Principal Mechanical Engineer

WSP in the UK & Ireland; Cardiff; On-site; GBP 75,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

WSP is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer to lead mechanical design and delivery for process projects in fine chemicals, food and pharmaceutical sectors, based in Cardiff. You will drive technical excellence, manage scope, cost and schedule across all project stages.

You will oversee piping, 3D modelling, data sheets and site support during construction and commissioning, coordinating with multi‑discipline teams and ensuring compliance with industry codes.

Qualifications

• Degree qualified in mechanical engineering (BEng, BSc, MEng).
• Chartered Engineer or MIMechE desirable.
• Experience in mechanical design engineering in process industries.
• Experience with process plant piping design and specification.
• Knowledge of CAD and 3D modelling software.
• Familiarity with piping design codes (ASME B31.3/BS EN 13480).
• Construction site experience on process industry projects.
• Experience managing or coordinating design and engineering teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical engineering on projects, controlling technical delivery, costs, changes and programme at all stages.
• Design, engineering, calculations and specifications.
• Assist with preparation of flowsheets and engineering line diagrams.
• Supervise plant layout and pipework design including 3D modelling.
• Generate and supervise preparation of data sheets, piping and equipment specifications.
• Provide site support during construction and commissioning, including field engineering assignments.
• Conduct design studies, safety reviews and Designers Risk Assessments.
• Coordinate with all other disciplines.
• Prepare cost estimates and maintain man‑hour/resource forecasts.
• Prepare and contribute to design programmes.
• Review designs & proposals for conformance with regs, standards, and codes.
• Comply with the company’s quality and safety procedures.
• Line‑manage and supervise graduate engineers.

Skills

CAD

3D modelling

Piping design

Project leadership

Team management

Client liaison

Cost control

Regulatory compliance

Education

Degree in mechanical engineering

Chartered Engineer desirable

Tools

Caesar II

AutoCAD

PDMS/AVEVA

Job description

Job Summary

WSP is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer to lead mechanical engineering design and delivery for process projects in fine chemicals, food, and pharmaceutical sectors.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical engineering on selected projects, controlling technical delivery, costs, changes and programme at all stages of projects
• Design, engineering, calculations and specifications
• Assist with preparation of flowsheets and engineering line diagrams
• Supervise plant layout and pipework design including 3D modelling
• Generate and supervise preparation of data sheets, piping and equipment specifications, technical appraisals and selection
• Provide site support during construction and commissioning, including field engineering assignments
• Conduct design studies, safety reviews and Designers Risk Assessments
• Coordinate with all other disciplines
• Prepare cost estimates
• Prepare and maintain man‑hour and resource forecasts
• Prepare and contribute to design programmes
• Review designs & proposals for conformance with applicable regulatory standards, policies, and codes of practice
• Comply with the company’s quality and safety procedures
• Line‑manage and supervise graduate engineers

Key Experience and Knowledge

• Experience of mechanical design engineering in process related industries
• Specific expertise in the design, layout, engineering and specification of process plant and piping for the pharmaceuticals, food and fine chemicals industries
• Experience within the contracting industries and/or a process plant operator would be beneficial
• Knowledge of CAD and 3D modelling software
• Pipe stress analysis (Caesar II or equivalent)
• Pipe support design and specification
• Familiarity with piping design codes e.g. ASME B31.3/BS EN 13480
• Knowledge of PER/ATEX/CDM
• Construction site experience on process industry projects
• Experience managing or coordinating design and engineering teams

Personal Profile

• A leader capable of drawing the best out of a team
• Organised logical thinker, open to new ideas and having pride in the work done
• Confident and articulate with clients and with peers
• Has a desire to find both the appropriate technical solution and value for money for customers
• Professional flexible approach to meeting the needs of customers
• Able to work within a team and maintain formal and informal client contacts
• Interpersonal skills to work as part of a multi‑discipline team
• 10 years or more of relevant mechanical engineering experience

Qualifications

• Degree qualified in mechanical engineering (BEng, BSc, MEng)
• Chartered Engineer or MIMechE desirable