Principal Civil Engineer

Bigen Group; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 800 000 - 1 200 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading water infrastructure company in Pretoria is seeking a Principal – Water Infrastructure to lead teams and manage high-impact projects. The ideal candidate will have over 10 years of experience, a degree in Civil Engineering, and a strong background in business development and technical oversight. This role offers a negotiable compensation package based on experience and qualifications.

Qualifications

• 10+ years' experience in water/wastewater infrastructure.
• Demonstrated experience working with public and private sector clients.
• Comprehensive knowledge of water governance and regulatory compliance.
• International experience required.
• Proven experience leading multi-disciplinary project teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of engineers and project managers.
• Manage water infrastructure projects from design to implementation.
• Drive growth of service offerings and identify business opportunities.
• Provide operational leadership to support service delivery.

Skills

Leadership

Project Management

Technical Oversight

Client Engagement

Business Development

Risk Management

Education

Honours or Masters degree in Civil Engineering

Professionally Registered Engineer

Job description

About the Company

We are seeking a Principal – Water Infrastructure to join our Pretoria office and lead multidisciplinary teams in delivering high-impact water and sanitation projects, lead strategic growth initiatives, and drive business development within the water sector.

About the Role

The role is ideal for a senior water professional with both deep technical expertise and strong leadership experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor and grow a team of engineers and project managers.
• Manage and deliver a range of water infrastructure projects from design through implementation.
• Provide technical and strategic oversight across water infrastructure projects.
• Drive effective project implementation, addressing risk factors and overseeing the technical planning process.
• Continuously improve project delivery by incorporating international best practices.

Growth and Business Development

• Drive growth of existing service offerings and identify business opportunities.
• Develop and implement strategies aligned with the organisation's vision.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key public sector stakeholders (e.g. municipalities, water boards).
• Lead strategic initiatives that support organisational expansion and sector leadership.

Business Operations

• Provide operational leadership to support delivery and expansion of services.
• Identify and implement improvements to enhance business performance.
• Oversee risk management of operational matters.
• Contribute to talent development through coaching, mentoring, and leadership support.
• Collaborate with senior leadership as a thought partner on key decisions and strategic direction.

Qualifications and Experience

• Honours or Masters degree in Civil Engineering.
• Professionally Registered Engineer (local or international).
• 10+ years' experience in water/wastewater infrastructure.
• Demonstrated experience working with public and private sector clients.
• Comprehensive knowledge of water governance, utility models, infrastructure finance and regulatory compliance, with demonstrated ability to apply this experience.
• International experience is a key requirement.
• Proven experience leading multi-disciplinary project teams.
• Strong experience and proven track record in client engagement, business development, and risk management (technical and commercial).

Pay range and compensation package

Negotiable and based on the candidate's qualifications and years of relevant experience.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Bigen is a transformative, purpose-driven organisation dedicated to fostering inclusive growth and meaningful change. As part of our ongoing commitment to Employment Equity, we actively promote the representation and inclusion of individuals from designated groups, including persons with disabilities.

Preference will be given to suitably qualified candidates who enhance the diversity of our workforce.