Principal Mechanical Engineer

Anglian Water Services; Peterborough; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading water management organization is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer in Peterborough to lead innovative engineering solutions, ensuring compliance with water quality standards and sustainability principles. You will mentor a team and drive health and safety compliance. Ideal candidates will have a strong mechanical engineering background and proven leadership experience.

Qualifications

• Strong background in mechanical engineering, preferably in water treatment.
• Proven leadership experience with the ability to inspire teams.
• Deep understanding of sustainability principles.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Senior Mechanical Engineers in delivering mechanical engineering solutions.
• Develop procedures and standards for design compliance.
• Drive health and safety compliance in mechanical design.

Skills

Mechanical engineering

Leadership

Sustainability principles

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Degree in Mechanical Engineering

Job description

Overview

Here within the @one Alliance we are a totally collaborative organisation made up of 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 in AMP8, delivering a programme of work larger than ever before, focusing on nature-based solutions such as wetlands and urban drainage schemes. We drive change to set global benchmarks and build a better environment, offering enhanced growth and development to our workforce. We are building on existing teams with an environment built for career progression. Our portfolio for AMP8 requires high standards of project design, innovation and efficiency, and 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 will 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 meeting 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.

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 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. If you require any accommodations during the interview process, please let us know.

Our Vision & Values

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, and deliver brilliance.

Our Values To bring environmental and social prosperity to the region we serve through Love Every Drop: build trust, do the right thing, and are always exploring.

The Anglian Water @one Alliance. Eight partners, endless opportunities.

Closing date: 23 September 2025