Principal Instrument Engineer
Contract - outside of scope of IR35
Location: Manchester
Duration: 6 months+
We’re supporting the mobilisation of a major FEED phase for a cutting-edge Hydrogen project and are looking for an experienced Principal Instrument Engineer to join a multidisciplinary engineering team.
This is a client-facing role requiring deep expertise in control and instrumentation (C&I) for process plant environments. You’ll play a key role in delivering high-quality engineering solutions, ensuring compliance with standards, and maintaining strong client engagement throughout the project lifecycle.
The Role
1. Lead C&I engineering activities across a major FEED project, providing technical direction and discipline expertise
2. Prepare, check, and approve engineering deliverables such as specifications, equipment requisitions, scopes of work, and installation drawings
3. Contribute to the development of C&I safety cases and cybersecurity documentation
4. Review supplier quotations and complete technical bid evaluations
5. Ensure full compliance with UK legislation and international standards, including ATEX/DSEAR requirements
6. Support verification and validation activities throughout the design lifecycle
7. Engage with clients, vendors, and internal teams to ensure alignment and successful project delivery
8. Allocate tasks where appropriate and support junior engineers with technical guidance
What You’ll Bring
9. Degree in Electronic, Electrical, or Control Engineering (apprenticeship backgrounds will be considered)
10. Chartered or Incorporated Engineer status (or working toward it) with a recognised engineering institution
11. Strong track record in instrumentation engineering on process plant projects, ideally including Hydrogen, Oil & Gas, or energy transition sectors
12. In-depth understanding of applicable UK legislation and instrument installation in hazardous areas
13. Experience working across FEED and EPC phases, with the ability to independently manage complex engineering packages
14. Clear communication skills and confidence working in a client-facing environment
This contract offers the chance to contribute to a landmark energy project at the forefront of the hydrogen economy. If you’re a delivery-focused Principal Instrument Engineer ready to lead and influence technical direction, we’d like to hear from you.