Principal Design Engineer

Total Connect div of AEC; Brighton; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in civil engineering is seeking a Principal Design Engineer to lead innovative design solutions in a collaborative environment. This role involves developing complex designs for infrastructure projects, ensuring compliance with industry standards, and mentoring junior engineers. You'll have the opportunity to work on exciting projects that shape the UK's coastal landscape while promoting innovation through advanced design technologies. Join a dynamic team dedicated to delivering high-quality engineering solutions and enjoy a competitive salary along with a comprehensive benefits package.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package

Career progression opportunities

Collaborative work environment

Qualifications

• Proven experience in temporary works design and ground stability analyses.
• Expertise in structural design and construction techniques.

Responsibilities

• Develop designs for tender and contract stages, including shoring and foundations.
• Provide technical leadership and supervise junior engineers.

Skills

Commercial awareness (NEC4 & JCT contracts)

Structural and geotechnical design

Leadership and mentoring

Effective communication

Construction techniques knowledge

Education

Degree in Civil/Structural Engineering

Chartered Engineer (ICE or equivalent)

CSCS Card

Temporary Works Coordinator certification

Tools

Microsoft 365

AutoCAD

Civils 3D

Revit

Infraworks

Navisworks

BIM (Building Information Modelling)

Job description

Principal Design Engineer (Ground Specialist)

Location: Brighton | Salary: Competitive + Benefits

Join a specialist civil engineering contractor delivering complex infrastructure projects across coastal, river, and flood defense sectors. This is an opportunity to lead innovative design solutions in a dynamic and collaborative environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop temporary and permanent works designs for tender and contract stages, including shoring, foundations, and ground stability analyses.
• Provide technical leadership, supervising junior engineers and managing external design support.
• Conduct technical reviews, ensuring accuracy and compliance with industry standards.
• Build strong relationships with clients, designers, and consultancies to enhance design outcomes and identify new opportunities.
• Maintain compliance with QHSE and CDM regulations, ensuring high-quality documentation.
• Promote innovation through BIM integration and digital modeling techniques.
• Stay ahead of advancements in design technology and industry best practices.
• Play a proactive role in shaping the success of the company.

Skills & Knowledge

• Commercial awareness (NEC4 & JCT contracts).
• Expertise in structural and geotechnical design.
• Understanding of certified management systems (ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001).
• Strong leadership and mentoring experience.
• Effective communication and relationship-building skills.
• Knowledge of construction techniques, environmental constraints, and licensing requirements.

Experience & Technology Skills

• Proven experience in temporary works design, including shoring, foundations, and ground stability analyses.
• Expertise in interpreting ground information for soil stability and piling practices.
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365 (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams).
• Competence in AutoDesk software (AutoCAD, Civils 3D, Revit, Infraworks, Navisworks).
• Working knowledge of BIM (Building Information Modelling).

Qualifications & Training

• Degree in Civil/Structural Engineering.
• Chartered Engineer (ICE or equivalent).
• CSCS Card.
• Temporary Works Coordinator certification.

What’s on Offer?

• Competitive salary + comprehensive benefits package.
• Career progression within a leading civil engineering firm.
• Exciting projects shaping the UK’s coastal and infrastructure landscape.
• Collaborative and innovative work environment.

Interested? Apply Today!