Senior / principal mechanical engineer

Overview

At AtkinsRéalis, we're known for delivering high‑quality, innovative engineering solutions across a wide range of sectors. Our success is built on the diversity of our people—their expertise, perspectives and collaborative approach. You'll be joining an inclusive and supportive environment where ideas are encouraged, development is prioritised, and everyone's contribution is valued. We're passionate about engineering excellence, while maintaining a culture that supports flexibility, wellbeing and a healthy work–life balance. As a Senior / Principal Mechanical Engineer, you will lead the delivery of mechanical (building services) design across multidisciplinary projects, taking responsibility for technical quality, client engagement and project outcomes. You'll play a key role in strengthening client relationships, supporting project delivery and mentoring colleagues, while contributing to the continued growth and success of the building services team in Exeter.

Your role

• Lead mechanical design delivery across all project stages, from concept through to detailed design and construction support.
• Develop a clear understanding of client requirements, managing briefings and building strong stakeholder relationships.
• Prepare and review mechanical specifications, equipment schedules and technical deliverables.
• Carry out and oversee heating, cooling and ventilation calculations using industry‑standard tools (e.g. IES, Hevacomp).
• Use digital engineering tools, including Revit, to support coordinated and high‑quality BIM delivery.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and the Global Technology Centre (GTC) to enhance design quality and efficiency.
• Represent AtkinsRéalis in client, contractor and design team meetings with confidence and professionalism.
• Undertake site surveys and inspections, ensuring designs are delivered in accordance with intent.
• Manage project deliverables, programme milestones and contribute to budget awareness and control.
• Support coordination with other disciplines to ensure integrated and buildable solutions.
• Mentor and support the development of junior engineers and technicians.
• Contribute to team growth, continuous improvement and work‑winning activities.

About you

You will have:

• A degree in Building Services Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Chartered Engineer status (CIBSE, IMechE) or be working towards chartership.
• Experience in mechanical design within a consultancy or contractor design environment.
• Strong technical knowledge of building services systems and relevant standards.
• Experience using industry software such as IES, Hevacomp, NBS and Revit.
• Understanding of BIM and coordinated design workflows within multidisciplinary teams.
• Ability to lead packages of work and take ownership of project deliverables.
• Good commercial awareness, including understanding of budgets and project constraints.
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• A proactive and self‑motivated approach, with the ability to make decisions independently.
• Experience mentoring or supporting the development of others.
• CIBSE Low Carbon Consultant (LCC) or similar accreditation (desirable).

Rewards & benefits

Explore the rewards and benefits that help you thrive – at every stage of your life and your career. Enjoy competitive salaries, employee rewards and a brilliant range of benefits you can tailor to suit your own health, wellbeing, financial and lifestyle choices. Make the most of a myriad of opportunities for training and professional development to grow your skills and expertise. And combine our hybrid working culture and flexible holiday allowances to balance a great job and fulfilling personal life.

Be rewarded. Find out more.

About AtkinsRéalis

We're AtkinsRéalis, a world-class engineering services and nuclear organization. We connect people, data and technology to transform the world\'s infrastructure and energy systems. Together, with our industry partners and clients, and our global team of consultants, designers, engineers and project managers, we can change the world. We\'re committed to leading our clients across our various end markets to engineer a better future for our planet and its people.

Find out more.

Additional information

Security clearance

This role may require security clearance and offers of employment will be dependent on obtaining the relevant level of clearance. If this is necessary, it will be discussed with you at interview. The vetting process is delivered by United Kingdom Security Vetting (UKSV) and may require candidates to provide proof of residency in the UK of 5 years or longer. If applying to this role please do not make reference to (in conversation) or include in your application or CV, details of any current or previously held security clearance.

We are committed to creating a culture where everyone feels that they belong - a place where we can all be ourselves, thrive and develop to be the best we can be. So, we offer a range of family friendly, inclusive employment policies, flexible working arrangements and employee resource groups to support all employees. As an Equal Opportunities Employer, we value applications from all backgrounds, cultures and ability. As a Disability Confident Leader, we are committed to offering an interview to all applicants who have a disability and meet the essential criteria. If you would like to be considered under this commitment, please let us know at the application stage.

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