Principal Engineer - Civil / Structural Engineering and Automation

GHD; Chester; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

GHD is seeking a Principal Civil/Structural Engineer to transform engineering solutions through automation. You'll lead design, manage projects, and mentor junior engineers while ensuring compliance with standards. Join a diverse, forward-thinking team dedicated to innovative, efficient engineering practices.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in civil/structural engineering automation.
• Strong background in structural and civil design.
• Experience with geotechnical engineering and foundation design.

Responsibilities

• Lead civil and structural design and manage medium-sized projects.
• Drive automation initiatives for engineering delivery.
• Mentor junior engineers and ensure compliance with standards.

Skills

Automation

Civil Engineering

Structural Engineering

Mentorship

Leadership

Education

Chartered Engineer status (IStructE or ICE)

Relevant engineering degree

Tools

.NET

Python

Git

Tekla/TEDDS

Robot

3D Revit/BIM

Job description

Join GHD as a Principal Civil/Structural Engineer – Automation (P006)

Location: London, Manchester, Newcastle, or Leeds (within GHD EMEA Region)

Reports to: Discipline Design Lead

Job Type: Full-time | Hybrid Working Available

About the Role

Are you passionate about engineering innovation and automation? GHD is seeking a Principal Civil/Structural Engineer to lead the charge in transforming how we deliver engineering solutions. This is more than a traditional engineering role — it's an opportunity to shape the future of design through cutting-edge automation and continuous improvement.

You’ll play a key role in delivering high-quality projects on time and within budget, while also driving innovation across our engineering processes. Collaborating with global experts and local teams, you’ll help us deliver smarter, more efficient outcomes for our clients.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead civil and structural design, calculations, and technical drawings across a variety of materials and structural forms.
• Manage medium-sized projects and contribute to larger, multidisciplinary efforts.
• Drive automation initiatives to enhance engineering delivery and design efficiency.
• Mentor and support junior engineers, fostering a culture of knowledge sharing.
• Ensure compliance with client, industry, and GHD standards.
• Collaborate with project managers, design managers, and technical leads to achieve best-for-project outcomes.
• Engage with the EDO Leadership Team and global SMEs to embed innovation across the business.

What You’ll Bring

• Proven experience in civil/structural engineering automation, including coding in .NET, Python, and Git.
• Familiarity with agile methodologies and DevOps for software development.
• Strong background in structural and civil design across water and industrial sectors.
• Experience with geotechnical engineering, retaining walls, and foundation design.
• Proficiency in Eurocodes, structural design software (e.g., Tekla/TEDDS, Robot), and 3D Revit/BIM processes.
• Demonstrated leadership on engineering projects (£100–250k).
• Chartered Engineer status (IStructE or ICE) and a relevant engineering degree.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Project delivery to time, budget, and quality standards.
• Innovation ROI through automation adoption.
• Team development and internal workshare performance.
• Contribution to a strong safety, culture, and community ethos.

Why GHD?

At GHD, we’re committed to solving the world’s biggest challenges in water, energy, and urbanisation. You’ll join a collaborative, forward-thinking team that values innovation, sustainability, and continuous learning.

Ready to engineer a better future?

Apply now and be part of a global team that’s reshaping the way we design and deliver infrastructure.