Principal Mechanical Engineer

ANGLIAN WATER; Peterborough; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading water management organization in Peterborough seeks a Principal Mechanical Engineer to lead mechanical engineering solutions and manage a dynamic team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in mechanical engineering, proven leadership skills, and a commitment to sustainability principles. This role emphasizes innovation, compliance, and mentoring, with a diverse and inclusive workplace culture. Apply by December 5, 2025.

Qualifications

• Strong background in mechanical engineering, preferably within water treatment.
• Proven leadership experience with the ability to inspire teams.
• Understanding of sustainability principles including reducing carbon.

Responsibilities

• Lead Senior Mechanical Engineers and develop engineering solutions.
• Ensure compliance with quality and safety standards.
• Provide technical leadership and mentoring to the team.

Skills

Leadership

Mechanical engineering

Sustainability principles

Communication skills

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Degree in Mechanical Engineering

Job description

Who are we?

Here within the @one Alliance we are a totally collaborative organisation made up of our seven partner companies (Anglian Water, Balfour Beatty, Barhale, MMB, MWH Treatment, Skanska and SWECO) and our extended supply chain, delivering over half of Anglian Water’s capital investment programme. We are now in our most exciting and challenging Asset Management Period yet, known as AMP8, this will see us deliver a programme of work larger than we’ve ever delivered before. We’ll be embarking on a new kind of project delivery focusing on nature-based solutions like wetlands and urban drainage schemes.

We are driving change, empowering us to set global benchmarks and build a better environment, with the opportunity to offer enhanced growth and development to our workforce. We’re looking to build on our existing teams with an environment built for career progression.

With such an exciting portfolio of projects planned for AMP8 to keep the water flowing across the region, our ability to manage our work and outperform against our customer’s expectations will come under greater scrutiny. With a continued expectation to provide the highest standards of project design whilst ensuring we use innovation and creativity to deliver more with less, we are looking for a Principal Mechanical Engineer to join our large and dynamic team.

What will you be doing as our new Principal Mechanical Engineer?

As our Principal Mechanical Engineer, you'll lead the Senior Mechanical Engineers in designing and delivering cutting‑edge value driven mechanical engineering solutions that adhere to water quality standards while reducing carbon, enhancing natural capital, and embracing the challenges of climate change.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership:

• Foster innovative ways of working to achieve sustainable outcomes rather than outputs.
• Represent the @one Alliance as the mechanical engineering authority, providing expert guidance on quality and compliance issues.

Discipline Management:

• Develop procedures, standards, and guidance to achieve a "right‑first time" philosophy.
• Support the mechanical design team in delivering complex projects with suitable resources and methods.
• Provide direction and guidance to the team in appropriate design methods and assets.
• Collaborate with suppliers to ensure competency and performance and manage supplier frameworks.
• As part of the asset standards governance process identify, support, implement and approve standard products for delivery efficiency and consistency in projects.

Project Delivery:

• Support the identification of value‑driven solutions at Stage 1 of projects.
• Conduct audits (internal and external) to ensure compliance with quality standards and specifications.
• Lead the resolution of non‑compliance issues, competency gaps, and procedural improvements.
• Offer expert direction for complex design challenges and stakeholder engagement.

Health & Safety:

• Drive excellence in compliance with CDM regulations, ensuring safe and compliant designs.
• Conduct audits on mechanical safety standards (e.g., HAZOP, DSEAR) and lead improvements.
• Proficiency and application of Regulation 31 in relation to mechanical assets in water projects.

People & Team Development:

• Provide technical leadership, mentoring and career guidance to the mechanical engineering team.
• Champion professional development and qualifications while fostering an inclusive, respectful and diverse environment.

Transformation & Innovation:

• Inspire a culture of experimentation, safe failure and continuous improvement.
• Lead the introduction of new technologies and techniques to advance performance and sustainability.

About You

To thrive in this role, you’ll need a strong background in mechanical engineering, preferably within water treatment or similar industries. Proven leadership experience, with the ability to inspire teams and drive innovation. A deep understanding of sustainability principles, including reducing carbon and protecting natural capital. Excellent communication, collaboration and stakeholder engagement skills, and a passion for mentoring, professional development and fostering a positive workplace culture.

Our Approach to Diversity & Inclusion

At the Anglian Water’s @one Alliance, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives and talents. We believe that diversity enriches our team, fuels innovation and drives success. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, experiences and identities, and actively encourage individuals from underrepresented groups to apply. We are dedicated to creating an environment free from discrimination and bias, where everyone has equal opportunities for growth and advancement. Join us in creating a culture where diversity is celebrated and inclusion is the norm.

Alongside this we want to ensure that all candidates have an equal opportunity to showcase their abilities during the interview process. If you require any specific accommodations or adjustments due to a disability or any other individual circumstances, please do not hesitate to let us know.

Our vision

A collaborative alliance, driving change. Empowering us to set global benchmarks and building a better environment for our customers. We strive to: Empower our people; Delight our Customers; Embrace digital transformation; Deliver brilliance.

Our Values

To bring environmental and social prosperity to the region we serve through our commitment to Love Every Drop we: Build trust; Do the right thing; Are always exploring.

The Anglian Water @one Alliance

Eight partners, endless opportunities.

Closing date: 5 December 2025