Principal Mechanical Engineer

ZipRecruiter; Peterborough; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A collaborative engineering company is looking for a Principal Mechanical Engineer to lead innovative mechanical solutions for water projects. You will manage a team, ensure compliance with industry standards, and drive sustainability initiatives. The ideal candidate has a strong mechanical engineering background and proven leadership skills. This position offers a competitive salary and numerous benefits supporting professional growth and well-being.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Company Pension

Life Assurance

Private Medical

Profit share scheme

25 days annual leave plus public holidays

Volunteering leave

Employee Assistance Programme

Flexible benefits

Company car/green car scheme

Qualifications

• Strong background in mechanical engineering, ideally in water treatment or related industries.
• Proven leadership experience and ability to inspire teams.
• Deep understanding of sustainability principles.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and delivery of mechanical solutions that meet water quality standards.
• Develop procedures and guidance to support project delivery.
• Drive compliance with health and safety regulations.

Skills

Mechanical engineering background

Leadership experience

Communication skills

Understanding of sustainability

Collaboration skills

Job description

Overview

Principal Mechanical Engineer – part of the @one Alliance, a collaboration of seven partner companies delivering Anglian Water’s capital investment programme. The role supports AMP8 delivery, focusing on nature-based solutions and innovative project delivery. You will lead Senior Mechanical Engineers in designing and delivering value-driven mechanical solutions that meet water quality standards, reduce carbon, enhance natural capital, and address climate change challenges.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership: foster innovative, sustainable ways of working to achieve outcomes rather than merely producing outputs; represent the @one Alliance as the mechanical engineering authority on quality and compliance.
• Discipline Management: develop procedures, standards, and guidance to support a right‑first‑time philosophy; ensure resources and methods are appropriate for complex projects.
• Team Support: provide direction and guidance on design methods and assets; collaborate with suppliers to ensure competency and performance; manage supplier frameworks.
• Asset Standards Governance: identify, support, implement and approve standard products to improve delivery efficiency and consistency across projects.
• Project Delivery: identify value-driven solutions at Stage 1 of projects; conduct internal and external audits to verify compliance with quality standards and specifications; lead resolution of non‑compliance issues, competency gaps, and procedural improvements.
• Technical Direction: offer expert direction for complex design challenges and stakeholder engagement.
• Health & Safety: drive compliance with CDM regulations and ensure safe, compliant designs; conduct audits of mechanical safety standards (e.g., HAZOP, DSEAR) and lead improvements; apply Regulation 31 for mechanical assets in water projects.
• People & Team Development: provide technical leadership, mentoring, and career guidance; champion professional development, inclusion, and a respectful work environment.
• Transformation & Innovation: inspire a culture of experimentation and continuous improvement; lead the introduction of new technologies and techniques to advance performance and sustainability.

Skills, Experience & Behaviours

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.

Values & Investment in People

Our values are central to how we care for people. As a Gold Investors in People company and a Sunday Times 100 Best Company to Work For, we are committed to investing in people and supporting your well-being and career aspirations.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Company Pension
• Life Assurance
• Private Medical
• Profit share scheme
• 25 days of annual leave plus 8 public bank holidays and loyalty days
• Volunteering leave (8 hours)
• Employee Assistance Programme for mental, physical and financial wellbeing
• Flexible benefits via salary sacrifice
• Company car/green car scheme or car allowance/van (dependent on position)
• Leadership & management training and coaching
• Regular line management engagement and appraisal
• Development supported by internal and externally delivered training
• Continuous service awards