Lead Engineer : Water & Sanitation

Empire Recruitment; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 50,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering recruitment agency is seeking a highly skilled Lead Engineer: Water & Sanitation based in Pretoria, Gauteng. This pivotal role involves overseeing water and sanitation projects, mentoring junior staff, and ensuring compliance with standards. Candidates should have a BSc/BEng/BTech with relevant registration, plus 10+ years experience in consulting engineering. Strong leadership and project management skills are essential for success in this career-defining opportunity.

Qualifications

• 10+ years post-graduate experience in consulting engineering.
• Strong administrative and management experience.
• Proven expertise with FIDIC and/or contracts.

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, design, and management of water and sanitation projects.
• Manage procurement processes and tender documentation.
• Liaise with clients, stakeholders, and government bodies.

Skills

Leadership skills

Project management

Communication

Detail-focused

Education

BSc / BEng / BTech with Pr Eng / Pr Tech Eng registration

Masters degree in Civil Engineering (advantageous)

Tools

MS Office

MS Project

EPANET

Civil 3D

Job description

Summary

We reHiring: Lead Engineer t Water & Sanitation

Pretoria, Gauteng

Our client in the engineering industry is seeking a highly skilled Lead Engineer: Water & Sanitation to join their team. This is a leadership role where you will report directly to the Division Head: Water & Sanitation, driving project success, mentoring teams, and delivering innovative infrastructure solutions.

Position Info

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the planning, design, and management of water and sanitation projects across all six ECSA stages.
• Manage procurement processes, prepare tender documentation, and administer contracts.
• Oversee construction monitoring and site implementation (part-time or full-time as required).
• Undertake detailed designs for pipelines, pump stations, reservoirs, and bulk infrastructure.
• Procure and manage specialist sub-service providers.
• Prepare feasibility studies, proposals, business plans, and technical reports.
• Mentor and supervise junior staff, ensuring knowledge transfer and team development.
• Liaise with clients, stakeholders, and government bodies (e.g. DWS, GOGTA).
• Ensure compliance with ISO9001:2015, BMS, and PMOG standards.
• Stay updated on industry trends, research, and technology advancements in water & sanitation.

What You Need:

• BSc / BEng / BTech with Pr Eng / Pr Tech Eng registration.
• A Masters degree in Civil Engineering or related field is advantageous.
• 10+ years post-graduate experience in consulting engineering.
• Strong administrative and management experience.
• Proven expertise with FIDIC and/or contracts (NEC exposure is a plus).
• Proficiency in MS Office, MS Project, EPANET, Civil 3D or similar software.
• Exceptional communication, leadership, and teamwork skills.
• Detail-focused, deadline-driven, and able to manage tasks independently.
• Willingness to travel locally and across Africa when required.

This is a career-defining opportunity to lead impactful projects, shape the future of water and sanitation infrastructure, and contribute to sustainable development across Africa.

Apply today and lets start building your future.