Senior Civil Engineer - Large-Scale Earthworks

Blackwell Earthmoving Limited; Basildon; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Blackwell Earthmoving Limited, part of Hargreaves Services Plc, is seeking a Senior Engineer to lead earthworks activities on major infrastructure projects in the UK. You will ensure safe, efficient delivery and maintain the highest standards of quality and compliance.

You will oversee planning, resolve technical challenges with site teams, and apply best practices to keep projects on track while maintaining rigorous QA and documentation practices.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of experience in civil engineering, preferably on large-scale infrastructure projects.
• Proficiency in site surveying, QA, and modern construction methods.
• Eligible for ICE membership as a graduate and progressing towards Incorporate d Engineer (IEng) status.

Responsibilities

• Conduct GNSS-based site surveys and set out earthworks using batter rails and stakeouts.
• Review and validate 3D machine control models for automated earthmoving equipment.
• Interpret drawings, specifications, and works information with the Foreman to determine construction methods.
• Prepare and maintain essential project documentation: RAMS, ITPs, and Checklists.
• Manage QA processes and ensure all checks are completed before work begins.
• Perform spot soil quality checks, including moisture and plasticity testing.
• Support near-term rolling-wave planning to maintain project efficiency.
• Identify and report contractual events to the Commercial Team.

Skills

Site surveying

Quality assurance

Modern construction methods

3D machine control models

Education

ICE Membership eligibility

Job description

At Blackwell Earthmoving Limited, part of the Hargreaves Services Plc., we deliver large-scale bulk earthworks, soil stabilisation, and land restoration with precision and expertise.

As a trusted partner on nationally significant projects including HS2, Sizewell C, and the Lower Thames Crossing we bring unrivalled capability to complex infrastructure schemes. From highways and rail networks to renewable energy developments, our solutions combine engineering excellence with environmental responsibility, creating sustainable foundations for future growth.

As Senior Engineer, you will take a leading role on all earthwork’s activities ensuring they are executed safely, efficiently, and to the highest standards of quality and compliance.

You will oversee planning and coordination, resolve technical challenges, and guide site teams whilst tracking progress, and applying best practices to ensure efficient, high-quality delivery.

What you’ll be doing

• Conducting GNSS-based site surveys and setting out earthworks using batter rails, travellers, and visualisation stakeouts.
• Reviewing and validating 3D machine control models for automated earthmoving equipment.
• Interpreting drawings, specifications, and works information to determine optimal construction methods with the Foreman.
• Preparing and maintaining essential project documentation: Plans, RAMS, ITPs, and Checklists.
• Managing QA processes and ensuring all checks are completed before work begins.
• Performing spot soil quality checks, including plasticity and moisture content testing.
• Supporting near-term rolling-wave planning to maintain project efficiency.
• Identifying and reporting contractual events to the Commercial Team.
• Accurately documenting verbal instructions with supporting sketches and details.

What We’re Looking For

• 4+ years of experience in civil engineering, ideally with a strong focus on earthworks and large-scale infrastructure projects.
• Proficiency in site surveying, quality assurance, and modern construction methods.
• Eligible for ICE membership as a graduate and committed to progressing towards Incorporated Engineer (IEng) status.
• Proficiency in site surveying, quality assurance, and modern construction methods.

Who We Are

At Hargreaves Services Plc, we’re not just a contracted services provider – we’re shaping the future of UK industry.

As a trusted partner to the UK’s infrastructure markets, we deliver solutions that accelerate development and drive industrial transformation.

From clean energy and environmental innovation to land regeneration, logistics, and low-carbon material supply, our contracted services drive economic growth while building a sustainable legacy for generations to come.

Our Vision

Our vision is to be the leader in the provision of contracted services in the next era of UK infrastructure development; we support growth in the Connectivity, Clean Energy, and Environmental sectors.

Our proven expertise and ability to deliver bespoke, high-quality services set the benchmark for excellence in UK infrastructure. Powered by a growing, inspired team and bold growth strategies - both targeted and organic - we’re positioned to play a defining role in shaping the nation’s future.