Principal Structural Engineer

Job Description

Principal Structural Engineer\n\nLocation: Manchester\nType: [Full-Time \nSalary: 70-75k\n\nPurpose of the Role\n\nWe 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.\n\nKey Responsibilities\n\nEnsure design teams deliver outputs that meet safety, quality, and technical standards\n\nApprove design deliverables, including DRAs, technical reports, and specifications\n\nIdentify effective design solutions through site visits and project scoping, and communicate these clearly to stakeholders\n\nLead, mentor, and develop engineers, CAD technicians, and graduates\n\nEnsure compliance with all relevant technical, industry, and water company standards\n\nManage and document design changes within formal processes\n\nEstimate resource and time requirements for structural design packages\n\nRepresent the team in ALM, KM, and similar technical review meetings\n\nInterpret and brief teams on changes in standards, regulations, and procedures\n\nAct as the Professional Head of Discipline and/or Responsible Engineer (CRE) on key projects\n\nDrive technical excellence and continuous improvement across all project phases\n\nEssential Qualifications & Experience\n\nMinimum 10 years' structural design experience at senior or principal level\n\nExtensive experience in at least one of the following sectors:\n\nRail\n\nWater\n\nOil & Gas\n\nNuclear\n\nHighways\n\nBridges\n\nDegree (or HND) in Structural or Civil Engineering\n\nProficient in IT and engineering design tools\n\nChartered Engineer (CEng or equivalent)\n\nPreferred Qualifications & Experience\n\nDesign experience within regulated water and/or rail industries\n\nStrong understanding of construction methods and materials\n\nFamiliarity with engineering drawing practices and standards\n\nFull UK driving licence and access to a vehicle\n\nKey Skills & Competencies\n\nStrong technical leadership and engineering knowledge\n\nClear, confident communication (written and verbal)\n\nResults-driven and solution-focused\n\nCommitted to personal and team development\n\nProactive in problem solving and decision-making\n\nCollaborative and confident under pressure\n\nBenefits\n\nAnnual Leave: 23 days + 8 public/bank holidays\n\nAdditional holiday entitlement after 2 years' service (up to 5 extra days)\n\nOption to purchase up to 5 additional days per year\n\nPension Scheme:\n\n4% employee contribution (after tax)\n\n1% tax relief on contributions\n\n4% employer contribution\n\nTotal contribution: 9%\n\nWellbeing & Lifestyle:\n\nFresh fruit provided in the office\n\nFree on-site gym\n\nAccess to Circular Lifestyle Benefits platform\n\nJoin Us\n\nIf 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