Principal Civils Engineer

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

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in the UK seeks a Principal Civil Design Engineer to drive innovative solutions in the water sector. You will lead design projects, ensure quality standards, and mentor a team. The ideal candidate has over 10 years of experience and Chartered Engineer status. This position offers a competitive salary and excellent benefits including a pension scheme and flexible work hours.

Benefits

Generous pension scheme

Excellent holiday package

Flexible working hours

Free on-site gym

Fresh fruit in the office

Access to lifestyle perks

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in civil design within the water industry.
• Proven leadership at Senior or Principal Engineer level.
• Strong understanding of hydraulics.

Responsibilities

• Lead design outputs, ensuring compliance with safety and quality.
• Provide technical guidance throughout project lifecycles.
• Support the development of junior engineers and technicians.

Skills

Technical knowledge in civil design

Communication and collaboration

Problem-solving

Results-oriented

Mentoring ability

Education

Degree or HND in Civil Engineering

Chartered Engineer status (CEng)

Tools

IT tools relevant to design engineering

Job description

Overview

Principal Civil Design Engineer - Water — Location: Manchester — Employment: 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.

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