Mechanical Design Lead - Water & Wastewater

Veolia | Ireland; Kilkenny; Hybrid; EUR 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Veolia is seeking a Design Lead (Mechanical Engineering) in Kilkenny. The role leads the mechanical design team across Ireland, guiding multidisciplinary projects from concept through handover, and mentoring engineers to deliver innovative water and wastewater treatment solutions.

The position reports to the Mechanical Design Manager and focuses on technical excellence, client liaison, and resource planning within a hybrid work model.

Qualifications

• Level 8 or 9 qualification in Mechanical Engineering (or equivalent).
• Minimum of 7 years' experience in design engineering, ideally within the Water industry.
• Demonstrated experience in leading teams and managing design projects.
• Proven people management and team development skills.
• Strong understanding of mechanical systems, hydraulic design, and process plant layout.
• Experience with design templates, modelling, and calculation software.
• Excellent communication, organisational, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and deliver high-quality outputs under pressure.
• Practical site experience (Desirable).

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and direction to design teams delivering water and wastewater treatment projects.
• Manage the full design lifecycle - from concept and feasibility through detailed design, implementation, and handover.
• Coordinate multi-disciplinary teams to ensure timely delivery of design outputs that meet client, budget, and programme requirements.
• Act as the key point of contact for clients, supporting strong relationships and successful project outcomes.
• Review and approve design documentation including mechanical layouts, equipment specifications, and P&IDs.
• Provide technical guidance and oversight to ensure designs comply with relevant standards, codes, and project quality requirements.
• Mentor, coach, and develop design engineers, supporting their professional and technical growth.
• Work closely with the Mechanical Design Manager to plan resource allocation and manage performance across the team.
• Drive continuous improvement, innovation, and knowledge sharing within the design function.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Team development

Communication

Stakeholder management

Mechanical design

Hydraulic design

P&IDs review

Education

Level 8/9 Mechanical Engineering degree

Tools

Modelling software

Calculation software

Job description

Veolia is seeking a Design Lead (Mechanical Engineering) in Kilkenny. The role leads the mechanical design team across Ireland, guiding multidisciplinary projects from concept through handover, and mentoring engineers to deliver innovative water and wastewater treatment solutions.

The position reports to the Mechanical Design Manager and focuses on technical excellence, client liaison, and resource planning within a hybrid work model.