Principal Civil Engineer - Infrastructure

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive benefits

Remote work options

Leadership development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Principal Civil Engineer to lead major infrastructure projects from Port Elizabeth, with flexible remote options for exceptional candidates. You will guide design teams, mentor engineers, and ensure compliance with standards while driving innovation in delivery.

The role demands a Master’s in Civil Engineering, Pr Eng registration, and at least 12 years of progressive leadership in infrastructure.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Civil Engineering or related field.
• Professional Engineer (Pr Eng) registration with ECSA is mandatory.
• Minimum of 12 years of progressive civil engineering experience with leadership roles.
• Experience leading large, multidisciplinary infrastructure projects.
• Expertise in infrastructure design software (AutoCAD, Civil 3D, water/wastewater modelling).
• Strong business acumen and ability to manage client relationships and project financials.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and remote team management skills.
• Remote or hybrid work experience is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead conceptualization, planning, and design of major civil infrastructure projects (roads, water, sanitation, stormwater).
• Provide technical direction and oversight to project teams for quality and efficiency.
• Manage key client relationships, leading negotiations and ensuring satisfaction.
• Develop innovative engineering solutions and adopt new technologies/methodologies.
• Conduct advanced analyses, risk assessments, and feasibility studies.
• Mentor and develop junior/mid-level engineers for technical growth.
• Oversee proposals, tenders, and project documentation.
• Ensure compliance with national/international standards and regulations.
• Represent the company in technical forums and contribute to best practices.

Skills

Project leadership

Client management

Civil 3D

AutoCAD

Mentoring

Remote team leadership

Education

Master's in Civil Eng

Tools

Civil 3D

AutoCAD

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a distinguished civil engineering firm renowned for its significant contributions to infrastructure development across South Africa. We are seeking a highly experienced and visionary Principal Civil Engineer to join our dynamic team. While the role is primarily based in Port Elizabeth , we are offering a remote work option for exceptionally qualified candidates, recognizing the need for flexibility in securing top talent. This senior position will involve leading complex infrastructure projects, providing strategic direction, mentoring engineering staff, and driving innovation in design and delivery. You will be instrumental in shaping the future of our region's infrastructure, working on projects ranging from municipal services to large-scale development schemes. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned professional to make a lasting impact and lead at the forefront of civil engineering innovation, leveraging advanced digital tools to collaborate effectively regardless of location. We foster a culture of technical excellence, continuous learning, and collaborative problem-solving.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, planning, and design of major civil infrastructure projects, including roads, water, sanitation, and stormwater systems.
• Provide expert technical direction and oversight to project teams, ensuring the highest standards of quality and efficiency.
• Manage key client relationships, leading negotiations and ensuring client satisfaction throughout project lifecycles.
• Develop innovative engineering solutions and champion the adoption of new technologies and methodologies.
• Conduct advanced engineering analyses, risk assessments, and feasibility studies.
• Mentor and develop junior and mid-level engineers, fostering a culture of growth and technical mastery.
• Oversee the preparation of proposals, tenders, and project documentation.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant national and international engineering standards and regulations.
• Represent the company in technical forums and contribute to industry best practices.

Requirements

• A Master's degree in Civil Engineering or a related field.
• Professional Engineer (Pr Eng) registration with ECSA is mandatory.
• A minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in civil engineering, with substantial leadership roles in infrastructure development.
• Demonstrated experience in leading and managing large, multidisciplinary infrastructure projects.
• Expertise in infrastructure design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Civil 3D, water/wastewater modelling software).
• Strong business acumen and proven ability to manage client relationships and project financials.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, crucial for remote team management.
• Proven ability to innovate and implement cutting-edge engineering solutions.
• Experience in a remote or hybrid work environment is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and executive-level benefits package.
• Significant influence on project outcomes and company strategy.
• Opportunity to work on landmark infrastructure projects impacting Port Elizabeth and surrounding regions.
• Flexibility of remote work arrangements for the right candidate.
• Access to advanced training and leadership development programs.
• Contribution to a legacy of engineering excellence and community development.
• A stimulating and intellectually challenging work environment.