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Date Added: Wed 18/03/2026

Principal Engineer (Structures)

Dorset, UK
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Company: HAYS SPECIALIST RECRUITMENT LIMITED

Job Type: Permanent, FullTime

Salary: £75.00 - £85.00 per hour

The role

An established public-sector infrastructure organisation is seeking an experienced Principal Engineer (Structures) to lead the delivery of complex highway and bridge engineering schemes. This is a senior technical and leadership role responsible for both design assurance and the effective management of a multi-disciplinary engineering team.

You will take a lead role in the conception, analysis and design of complex highway structures, ensuring works are delivered in line with current legislation, safety standards, budgetary controls and wider organisational objectives.

Key responsibilities

  • Lead the analysis, design and specification of complex highway and bridge structures
  • Produce and review contract documentation across multiple forms of contract
  • Manage, prioritise and mentor a team of engineers and technicians to deliver capital programmes efficiently
  • Lead and oversee inspections of highway structures in accordance with relevant standards and safety requirements
  • Liaise closely with contractors, statutory undertakers and external stakeholders throughout the design and delivery process
  • Lead on the development of works programmes, fee estimates and cost control to ensure projects remain within approved budgets
  • Provide site support where required, reviewing method statements and ensuring compliance with CDM and health & safety regulations
  • Make technical and commercial decisions affecting structural compliance, programme and cost

About you

  • Degree qualified (RQF Level 6-7 or equivalent) in Civil or Structural Engineering
  • Chartered Engineer (ICE or IStructE)
  • Extensive experience in the design and maintenance of bridges and highway structures
  • Strong working knowledge of Eurocodes, British Standards and DMRB
  • Proven experience using the Inspection Manual for Highway Structures
  • Sound understanding of duties under CDM 2015 Regulations
  • Demonstrable experience supervising and assuring the work of other engineers
  • Confident decision-maker with strong stakeholder management skills

What's on offer

  • Hybrid working arrangement
  • Opportunity to lead high-profile, technically complex infrastructure schemes
  • Collaborative working environment with strong professional standards

What you need to do now

If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.

Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk

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