Principal Drainage Engineer - London

Jacobs; Warrington; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in the UK is seeking a Principal Drainage Engineer to shape sustainable infrastructure. You will lead drainage design projects, engage with clients, and mentor junior engineers. The ideal candidate has a degree in Civil Engineering and chartered status, with strong technical experience in drainage and flood mitigation design. Excellent communication skills are essential for this role, which allows flexibility in working location.

Qualifications

• Strong technical experience in drainage and flood mitigation design.
• Proven experience leading teams and managing multidisciplinary projects.
• Thorough understanding of DMRB, local authority standards, Sewerage Sector Guidance, and the SuDS Manual.

Responsibilities

• Lead drainage and flood mitigation design across all project stages.
• Engage directly with clients and stakeholders.
• Mentor junior engineers and foster collaboration.

Skills

Drainage and flood mitigation design

Team leadership

Excellent communication

Interpersonal skills

Proficiency in drainage modelling software

Education

Degree in Civil Engineering or related discipline

Chartered Engineer status

Tools

Drainage modelling software

Job description

Principal Drainage Engineer - London

As a Principal Drainage Engineer, you'll take a leading role in shaping sustainable infrastructure across Leeds, Manchester, Warrington, and the wider North West‑delivering high‑quality drainage and flood mitigation solutions for highways and urban environments as part of the SDF framework. With a strong technical foundation and chartered status, you'll guide multidisciplinary teams and act as a trusted advisor to key clients, supporting local authorities and major stakeholders across the region.

You’ll lead project delivery from concept through to implementation, ensuring technical excellence, regulatory compliance, and client satisfaction. Your experience working with local councils, Lead Local Flood Authorities, and water authorities will be instrumental in driving successful outcomes across a growing portfolio of regional infrastructure projects.

In this role, you will :

• Lead drainage and flood mitigation design across all project stages, ensuring quality and sustainability.
• Engage directly with clients and stakeholders, representing Jacobs in meetings and project development.
• Mentor junior engineers and foster collaboration across multidisciplinary teams and offices.
• Coordinate with UK and global teams to deliver integrated, high‑performing solutions.
• Work flexibly from London or the surrounding area, with regular presence in the office or on client sites.

Jacobs' Transportation team is recognised for delivering high‑profile projects for clients including National Highways, Transport Scotland, Network Rail, Welsh Government, Transport Infrastructure Ireland, HS2 Ltd, and numerous Local Authorities. You'll be part of a team known for excellence in design, sustainability, safety, and collaboration-contributing to award‑winning work on projects like HS2.

Thriving communities. Healthy cities. A brighter future.

If you're ready to lead with purpose and make a lasting impact-Jacobs is ready to invest in you.

Qualifications

• A degree in Civil Engineering or a related discipline
• Chartered Engineer status
• Strong technical experience in drainage and flood mitigation design
• Proven experience leading teams and managing multidisciplinary projects
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with client-facing experience
• Thorough understanding of DMRB, local authority standards, Sewerage Sector Guidance, and the SuDS Manual
• Experience working with local councils, LLFAs, and water authorities
• Proficiency in drainage modelling software and tools
• Working knowledge of health and safety legislation

#UKTransportation #LI-AS5 https : / / careers.jacobs.com / en_US / careers / JobDetail / 28548 Leeds|West Yorkshire|United Kingdom

Warrington|Cheshire|United Kingdom

Manchester|Greater Manchester|United Kingdom Civil and Structural Transportation