Role: Civil Engineering Lead
Inside IR35 contract
Location: South East UK (office based)
Duration - one year renewable contract - (anticipated 2 year + duration)
Key experience - Client side / operator experience managing design scopes of engineering contractor
Start date: Immediate
We are recruiting for an experienced Lead Civil Engineer to join a client-side Project Management Team (PMT) supporting a major integrated refining and petrochemical development of over $15bn.
This is a high-profile pre-FEED role where you will act on behalf of the project owner, ensuring safe, efficient, and cost-effective design delivery by the engineering contractor.
Engineering Leadership & Strategy
* Provide civil engineering leadership aligned with project objectives and strategies
* Support risk-based decision-making and ensure risks are clearly understood and communicated
* Collaborate with project management and contractor teams to refine technical concepts
Design Optimization & Value Improvement
* Drive capital efficiency and value improvement initiatives
* Recommend and evaluate design alternatives to optimize cost and schedule
* Ensure appropriate qualification and assessment of new technologies
Standards & Technical Governance
* Own and develop engineering standards, specifications, and design philosophies
* Ensure contractor compliance with project and industry standards
* Contribute to technical definition and FEL (Front-End Loading) maturity
Contractor Oversight & Deliverables
* Provide oversight of contractor design, deliverables, and technical outputs
* Review engineering documents (calculations, drawings, models, specifications)
* Participate in technical evaluations for FEED/EPC contracts
Experience & Qualifications
* 15+ years of relevant civil/structural engineering experience
* Strong background in onshore downstream, refining, or chemical facilities
* Experience across both operator (owner) and contractor environments
* Proven expertise in:
* Engineering standards and design philosophies
* Risk-based technical decision-making
* Large-scale modular project execution
* Familiarity with:
* Heavy oil upgrading, hydroprocessing, sour gas, ethylene, or utilities
* Experience with Middle East projects is advantageous
Key Competencies
* Strong technical leadership and problem-solving skills
* Ability to manage ambiguity and complex engineering challenges
* Excellent communication, collaboration, and stakeholder engagement
* Experience working in multicultural and JV environments