Principal Bridge/Structural Engineer – Manchester, UK
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A leading civil and structural engineering consultancy is seeking a chartered Principal Bridge/Structural Engineer with extensive experience in bridges, heavy civils, and large-scale concrete/steel structures for a permanent position in their Manchester office.
This is a high-profile role offering the opportunity to lead challenging infrastructure projects, contribute to business growth, and shape the future of a dynamic structural engineering team.
About the Role
As a Principal Bridge/Structural Engineer, you will:
* Lead and deliver complex bridge and infrastructure projects, including new construction, major maintenance, retaining walls, flood defence schemes, and other heavy civil works.
* Work across superstructure, substructure, and articulation elements from early-stage feasibility, surveys, and scheme design through to detailed design and project delivery.
* Apply advanced modelling and structural analysis to resolve complex engineering challenges.
* Manage project budgets, timelines, teams, and client relationships.
* Mentor and develop junior engineers, supporting them toward chartership.
* Contribute to business development, supporting bids and client growth.
* Represent the designer on-site and act as signatory for approvals.
Key Responsibilities
* Design and manage bridges, heavy civil structures, and large-scale concrete/steel works.
* Undertake inspections, scoping, optioneering, and feasibility studies.
* Prepare, review, and approve calculations, drawings, specifications, contract documents, and reports.
* Liaise with clients, contractors, authorities, and multidisciplinary teams.
* Lead, mentor, and develop project teams.
* Support business growth and client engagement strategies.
Essential Requirements
* Chartered Engineer (CEng) – ICE, IStructE, or equivalent.
* 7–10+ years post-graduate experience in bridge or structural engineering.
* Proven experience delivering bridges, heavy civils, or large-scale concrete/steel structures.
* Proficiency in structural analysis and modelling software (e.g., LUSAS, STAAD Pro, or similar).
* Strong technical knowledge of UK bridge and civil engineering standards.
* Experience managing projects, budgets, and multidisciplinary teams.
* Excellent communication, attention to detail, and leadership skills.
Desirable
* Experience in multidisciplinary projects (highways, rail, water, geotechnics).
* Experience in flood defence, retaining walls, or temporary works.
* Proven track record in business development and client relationship management.
* Mentoring and leadership experience guiding junior engineers toward chartership.
Work Environment & Benefits
* Location: Manchester (Hybrid working available, minimum 2–3 days in office).
* Competitive salary and benefits package, including pension contributions, professional memberships, and modern office facilities.
* Career progression opportunities to senior leadership roles.
* Exposure to high-profile, high-impact infrastructure projects across the UK.
ELB Recruit are representing a client and are actively seeking a Principal Bridge/Structural Engineer to lead and grow a team delivering high-profile infrastructure projects in Manchester.