentoring a talented team of engineers and technicians. This is a fantastic opportunity to shape water infrastructure projects that make a real difference to communities, while developing your leadership and technical influence.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and approve the delivery of design outputs, including reports, drawings, DRAs, and specifications.
• Identify and communicate efficient design solutions from scopes and site visits.
• Ensure compliance with safety, quality, and technical standards across all deliverables.
• Provide technical guidance throughout project lifecycles - from tender to completion.
• Act as Responsible Engineer (CRE) or Professional Head for specific projects.
• Support the development of junior engineers, graduates, and CAD technicians.
• Manage change within design packages, ensuring accurate implementation and documentation.
• Attend and present at ALM and KM meetings.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of design standards and best practices.

What We're Looking For

• Required:
• At least 10 years' experience in civil design within the regulated water industry.
• Proven leadership at Senior or Principal Engineer level.
• Strong understanding of hydraulics.
• Degree or HND in Civil Engineering or similar.
• Chartered Engineer status (CEng).
• Proficiency in IT tools relevant to design engineering.
• Desirable:
• Experience in both clean and wastewater design.
• Familiarity with infrastructure and non-infrastructure projects.
• Awareness of construction methods and materials.
• Knowledge of Engineering Drawing Practices.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.

Key Skills

• Strong technical knowledge in civil design.
• Excellent communication and collaboration abilities.
• Results-oriented, with a focus on delivering high-quality outcomes.
• Effective problem-solving and decision-making.
• Committed to continuous personal and professional development.
• Ability to mentor and support team growth.

Why Join Us?

• Generous pension scheme - 9% total contribution
• Excellent holiday package - 23 days annual leave + 8 public holidays
• Flexible working - Start between 7:00 AM and 10:00 AM to suit your lifestyle
• Free on-site gym - Stay fit without the extra cost
• Fresh fruit in the office - Small perks that make a difference
• Exclusive benefits - Access lifestyle perks through Circular Benefits platform

If you're a motivated engineering leader ready to drive impactful design solutions in the water sector, we'd love to hear from you