Principal Design Engineer

ACS Performance; England; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Principal Design Engineer to lead innovative design projects focusing on geotechnical and structural engineering. This role involves developing both temporary and permanent works designs, ensuring compliance with industry standards, and mentoring junior engineers. You will collaborate with clients and stakeholders while promoting the integration of BIM and digital technologies into design processes. If you have a strong background in geotechnical design and are passionate about driving engineering excellence, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• Proven expertise in geotechnical design and interpreting ground information.
• Strong experience in temporary works including piling and soil retention.
• In-depth knowledge of health & safety and environmental legislation.

Responsibilities

• Develop temporary and permanent works designs including shoring and foundations.
• Supervise and mentor junior engineers while managing third-party design input.
• Ensure compliance with QHSE standards and promote innovation in design.

Skills

Geotechnical Design

Temporary Works

Leadership

BIM Tools

Communication Skills

Commercial Awareness

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

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.