Principal Mechanical Design Engineer (Water)

RPS Group; Birmingham; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

RPS Group is looking for a Principal Mechanical Design Engineer (Water) in Birmingham to lead projects that improve river health and deliver sustainable water solutions. This role offers a chance to work on significant frameworks in the UK water sector, contributing to impactful projects and a resilient environment.

Benefits

Clear development plan and career pathway

Support for staff growth and wellbeing

Flexible work environment

Development opportunities within a global leader

Qualifications

• Experience in the production of technical specifications and design of pumping systems.
• Familiarity with design reviews and HAZOP safety considerations.
• Strong communication skills and ability to deliver technical presentations.

Responsibilities

• Participate in all project phases from feasibility to construction support.
• Liaise with project managers, clients, supply chain, and contractors.
• Review technical designs, specifications, and reports.

Skills

Mechanical engineering principles

Water industry experience

Knowledge of pump design

Knowledge of safety regulations

Education

IMechE-accredited degree

Postgraduate qualifications

Tools

AutoCAD

Inventor

Job description

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Principal Mechanical Design Engineer (Water), Birmingham

Client:

RPS Group

Location:

Birmingham, United Kingdom

Job Category:

Other

EU work permit required: Yes

Job Reference:

1b00daebf1a9

Job Views:

63

Posted:

24.06.2025

Expiry Date:

08.08.2025

Job Description:

Principal Mechanical Design Engineer (Water)

We are recruiting multiple Principal Mechanical Design Engineers (Water) for long-term frameworks across the UK, including a £100 million framework with United Utilities to improve river health in Northwest England.

RPS has over 20 years of collaboration with United Utilities on innovative water projects. As we approach AMP8, this is an exciting period to work in the water industry and create positive change.

Under this 10-year framework, RPS will optimize programs, develop solutions, and select options based on value, low carbon footprint, and cost, aiming to deliver exceptional water services and support a resilient, eco-friendly Northwest.

About The Team:

RPS Water Consulting comprises Engineers, Modellers, and Data Analysts providing Asset Management and Operational Strategy services to water industry clients, supporting planning and delivery. The industry offers challenges and opportunities requiring innovation, dedication, and teamwork.

In addition to the United Utilities framework, RPS works with several major water companies across the UK, with a broad portfolio of long-term frameworks. Our water programs lead into AMP8 and beyond, offering long-term career stability.

About You:

You should have experience producing technical specifications, designing pumping and aeration systems, and preparing reports. Familiarity with collaborative planning, design reviews, and safety considerations like HAZOPs is essential. You should understand water and wastewater treatment processes and be skilled in assessing infrastructure for mechanical design.

Strong communication skills and the ability to deliver technical presentations are required. Joining us means working on impactful projects with leading organizations, contributing to the water industry, and leaving a legacy for future generations. We seek dedicated professionals to help us achieve our mission.

Your Responsibilities:

• Participate in all project phases from feasibility to construction support, including site surveys.
• Work on diverse projects within long-term frameworks across the UK water sector.
• Liaise with project managers, clients, supply chain, and contractors to achieve project goals.
• Support project delivery alongside senior engineers and mentors.
• Review technical designs, specifications, and reports.
• Engage with clients to understand project requirements.
• Interpret technical drawings using AutoCAD or Inventor.
• Conduct asset surveys and prepare reports.
• Contribute to P&ID development and produce mechanical design deliverables.
• Support compliance with CDM duties and quality assurance procedures.

Skills, Knowledge, and Experience:

• Strong understanding of mechanical engineering principles.
• Water industry experience is advantageous.
• Knowledge of pump design, P&ID creation, specifications, and safety regulations.
• Familiarity with contract procurement methods, including NEC.
• Ability to manage work within time, cost, and quality constraints.
• Support for junior staff development.
• Willingness to travel and inspect sites, witness testing, and perform asset surveys.
• Experience with design tools like AutoCAD is beneficial but not essential.

Qualifications:

• An IMechE-accredited degree; postgraduate qualifications are a plus.
• Chartered status or working towards it.
• Membership or application in a professional body such as IET, InstMC, or CIWEM.

What’s in it for you?

A clear development plan and career pathway, with support for your growth. We value diversity, encourage different perspectives, and prioritize wellbeing. Join us to make a meaningful impact in the water industry and leave a lasting legacy.

Why RPS?

We foster a collaborative, flexible work environment with hybrid options, enabling work-life balance. As part of Tetra Tech since January 2023, a global leader with over 28,000 employees, we offer extensive development opportunities and impactful projects.

Join Us:

Make a difference in water management and contribute to sustainable solutions. Apply now to be part of our innovative team.