Principal Structural Engineer

Principal Structural Engineer

Location: Manchester
Type: [Full-Time
Salary: 70-75k

Purpose of the Role

We are seeking an experienced Principal Structural Engineer to lead the delivery of high-quality, safe, and innovative structural designs across regulated industries. You''ll be responsible for the technical integrity of projects, supporting both our clients and internal teams with expert guidance, leadership, and direction.

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure design teams deliver outputs that meet safety, quality, and technical standards

• Approve design deliverables, including DRAs, technical reports, and specifications

• Identify effective design solutions through site visits and project scoping, and communicate these clearly to stakeholders

• Lead, mentor, and develop engineers, CAD technicians, and graduates

• Ensure compliance with all relevant technical, industry, and water company standards

• Manage and document design changes within formal processes

• Estimate resource and time requirements for structural design packages

• Represent the team in ALM, KM, and similar technical review meetings

• Interpret and brief teams on changes in standards, regulations, and procedures

• Act as the Professional Head of Discipline and/or Responsible Engineer (CRE) on key projects

• Drive technical excellence and continuous improvement across all project phases

Essential Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum 10 years'' structural design experience at senior or principal level

• Extensive experience in at least one of the following sectors:

  • Rail

  • Water

  • Oil & Gas

  • Nuclear

  • Highways

  • Bridges

• Degree (or HND) in Structural or Civil Engineering

• Proficient in IT and engineering design tools

• Chartered Engineer (CEng or equivalent)

Preferred Qualifications & Experience

• Design experience within regulated water and/or rail industries

• Strong understanding of construction methods and materials

• Familiarity with engineering drawing practices and standards

• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle

Key Skills & Competencies

• Strong technical leadership and engineering knowledge

• Clear, confident communication (written and verbal)

• Results-driven and solution-focused

• Committed to personal and team development

• Proactive in problem solving and decision-making

• Collaborative and confident under pressure

Benefits

• Annual Leave: 23 days + 8 public/bank holidays

  • Additional holiday entitlement after 2 years'' service (up to 5 extra days)

  • Option to purchase up to 5 additional days per year

• Pension Scheme:

  • 4% employee contribution (after tax)

  • 1% tax relief on contributions

  • 4% employer contribution

  • Total contribution: 9%

• Wellbeing & Lifestyle:

  • Fresh fruit provided in the office

  • Free on-site gym

  • Access to Circular Lifestyle Benefits platform

Join Us

If you''re ready to take the lead in shaping the future of structural engineering within regulated sectors, apply today and be part of a team that values innovation, technical excellence, and continuous improvement

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