Principal Structural Engineer – Underground Structures

WSP; Leeds; Hybrid; GBP 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid working

Gymflex

Virtual GP

Job summary

WSP in the United Kingdom is seeking a Principal Structural Engineer to lead the design and delivery of underground structures, including tunnels and shafts, across the UK, Ireland, and internationally. You will apply advanced structural principles, manage risk, and ensure compliance with Eurocodes and BS standards.

The role combines field supervision with technical leadership, offering development and international opportunities.

Qualifications

• Degree in Civil or Structural Engineering (postgraduate qualification desirable).
• Extensive experience in structural design for underground shafts and tunnels, including temporary and permanent works.
• Proficiency in structural analysis software (STAAD.Pro, MIDAS, Robot) and geotechnical modelling tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead structural design for underground structures such as tunnels, shafts, and related works from concept through detailed design and construction phases.
• Apply advanced structural engineering principles to develop safe, efficient, and innovative solutions for underground projects.
• Ensure compliance with Eurocodes, BS codes, ITA guidelines, and local regulations.
• Undertake and review structural analyses including load assessments, ground-structure interaction modelling, and design of support systems.
• Collaborate with geotechnical teams to integrate ground behaviour into structural solutions.
• Manage technical delivery of multi-disciplinary projects, coordinating inputs from civil, geotechnical, and environmental teams.
• Provide expert advice on construction methods, risk management, and material selection for underground works.
• Conduct site inspections, supervise construction activities, and provide input during tunnelling and shaft sinking operations.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to internal training programmes and knowledge-sharing initiatives.
• Support business development through proposal preparation, client engagement, and industry conference participation.
• Promote health, safety, and equality in all aspects of work, adhering to company policies and values.

Skills

Underground design

Project leadership

Multi-disciplinary teams

Communication skills

Travel

Education

Degree in Civil/Structural Eng

Tools

STAAD.Pro

MIDAS

Robot Structural Analysis

Job description

Job Description

What if you could shape a career as unique as you?

At WSP, you can access our global scale, contribute to landmark projects and connect with the brightest minds in your field to do the best work of your life. You can embrace your curiosity in a culture that celebrates new ideas and diverse perspectives. You can experience a world of opportunity and the chance to shape a career as unique as you.

A little more about your role…

We are seeking an experienced Principal Structural Engineer with a proven track record in the design and delivery of underground structures, including tunnels, shafts, and associated works. You will join a diverse team of engineers, scientists, and modellers, contributing to landmark projects across the UK, Ireland, and internationally. Our team values collaboration and diversity of experience, and we offer an integration period to help you familiarise yourself with colleagues and projects.

The Role

• Lead structural design for underground structures such as tunnels, shafts, and related works from concept through detailed design and construction phases.
• Apply advanced structural engineering principles to develop safe, efficient, and innovative solutions for underground projects.
• Ensure compliance with relevant design standards and guidance (e.g., Eurocodes, BS codes, ITA guidelines, and applicable local regulations).
• Undertake and review structural analyses including load assessments, ground-structure interaction modelling, and design of temporary and permanent support systems.
• Collaborate with geotechnical teams to integrate ground behaviour considerations into structural solutions.
• Manage technical delivery of multi-disciplinary projects, coordinating inputs from civil, geotechnical, and environmental teams.
• Provide expert advice on construction methods, structural risk management, and material selection for underground works.
• Conduct site inspections, supervise construction activities, and provide technical input during tunnelling and shaft sinking operations.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to internal training programmes and knowledge-sharing initiatives.
• Support business development through proposal preparation, client engagement, and participation in industry conferences.
• Promote health, safety, and equality in all aspects of work, adhering to company policies and values.

What we will be looking for you to demonstrate

• Degree qualified in Civil or Structural Engineering (postgraduate qualification desirable).
• Extensive experience in structural design for underground shafts and tunnels, including temporary and permanent works.
• Strong understanding of structural behaviour under complex loading conditions and ground-structure interaction.
• Familiarity with tunnelling methods (e.g., TBM, NATM, SCL) and shaft sinking techniques.
• Proficiency in structural analysis software (e.g., STAAD.Pro, MIDAS, Robot, or similar) and integration with geotechnical modelling tools.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and lead multi-disciplinary teams.
• Excellent communication skills and willingness to travel within the UK and internationally.

If you don't meet all that we are looking for please still consider applying. Not everyone will meet all the requirements, but you might have skills we didn't know we need.

Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all.

Work on landmark projects around the world and embrace opportunities to make an even bigger impact in the communities you care about. What if you could do the best work of your life and create a legacy for yourself?

About Us

We are one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms. Our passionate people are united by the common purpose of creating positive, long-lasting impacts on the communities we serve through a culture of innovation, integrity, and inclusion. With over 11,000 professionals across the UK and Ireland, we are dedicated to our local communities and propelled by international brainpower.

WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU?

Work-life balance

• Our hybrid working policy offers the flexibility to work from home two days a week, while also providing opportunities to collaborate in our modern offices across the UK.

Inclusivity & Belonging

We welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and experiences. We enable rewarding careers by encouraging people to bring their whole and authentic selves to work so that our work represents the fullest spectrum of society. We celebrate integrity and treat people with respect, supporting each other and embracing a culture of inclusion and belonging at WSP. We have our employee resource groups bring together employees and allies with different backgrounds to promote a culture of inclusivity.

Health & Wellbeing

• We are committed to supporting our people, giving you the tools to make improvements to your health and wellbeing through our Thrive programme.
• Our Virtual GP service gives you access to an NHS or Irish Medical Council GP at a time and place that suits you – giving you peace of mind and quick access to medical advice when you need it most.
• We also provide reasonable workplace adjustments for those in need.
• Additionally, you can benefit from the Gymflex scheme, which offers up to 40% off annual gym memberships through our WSP flexible benefits program, as well as a comprehensive menopause support package.

Flex your time

• To enhance work-life balance, WSP offers the “WSP My Hour,” allowing you to take one hour each day for personal activities, with the flexibility to make up the time earlier or later that day.
• We also provide part-time and flexible working arrangements, the option to purchase additional leave, and the ability to use your bank holiday entitlement to suit you.

Your development

• We understand the importance of development and training to you. That's why we foster a supportive environment that invests in your growth, whether through training, mentoring, or Chartership.

#WeAreWSP

Here at WSP we positively encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy or maternity/paternity. As a Disability Confident leader, we will interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria, please let us know if you require any workplace adjustments in support of your application.