Principal Civil Engineer - Structural Design

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid & pension

Significant annual leave entitlement

Career development opportunities

Iconic projects in Cape Town

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town seeks a Principal Civil Engineer to lead structural design for major civil and building projects, including commercial, residential and industrial facilities. You will guide design teams, ensure code compliance and deliver sustainable solutions.

The role requires a Master’s degree, Pr.Eng registration, and 12+ years of progressive experience, with strong leadership, client liaison, and project management skills.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Civil/Structural Engineering.
• Professional Engineer registration (Pr.Eng.) with ECSA is mandatory.
• Demonstrated experience leading design of complex building structures (high-rise, commercial, residential).
• Proficiency with structural analysis software (SAP2000/ETABS) and Revit Structure.
• Strong knowledge of SANS and international building codes.
• Excellent leadership, communication and project management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deliver under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Lead the structural design process for major civil and building projects from concept to completion.
• Manage and mentor teams of structural engineers and designers.
• Develop innovative and cost-effective structural solutions.
• Ensure all designs meet safety, quality, and regulatory standards.
• Conduct detailed structural analysis and calculations using advanced software.
• Prepare comprehensive design reports, drawings, and specifications.
• Liaise with clients, architects, contractors, and stakeholders.
• Oversee construction support activities related to structural elements.
• Contribute to business development and technical proposals.
• Stay current with advancements in structural engineering materials and methods.

Skills

Leadership

Client liaison

Project management

Communication skills

Mentorship

Education

Master's degree in Civil/Structural Engineering

Pr. Eng. registration with ECSA

Tools

SAP2000

ETABS

Revit Structure

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious engineering consultancy based in Cape Town, Western Cape , is seeking a highly accomplished Principal Civil Engineer with extensive expertise in Structural Design. This senior leadership position involves taking charge of the structural design aspects of complex, large-scale projects, including commercial buildings, residential complexes, and specialized industrial facilities. The successful candidate will lead design teams, provide expert technical guidance, ensure compliance with all relevant codes and standards, and foster strong client relationships. This role demands exceptional technical acumen, strategic thinking, and proven leadership capabilities. The Principal Engineer will be instrumental in driving innovation and delivering high-quality, sustainable structural solutions for critical infrastructure in and around Cape Town .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the structural design process for major civil and building projects from concept to completion.
• Manage and mentor teams of structural engineers and designers.
• Develop innovative and cost-effective structural solutions.
• Ensure all designs meet stringent safety, quality, and regulatory standards.
• Conduct detailed structural analysis and calculations using advanced software.
• Prepare comprehensive design reports, drawings, and specifications.
• Liaise effectively with clients, architects, contractors, and other stakeholders.
• Oversee construction support activities related to structural elements.
• Contribute to business development and technical proposal preparation.
• Stay current with advancements in structural engineering materials, technologies, and methodologies.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Civil/Structural Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in structural engineering design, with a significant portion in a principal or lead role.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration with ECSA is essential.
• Demonstrated experience leading the design of complex building structures (high-rise, commercial, residential).
• Expertise in structural analysis software (e.g., SAP2000, ETABS, Revit Structure).
• Thorough knowledge of South African National Standards (SANS) and relevant international building codes.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and project management skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and deliver results under pressure.
• Strong client-facing and presentation skills.
• Commitment to mentorship and the development of engineering talent in Cape Town .

Benefits

• Highly attractive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and pension fund benefits.
• Significant annual leave entitlement.
• Opportunities for career advancement and professional development.
• Exposure to iconic projects shaping the future of Cape Town 's skyline.
• A collaborative and stimulating work environment.