Principal Design Engineer

ACS Performance; Basildon; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering company is seeking a Principal Design Engineer (Ground Specialist) to lead the design of geotechnical and structural projects. This role involves supervising junior staff, ensuring engineering excellence, and integrating innovative BIM technologies. The successful candidate will have proven expertise in the field and strong leadership skills.

Qualifications

• Proven expertise in geotechnical design and interpreting ground information.
• Strong experience in temporary works like piling and soil retention.
• Excellent leadership, mentoring, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop temporary and permanent works designs including shoring and foundations.
• Review and approve engineering calculations and technical documents.
• Supervise and mentor junior engineers.

Skills

Geotechnical design

Leadership

Communication

Commercial awareness

BIM integration

Education

Degree in Civil or Structural Engineering

Chartered Engineer (ICE or equivalent)

CSCS Card holder

Certified Temporary Works Coordinator

Tools

Microsoft 365

AutoCAD

Civils 3D

Revit

BIM tools

Job description

Job Description

We are seeking an experienced and technically strong Principal Design Engineer (Ground Specialist) to lead the development and delivery of both temporary and permanent works designs. This role plays a critical part in ensuring engineering excellence across complex geotechnical and structural projects, with a focus on foundations, ground stability, and shoring systems. You'll supervise junior staff, manage external support, and collaborate closely with internal teams, clients, and consultancies, while driving innovation through BIM and digital technologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop temporary and permanent works designs including shoring, foundations, and ground stability.

• Review and approve engineering calculations, drawings, and technical documents.

• Supervise and mentor junior engineers and manage third-party design input.

• Ensure compliance with QHSE standards, company procedures, and industry regulations.

• Build and maintain strong working relationships with clients and project stakeholders.

• Promote and integrate BIM and digital modelling tools into design processes.

• Support continual improvement initiatives and innovation in design practices.

• Lead or participate in contract discussions with awareness of NEC4 and JCT frameworks.

Skills & Experience Required

• Proven expertise in geotechnical design and interpreting ground information.

• Strong experience in temporary works (e.g., piling, soil retention, ground stability).

• Commercial awareness, especially with NEC4 and JCT contracts.

• Excellent leadership, mentoring, and communication skills.

• In-depth knowledge of H&S, construction methods, plant, and environmental legislation.

• Proficient in Microsoft 365, AutoCAD, Civils 3D, Revit, and BIM tools.

Qualifications (Desirable)

• Degree in Civil or Structural Engineering.

• Chartered Engineer (ICE or equivalent).

• CSCS Card holder.

• Certified Temporary Works Coordinator.

ACS are recruiting for a Principal Design Engineer. If you feel that you have the skills and experience required in this advertisement to be a (Job Title) submit your CV including an outline of your experience as a Principal Design Engineer. It is always a good idea to include a covering letter outlining your experience as a Principal Design Engineer with your application as this will enhance your chances of selection and improve your prospects of landing the Principal Design Engineerrole you desire.

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