Senior Design Engineer (Civils)

Thomas Gray Ltd; Reading; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading housebuilder in Reading is seeking a Senior Civil Engineer to lead the civil engineering aspects of residential developments. You'll oversee design, ensure compliance, and manage project teams in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. This role requires proven experience in housing and infrastructure projects, as well as strong communication and leadership skills. The position offers competitive remuneration and a range of complex projects to work on.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Senior Engineer within housebuilding or related construction.
• Strong understanding of traditional build housing, infrastructure design, and groundworks.
• Track record of managing multiple projects and securing statutory approvals.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage Civil Engineering aspects of residential developments.
• Oversee design and delivery of infrastructure, drainage, and highways.
• Coordinate consultants and contractors to ensure compliance and cost-effectiveness.

Skills

Problem solving

Communication skills

Leadership

Engineering design

Proficiency in CAD software

Job description

Overview

We are partnered with a successful housebuilder to strengthen their Technical department with a Senior Civil Engineer who can operate with autonomy and drive their live projects forward and problem solve. This is an off-market opportunity that we are handling exclusively and will consider relevant low-rise traditional build housing exposure gained with Developers, Main Contractors and Consultancy. A strong eye for detail and the ability to scrutinise civils design. You will enjoy a fast-paced environment with large-scale developments with a variety of complexities in the ground, coupled with strong remuneration and first class pipeline of land making this an opportune and stable place to work.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage Civil Engineering aspects of multiple residential developments from pre-construction through to completion.
• Oversee the design and delivery of infrastructure, drainage, highways, and external works.
• Liaise with local authorities, statutory bodies, and utility providers to secure approvals and agreements (S38, S278, S104, etc.).
• Coordinate consultants and contractors to ensure engineering solutions are cost-effective, buildable, and compliant with all regulations.
• Review and approve engineering drawings, specifications, and calculations.
• Provide technical guidance to site teams to resolve engineering issues during construction.
• Manage adoption processes for completed roads and sewers.
• Monitor project budgets, timelines, and risks related to engineering scope.
• Drive value engineering initiatives to optimise designs without compromising quality or compliance.

Key Skills & Experience

• Proven experience as a Senior Engineer within housebuilding or a related construction environment.
• Strong understanding of traditional build housing, infrastructure design, and groundworks.
• Familiarity with relevant design standards, Building Regulations, and adoption procedures.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and stakeholders simultaneously.
• Skilled in problem solving and delivering practical engineering solutions under time pressure.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills, with the ability to influence across disciplines.
• Proficiency in engineering design and CAD software.
• Track record of securing statutory approvals and delivering projects to agreed cost and programme.