Principal Engineer (Geotechnical) – [BAU]
National Highways is offering an exciting opportunity for a Principal Engineering Geologist or Geotechnical Engineer to join our South West Operations Geotechnical team. The role is a hybrid position based in Bristol or Exeter.
About The Job
You will work alongside the Geotechnical Engineering Team Manager to lead, inspire, and support a skilled team of engineers. Together you’ll tackle complex geotechnical risks, set priorities, and develop innovative early solutions for a wide range of schemes, from earthworks and rock slopes to their interactions with drainage, structures, and other highway assets. You’ll provide specialist expertise that underpins safe, resilient, and future‑proof infrastructure and influence how we advance geotechnical asset management, ensuring schemes meet the highest standards while driving continual improvement across the sector.
Responsibilities
* Provide specialist technical expertise to identify risks and shape early solutions for renewals and improvement schemes, in line with agreed methodologies considering new techniques, materials, buildability and costs;
* Develop asset‑specific management plans that support decisions aligned with policy and standards while delivering value for money and supporting business goals;
* Identify, prioritise, and manage geotechnical asset needs in line with governance requirements (e.g. DMRB: CS641 and CD622) and to achieve business objectives;
* Commission and oversee survey works to support asset improvements and renewals, reviewing and approving technical briefs, reports, specifications, drawings, and supporting information;
* Champion the use of high‑quality asset data by monitoring performance, driving innovation in data management, and guiding regional colleagues to maintain standards and integrity.
About You
* Degree, Masters, or Higher National Diploma/Certificate in a relevant discipline, or equivalent experience;
* Extensive, relevant, and demonstrable experience in ground engineering and infrastructure works with Chartered or Incorporated Membership of the Geological Society, ICE, or equivalent professional body;
* Demonstrable knowledge across relevant geotechnical standards, asset policies and strategies and risk management;
* Full driving licence with no more than 3 points.
Seniority Level
Mid‑Senior level
Employment Type
Full‑time, Hybrid
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