Principal Structural Engineer

Location: Manchester
Type: [Full-Time
Salary: 70-75k

Purpose of the Role

We are seeking an experienced Principal Structural Engineer to lead the delivery of high-quality, safe, and innovative structural designs across regulated industries. You'll be responsible for the technical integrity of projects, supporting both our clients and internal teams with expert guidance, leadership, and direction.

Key Responsibilities

Ensure design teams deliver outputs that meet safety, quality, and technical standards

Approve design deliverables, including DRAs, technical reports, and specifications

Identify effective design solutions through site visits and project scoping, and communicate these clearly to stakeholders

Lead, mentor, and develop engineers, CAD technicians, and graduates

Ensure compliance with all relevant technical, industry, and water company standards

Manage and document design changes within formal processes

Estimate resource and time requirements for structural design packages

Represent the team in ALM, KM, and similar technical review meetings

Interpret and brief teams on changes in standards, regulations, and procedures

Act as the Professional Head of Discipline and/or Responsible Engineer (CRE) on key projects

Drive technical excellence and continuous improvement across all project phases

Essential Qualifications & Experience

Minimum 10 years' structural design experience at senior or principal level

Extensive experience in at least one of the following sectors:

Rail

Water

Oil & Gas

Nuclear

Highways

Bridges

Degree (or HND) in Structural or Civil Engineering

Proficient in IT and engineering design tools

Chartered Engineer (CEng or equivalent)

Preferred Qualifications & Experience

Design experience within regulated water and/or rail industries

Strong understanding of construction methods and materials

Familiarity with engineering drawing practices and standards

Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle

Key Skills & Competencies

Strong technical leadership and engineering knowledge

Clear, confident communication (written and verbal)

Results-driven and solution-focused

Committed to personal and team development

Proactive in problem solving and decision-making

Collaborative and confident under pressure

Benefits

Annual Leave: 23 days + 8 public/bank holidays

Additional holiday entitlement after 2 years' service (up to 5 extra days)

Option to purchase up to 5 additional days per year

Pension Scheme:

4% employee contribution (after tax)

1% tax relief on contributions

4% employer contribution

Total contribution: 9%

Wellbeing & Lifestyle:

Fresh fruit provided in the office

Free on-site gym

Access to Circular Lifestyle Benefits platform

Join Us

If you're ready to take the lead in shaping the future of structural engineering within regulated sectors, apply today and be part of a team that values innovation, technical excellence, and continuous improvement