Senior/Principal Mechanical Engineer - Building Services
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced Senior/Principal Mechanical Engineer to join and help lead our Building Services team. You will take technical leadership on the design and delivery of innovative MEP solutions across a diverse range of construction projects, from concept through to completion. This is an excellent opportunity to shape project outcomes, mentor junior engineers, and be a key part of our collaborative, multidisciplinary team where communication and bespoke solutions are at the heart of everything we do.
This role is based at our main office, with the possibility of working from our Exeter office.
About Us
We are a multidisciplinary construction consultancy that takes the leg work out of construction projects. With almost ten years of trusted service, we provide in-house expertise across construction and development services. Our Director-led approach ensures exceptional quality of service, and our success is built on relationships - your project is as important to us as it is to you.
We listen, question and challenge, not simply following normal conventions but striving to truly understand your aspirations. Every solution is tailored to your needs and totally bespoke.
Key Responsibilities
Lead the design of complex mechanical building services systems including HVAC, domestic water services, and above ground drainage
Take technical ownership of projects from feasibility through to completion, ensuring design excellence and project delivery
Prepare and oversee detailed MEP design drawings, specifications, and technical reports using 3D BIM and CAD
Develop innovative sustainable and energy-efficient solutions that consider maintenance, life cycle, running costs, carbon emissions and end user experience
Lead on renewable energy systems and large-scale infrastructure projects
Undertake and review energy modelling, overheating risk assessments, and engineering studies
Ensure designs comply with current building regulations and provide technical expertise on complex compliance matters
Lead and collaborate with our in-house multidisciplinary team
Provide technical leadership and construction site support throughout the build phase
Chair design team meetings, site visits, and client meetings, representing the mechanical engineering discipline
Review contractor submissions, technical submittals, and value engineering proposals
Manage and build strong relationships with clients, contractors, and consultants at a senior level
Lead fee proposal preparation and project budget management
Mentor and develop junior engineers, providing technical guidance and professional development support
Contribute to business development activities and help win new work
Essential Requirements
BEng or MEng degree in Mechanical Engineering, Building Services Engineering, or related discipline
Chartered Engineer (CEng) status with IMechE, CIBSE, or IET
Minimum 8-10 years of post-graduate experience in building services engineering consultancy
Proven track record of leading complex MEP projects from concept to completion
Strong technical understanding of mechanical building services design principles
Advanced proficiency in 3D BIM platforms (Revit MEP or similar) and CAD software
Extensive knowledge of energy modelling software and techniques
Comprehensive understanding of building regulations, British Standards, and CIBSE best practice guidance
Deep familiarity with sustainable design principles, renewable energy systems, and low carbon technologies
Excellent communication, presentation and client-facing skills
Demonstrated leadership abilities with experience managing project teams and mentoring junior staff
Strong commercial awareness and experience managing project budgets and fee proposals
Relationship-focused with proven ability to win and retain clients
Experience working across diverse sectors such as healthcare, public buildings, workplace, residential, MOD, infrastructure, industrial, retail, or sports stadia
Proven track record of delivering projects on programme and within budget
Desirable
Experience with medical gas services design
Knowledge of HV/LV systems, emergency lighting, and fire detection systems
Experience leading BIM Level 2 workflows
Experience with large-scale infrastructure and utilities projects
Active involvement in professional institutions such as CIBSE or IMechE
What We Offer
Competitive senior-level salary commensurate with experience
Opportunity to take technical leadership and shape the direction of our Building Services team
Exposure to diverse and challenging projects across multiple sectors
Director-led mentorship and collaborative working environment
Clear career progression pathways with potential for associate/director roles
Work-life balance with flexibility
The chance to be part of a company that leverages commercial success to lead in training tomorrow's construction professionals
Involvement in strategic business development and growth opportunities