Job Description
Principal Engineer – Roads, Carlisle
Role Summary
You will lead the day‑to‑day technical delivery of highway consultancy services throughout the project life‑cycle—from feasibility and concept design to detailed design and construction. This client‑facing role requires a proven track record of delivering schemes in the local or national transport arena.
Responsibilities
- Manage projects to ensure coordination of multidisciplinary inputs on projects of varying scale and complexity.
- Build trusted client relationships, proactively manage expectations and advise comprehensively.
- Lead technical design and review work.
- Support staff to maximise personal contribution to project and team goals.
- Prepare fee proposals and manage budgets for individual projects.
- Develop and deliver discrete and overall project solutions.
- Lead and manage other staff in the production of design drawings, construction details, specifications, bills of quantities and tender packages.
- Ensure compliance with Health & Safety, Environmental legislation and in‑house quality assurance standards/processes.
- Coordinate team resources, set up teams and allocate people to tasks.
Qualifications & Experience
- Relevant knowledge and experience of highway design and/or drainage systems through all project stages; expertise in road geometry, junctions, active travel, drainage, restraint systems and road markings is advantageous.
- Demonstrated experience leading single or multiple design disciplines on relevant projects.
- Experience with contract document preparation or administration using Public Works Contracts.
- Proficiency in design software (Autodesk Civil 3D, Bentley OpenRoads Designer, InfoDrainage, PDS, etc.).
- Capability to manage change and communicate impacts on programme, cost and quality.
- Excellent communication, client‑ and stakeholder‑management and interpersonal skills.
- Chartered Civil Engineer or Incorporated Engineer with extensive post‑professional qualification experience.
- Strong understanding of design codes (Design Manual for Roads & Bridges, Manual for Streets, TSRGD, local authority guidance) and preparation of contract drawings.
- Experience complying with Designers’ Duties under CDM regulations.
Benefits
- Hybrid working policy – work from home two days a week with modern office collaboration.
- Work‑life balance initiatives (WSP My Hour, part‑time & flexible arrangements, additional leave options).
- Health & Well‑being support (Thrive programme, Virtual GP, gym membership flex, menopause support).
- Inclusive & diverse workplace culture with employee resource groups.
EEO Statement
Here at WSP we positively encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy or maternity/paternity. As a Disability Confident leader, we will interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria, please let us know if you require any workplace adjustments in support of your application.
