Overview
We’re supporting a growing civil engineering team in their search for an experienced Principal Engineer. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys leading complex civil engineering projects, guiding engineers, and delivering high-quality highways, drainage, and infrastructure design.
The position offers long-term stability, a strong project pipeline, and progression opportunities within a supportive, well-structured civil engineering environment.
The Role
As a Principal Civil Engineer, you will take ownership of a wide portfolio of infrastructure, highways, drainage, public realm, and multi-sector developments. You’ll lead projects from concept through detailed design, work closely with clients and stakeholders, and ensure technical excellence across the civil engineering team.
This is a hands-on, leadership-focused role with technical responsibility and the autonomy to shape project delivery.
Key Responsibilities
Lead and manage civil engineering projects from feasibility to completion
Produce and review detailed designs for highways, junctions, drainage, and infrastructure
Oversee Section S278, S38, and 104 works and ensure compliance with standards
Prepare drainage strategies, SuDS reports, and flood risk assessments
Provide technical leadership to civil engineers and technicians
Attend and represent the team at client, stakeholder, and design meetings
Prepare fee proposals, project programmes, and commercial documentation
Ensure all work aligns with DMRB, local authority standards, and national planning frameworks (NPPF, PPG, Water Framework, etc.)
Required Experience
Extensive background in civil engineering (ideally 8+ years)
Strong technical expertise across highways, drainage, SuDS, FRA, and public realm design
Skilled user of AutoCAD, Civils 3D, MicroDrainage/Flow, and Vehicle Tracking
Comfortable advising clients, leading meetings, and representing the business externally
Proven experience preparing fee proposals and managing project budgets
Excellent communication and leadership skills
Chartered (ICE/CIHT/CIWEM) or actively working towards Chartership
Proficient with drainage modelling techniques, with experience using Causeway Flow, AutoCAD, Civils 3D (including earthworks modelling) and GIS.
Understanding of Flood Risk Activity Permitting and the Land Drainage Consent process (advantageous but not essential).
Experience in construction-phase site monitoring, supervision and contract management, with the ability to prepare and review fee proposals and bids, support financial management and project control, and work confidently with different contract types and procurement routes.
Why Join?
25 days holiday + BH + birthday + Christmas closure
Annual bonus + regular social events
Positive, relaxed office culture with strong team values
Long-term career stability and investment in development
If you’re a Principal Engineer looking to join a respected engineering and manufacturing company with strong values and long-term growth plans, apply today with your latest CV