Senior Design Engineer (Geotechnical & Piling)

Matchtech; Scotland; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm is seeking a Senior Geotechnical Design Engineer to join their pre-construction team in Scotland. This role requires at least 5 years of experience in geotechnical design and the ability to lead technical development for bids. The successful candidate will produce innovative, cost-effective design solutions and collaborate closely with estimators and design teams on complex infrastructure projects. Strong skills in managing stakeholders and mentoring junior engineers are essential. This position offers an opportunity for impactful work in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in the geotechnical or piling industry.
• Proven experience in designing geotechnical foundations, including load-bearing piles.
• Ability to manage multiple tenders simultaneously and meet tight deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Lead the technical development of design solutions for bids and tenders.
• Produce innovative and buildable geotechnical solutions.
• Review tender documents to ensure all technical requirements are met.

Skills

Geotechnical design

Strong communication skills

Collaborative approach

Project risk management

Education

Degree in Civil Engineering

Chartered or working towards Chartered status

Tools

WALLAP

OASYS

Repute

Plaxis

Job description

Overview

We are seeking an experienced Senior Geotechnical Design Engineer to join a high-performing pre-construction team. This role is ideal for a technically strong and commercially aware engineer who thrives in developing innovative, cost-effective, and safe design solutions for challenging ground engineering projects. You'll play a key part in developing winning tenders, creating compliant and value-driven designs, and supporting the business in securing new work. This is an excellent opportunity to work on complex infrastructure schemes, collaborating with estimators, bid managers, and design teams to deliver best-in-class engineering proposals.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the technical development of design solutions for bids and tenders, ensuring compliance with client specifications, design codes, and industry standards.
• Produce innovative and buildable geotechnical solutions that deliver added value for clients.
• Support estimators and pre-construction managers in developing accurate, competitive, and technically robust proposals.
• Review tender documents, drawings, and specifications to ensure all technical requirements are identified and fully addressed.
• Evaluate design and project risks, ensuring they are clearly communicated and appropriately mitigated.
• Collaborate with operations teams to ensure practical, efficient, and safe design solutions that align with delivery methods and schedules.
• Conduct design reviews, risk assessments, and quality checks on team outputs.
• Stay abreast of industry developments, innovations, and best practices within geotechnical engineering.
• Build strong relationships with clients, JV partners, and supply chain members throughout the tender process.
• Support knowledge sharing and mentoring of junior engineers within the team.
• Contribute to tender presentations and technical clarifications with clients and stakeholders.
• Prepare and communicate design intent and philosophy for successful handover to delivery teams post-award.
• Carry out site visits and technical audits to ensure design compliance and support operational excellence.

About You

To succeed in this role, you'll bring strong technical acumen, commercial awareness, and a proactive mindset. You'll have a proven ability to work effectively across disciplines, ensuring innovative yet practical engineering outcomes.

Essential qualifications and experience

• Degree in Civil Engineering or equivalent experience in ground engineering and piling design.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in the geotechnical or piling industry.
• Chartered or working towards Chartered status with ICE or similar professional body.
• Valid CSCS card.
• Proven experience designing geotechnical foundations, including load-bearing piles and retaining walls.
• Proficiency in geotechnical design software such as WALLAP and OASYS; experience with Repute and Plaxis is advantageous.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders and clients.
• Ability to manage multiple tenders simultaneously and meet tight deadlines.
• Collaborative approach and commitment to mentoring junior engineers.
• Demonstrates drive, adaptability, and a customer-focused mindset.