Principal Civil Engineer

Our Water company client are seeking a Principal Civil Engineer on a permanent basis with remote working, based out of their Falmer office.



Our client are seeking a highly experienced Principal Civil Engineer to provide technical leadership in the delivery of water (predominantly non-infrastructure) projects. As a key figure within the Civils team, you will guide the design team, provide detailed technical analysis, and ensure successful project delivery. You will work closely with Project Design Leads and stakeholders, driving innovation, ensuring value for money, and delivering solutions that meet high standards of safety, sustainability, and quality.



Responsibilities



Operate in compliance with health, safety, and environmental standards (including CDM regulations).

Develop risk assessments and mitigation strategies.

Ensure that designs promote environmental sustainability.

Lead and provide technical guidance on the design of water non-infra projects.

Prepare design calculations, specifications, and technical content for contracts.

Oversee approval of designs and ensure compliance with technical governance and QA processes.

Manage project budgets and resolve complex design issues.

Challenge existing practices and promote continuous improvement.

Research and implement industry best practices, including digital design concepts.

Support the Discipline Lead in maintaining and updating technical standards.

Deliver cost-effective, low-carbon solutions that meet project budgets.

Assist Project Managers with budget tracking and financial planning.

Programme Management

Ensure design timelines are achievable and proactively address potential delays.

Ensure designs meet customer and regulatory expectations.

Represent the company at industry conferences and contribute to technical papers and press releases.



Skills/experience/qualifications



Full Driving Licence

Proficient in MS Office and relevant IT design tools

Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey technical ideas to both experts and laypeople.

Ability to work independently, resolve complex engineering problems, and make confident decisions.

A collaborative team player who values input from others and works effectively in cross-functional teams.

A proactive leader with the ability to set measurable goals and drive continuous improvement.

MEng/BEng/BSc or HNC in Civil Engineering, Environmental, or a numerate science-related subject.

Chartered Engineer with a relevant engineering or scientific institution.

Proven track record in delivering water non-infra projects within the UK Water Industry.

Extensive knowledge of design processes, safety standards, and regulatory compliance.

In-depth understanding of the commercial environment within the water industryBenefits



Full-time Monday to Friday 37 hours a week.

Remote working will be permitted - candidate must open to 2 days in Falmer ideally though remote working maybe offered depednant on skill level/interview process

Salary of up to £75,000 per annum depending on skills and experience

Company and performance-related bonus

Generous pension up to 11% company contribution

25 days annual leave plus bank hols

Life assurance equal to 4x salary

Salary sacrifice electric car scheme (after 6 months service)

Health Cash Plan

Two paid volunteering days a year

Competitive maternity leave and flexible return to work options