Engineering Manager (Civils / Structural)
Location: Maidstone, Kent
Salary: £65,000 to £75,000 (DOE) + Package + Benefits
Hours: Full-time, Permanent
About the Company
Up Front Recruitment are recruiting on behalf of a leading civil engineering contractor, groundworks specialist and housebuilder. This business is part of a respected construction group with a strong reputation across South East England, delivering high-quality residential, commercial, healthcare, and education projects.
With a focus on collaboration, sustainability, and engineering, they are committed to building long-term partnerships while working with major developers, housing associations and public sector partners.
The Role
We are seeking an experienced Engineering Manager (Civils/Structural) to take ownership of all engineering aspects of pre-development and live projects.
You’ll lead on drainage, flood risk, highways, foundations, retaining structures and structural proposals from land acquisition through to construction. This role requires someone confident in both hands-on civil design and in managing and critiquing the work of consultants.
It’s a fantastic opportunity to shape the engineering direction of projects, working closely with the Engineering Director, internal technical teams, consultants, and key stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
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Lead or support the due diligence process for potential land acquisitions.
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Oversee and deliver project engineering information to prepare sites for development.
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Review and advise on foul & surface water drainage, earthworks/retaining strategies, foundations and cut & fill for cost efficiency.
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Assist in consultant selection for planning and detailed design work.
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Procure and manage external consultant services (geotechnical, land surveys, etc.).
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Review infrastructure and structural tender/construction drawings for clarity and cost-effectiveness.
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Manage legislative frameworks (e.g. Water Industry Act, Highways Act, Section 38, Section 278, Approvals in Principle).
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Attend sites for inspections, advising on construction standards and defect rectification.
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Advise on highway layouts, retaining structures and foundation impacts in line with commercial requirements.
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Represent the business at meetings with Water Authorities, Planners, Highways Authorities, the Environment Agency and other stakeholders.
Skills, Experience & Background
Essential:
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Experience in residential development (developer or consultancy background).
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Proven knowledge of Engineering, Planning & Design processes.
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Ability to lead, delegate, and influence at all levels.
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Experience managing major infrastructure projects (500+ residential units).
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Strong stakeholder management and negotiation skills.
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Hands-on experience in civil design, especially:
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Drainage schemes
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Levels strategies
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Retaining walls
Desirable:
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Relevant degree in Civil/Structural Engineering.
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Chartered or working towards chartership with ICE or IStructE.
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Strong commercial awareness and the ability to recommend efficient solutions.
The Person
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Decisive, proactive and commercially minded.
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Excellent communicator with leadership and negotiation skills.
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Able to manage multiple projects and work to strict deadlines.
If this sounds like the role for you, Apply Now. Contact Mark at Up Front Recruitment for more information