Principal Mechanical Engineer Location: Rickmansworth £60,000 - £73,000 p.a. Permanent, Hybrid A water sector leading solutions provider is seeking to appoint a Principal Mechanical Engineer to join their expanding Engineering team. This Principal Mechanical Engineer role, based in the Thames Water region and reporting to the Regional Discipline Lead (Mechanical), offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a diverse and challenging programme of water and wastewater schemes. The Principal Mechanical Engineer role offers flexible hybrid working arrangements and a dynamic and supportive environment focused on delivering practical, sustainable engineering outcomes. This role is to work on the AMP8 framework as part of their joint venture. Key Responsibilities: Principal Mechanical Engineer Lead the development of complex mechanical designs that are cost-effective, compliant with specifications, and practical for construction and commissioning. Produce and review all mechanical design deliverables, including specifications, schedules, drawings, and calculations. Collaborate with other disciplines to develop integrated 3D site and plant models. Promote the use of standardised designs and engineering best practices. Deliver project design outputs on time and within budget. Coordinate design activities across all engineering disciplines. Engage with construction teams and supply chain partners to ensure design solutions are buildable and efficient. Support the continuous improvement of engineering procedures and processes. Maintain accurate records and ensure documentation is updated throughout the project lifecycle. Facilitate and lead Operability and Maintenance workshops in collaboration with the client. Support the professional development of junior staff. Promote a safe working environment and ensure designs are compliant with CDM 2015 and all relevant health and safety regulations. Candidate Criteria: Principal Mechanical Engineer Degree-qualified in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline. Chartered or working towards chartered status with a recognised professional institution. Substantial experience in mechanical engineering within the water or wastewater sector. In-depth understanding of water and sewage treatment processes and associated mechanical systems. Experience leading technical teams and overseeing the delivery of mechanical design packages. Strong understanding of relevant industry standards and regulatory requirements (e.g., BS, WIMES, PUWER, LOLER, PSSR, Reg31, CDM 2015). Proficiency in producing and reviewing complex technical documents and models. Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills. Strong computer literacy. Full UK driving licence. Company Information At First Recruitment Group we understand just how important it is to secure the right people. That is why our Recruitment Consultants always take the time to understand requirements in detail and offer sound advice to both clients and candidates. We actively recruit at all levels and this is a superb opportunity for a Principal Mechanical Engineer looking for new employment. As part of putting people first, we strive to be an equal opportunities employer and we are always looking to increase the diversity of our workforce, working closely with our clients to ensure everyone is included