Senior Design Engineer
Location: Welwyn Garden City, AL7 3BQ
Permanent, Full Time
The Senior Design Engineer leads the development, coordination, and delivery of highway maintenance & improvement schemes from early contractor involvement (ECI) through mobilisation and construction. This role combines engineering design, project management, statutory compliance, and stakeholder coordination to ensure schemes are delivered safely, efficiently, and to the required technical standards and in accordance with Ringway Policies and Vinci principles.
The position provides technical leadership within the team and supports the continuous improvement of design and delivery processes across the service.
Key Responsibilities
Project Management & Scheme Delivery
Lead the planning, coordination, and delivery of highway projects ranging from small-scale works to multi‑million‑pound schemes.
Manage the full project lifecycle from inception through ECI, design, construction planning, delivery, and handover.
Prepare and maintain project programmes, cost forecasts, risks, and progress reports.
Mobilise and manage subcontractors, suppliers, and internal delivery teams, ensuring clear briefs and safe working practices.
Oversee procurement of materials, plant, and specialist services required for scheme delivery.
Ensure site setups, TM layouts, and working methods are fully compliant and appropriately planned.
Engineering Design & Technical Leadership
Produce and review engineering designs, drawings, and technical documents for highway schemes.
Ensure designs meet all relevant standards including DMRB, the Red Book (Safety at Street Works and Road Works), TSRGD, local authority requirements, and Hertfordshire-specific highway standards.
Request and interpret Statutory Undertakers' (STATS) information and incorporate constraints into design proposals.
Provide technical guidance to design engineers and support junior staff through mentoring and knowledge sharing.
Champion innovation, best practice, and buildability within the design process.
Regulatory, Safety & Compliance
Ensure all works comply with HASAWA, CDM Regulations, TSRGD, the Red Book, and other applicable legislation.
Prepare and manage CDM documentation such as Construction Phase Plans, risk registers, and Safe Systems of Work (RAMS).
Lead on permit applications, TTRO/TTRN submissions, and coordination with Hertfordshire Highways and other statutory bodies.
Promote a strong health, safety and environmental culture across all project activities.
Stakeholder Engagement & Communication
Act as the primary point of contact for internal teams, clients, local authorities, suppliers, and the public where required.
Lead and/or attend ECI discussions to refine scope, assess constraints, validate feasibility, and resolve issues early in the project.
Communicate technical information clearly to both technical and non‑technical audiences.
Work collaboratively with local authority, utility companies, planners, road safety officers, and senior management to ensure smooth project progression.
Financial & Commercial Responsibilities
Assist in preparing cost estimates and budget forecasts.
Monitor project expenditure, value engineering opportunities, and financial risks.
Ensure variations, compensation events, and payment applications are completed in accordance with contract requirements.
Skills, Experience & Qualifications
Essential
Strong experience in highway engineering, scheme delivery, or infrastructure project management.
Good knowledge of Schedule of Rates and preparation of Target Estimates.
Proven ability to manage multiple projects concurrently, including complex or high-value schemes.
Understanding of DMRB, TSRGD, Red Book, CDM Regulations, HASAWA, Temporary Works, and local highway authority requirements.
Ability to interpret STATS plans and integrate utility constraints into design and construction planning.
Excellent communication, organisation, and problem-solving skills.
Proficient in design software such as AutoCAD and standard MS Office/project management tools.
Degree (or equivalent) in Civil Engineering or related field.
Full UK driving licence.
Desirable
Experience working directly with Hertfordshire County Council or other Local Authorities.
Supervisory or mentoring experience.
Knowledge of NEC contracts or similar construction contract forms.
Behavioural Competencies
Proactive leadership and ownership of tasks.
High attention to detail and commitment to technical quality.
Strong safety-first mindset.
Ability to work under pressure and adapt quickly to changes.
Commitment to continuous professional development and industry best practice.