Principal Mechanical Engineer

Alexander Associates; Topsham; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in the UK is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer to focus on delivering high-quality engineering solutions in the water sector. This role offers a flexible hybrid working environment and requires extensive experience in design and project management. The ideal candidate should possess strong understanding of water treatment principles and proven staff management experience. A degree in engineering or equivalent experience is essential, along with professional membership.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience designing complex process systems.
• Strong understanding of water treatment principles.
• Proven experience managing staff in designing water and sewage treatment plants.

Responsibilities

• Develop cost-effective and compliant design layouts.
• Provide detailed estimates to support proposals.
• Ensure effective coordination with engineering disciplines.

Skills

Designing complex process systems

Understanding of water treatment principles

Managing staff

Analyzing technical data

Strong communication skills

Proficient with relevant software

Education

Relevant engineering degree or equivalent experience

Membership in a professional institution or Chartered status

Job description

We are seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer with experience of working in the UK water sector. This position offers the opportunity to work in a flexible hybrid environment, with a primary focus on delivering high-quality engineering design solutions for turnkey and engineering services contracts. You will play a critical role in minimizing risks and maximizing the profitability of projects while ensuring that all designs adhere to health and safety standards, specifications, and contract requirements.

Responsibilities

• Develop cost-effective and compliant design layouts that meet project specifications and can be constructed and commissioned effectively. Consider all costs associated with the design, including design time, materials, erection, and potential impacts on other disciplines.
• Apply standard practices wherever possible to maintain competitiveness in the market.
• Provide detailed estimates and feedback to support the Proposals department.
• Work within established procedures to continuously improve the department's processes and efficiency.
• Assist in developing, updating, and reviewing procedures to streamline operations.
• Ensure effective coordination with all other engineering disciplines to maintain alignment throughout the project lifecycle.
• Maintain comprehensive files and records throughout the duration of each contract.
• Strive for customer satisfaction by ensuring designs and services meet or exceed expectations, whether for external clients or internal teams.
• Develop and maintain a personal development plan, actively seeking to improve skills and knowledge.
• Mentor and assist in the development of junior engineering staff.
• Contribute to maintaining a safe and productive working environment for all team members.
• Focus on reducing waste and environmental impact through all departmental activities.
• Ensure designs comply with all relevant health and safety regulations.

Qualifications & Experience

• Extensive experience designing complex process systems.
• Strong understanding of water treatment principles.
• Proven experience managing staff in designing water and sewage treatment plants.
• Membership in a professional institution or Chartered status.
• A relevant engineering degree or equivalent experience.
• Ability to produce rationalized designs and cost-effective plant layouts.
• Solid knowledge across multiple engineering disciplines, including mechanical, process, electrical, and project management.
• Ability to analyze large amounts of technical data and draw clear conclusions.
• Strong communication skills to present technical proposals clearly and confidently.
• Proficient with computer software relevant to the role.
• A valid driving license