Principal Mechanical Design Engineer

Pertemps; Reading; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm is looking for a Principal Mechanical Design Engineer to support major water and wastewater projects in Reading. The role involves defining project requirements, leading a team, and enhancing mechanical asset standards. Ideal candidates should have a degree in Mechanical Engineering, chartered status, and experience in the water sector. The position offers a competitive salary ranging from £60,000 to £80,000, a car allowance, and various benefits, including private healthcare and bonuses.

Benefits

Annual bonus and performance-linked rewards

Private medical healthcare

26 days annual leave plus bank holidays

Qualifications

• Degree-level qualification (or equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering.
• Chartered status through a recognised professional body.
• Strong background in sludge treatment, water and wastewater systems.

Responsibilities

• Define technical requirements for effective project delivery.
• Enhance mechanical asset standards for better performance.
• Lead design and assurance of mechanical systems in water environments.

Skills

Mechanical Engineering

Leadership

Project Management

Education

Degree in Mechanical Engineering

Chartered Status

Job description

Job title: Principal Mechanical Design Engineer – Water Sector

Location: Reading

Hours: 36 hours per week (Hybrid working available)

Salary: £60,000 - £80,000 + £5,800 car allowance

An excellent opportunity has arisen for an experienced Principal Mechanical Design Engineer to take a leading role within a forward-thinking organisation supporting major water and wastewater infrastructure programmes.

This position offers the chance to influence engineering strategy, guide standards, and provide expert leadership across technically challenging projects, while contributing to sustainable asset delivery and innovation in the sector.

Role Overview

The successful candidate will act as a senior technical authority for mechanical engineering, responsible for shaping project requirements, driving engineering quality, and delivering robust solutions. Key responsibilities include:

• Defining clear and accurate technical requirements to support effective project delivery
• Enhancing mechanical asset standards to improve performance and efficiency
• Leading the design and assurance of mechanical systems within water and wastewater environments
• Overseeing technically focused projects and providing mentorship to engineering teams
• Providing technical sign-off and assurance throughout project lifecycle stages
• Supporting the evaluation and introduction of new technologies

First Off – What’s In It For You?

• £65,000 – £80,000 depending on experience, plus £5,800 car allowance
• Annual bonus and performance-linked reward scheme
• 26 days annual leave (rising with length of service) plus bank holidays
• Private medical healthcare and wellbeing support
• Additional benefits including life assurance, professional support schemes, and various employee incentives

Experience & Qualifications

To be considered, applicants should demonstrate:

• Degree-level qualification (or equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering
• Chartered status through a recognised professional body
• Strong background in relevant disciplines such as sludge treatment, biogas/CHP, water and wastewater treatment systems, pumping and pipework, or process equipment
• Previous involvement in senior or lead design engineering positions
• Good understanding of regulatory compliance within the UK water industry
• Experience within the water sector will be an advantage.

Interested? Please click ‘apply’ to find out more.