Principal Mechanical Design Engineer

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced Principal Mechanical Engineer to join a multidisciplinary design team working on high-impact water and wastewater projects. You will focus on outline design, with a workload comprising roughly 70% design, 20% contracts/framework support, and 10% site-based problem-solving.

With the AMP8 period ahead, our client’s mechanical engineering team of 15 is expected to double—offering major career growth potential.

Our client is a leading provider of critical infrastructure services, dedicated to delivering sustainable and innovative water treatment solutions. They operate at the forefront of environmental engineering and are committed to excellence, flexibility, and employee development.

• Lead the development of sustainable and innovative outline designs for water and wastewater infrastructure.
• Collaborate closely with multi-disciplinary teams to deliver integrated engineering solutions.
• Provide technical guidance, review design specifications, and ensure compliance with industry standards.
• Champion continuous improvement and integrate cutting-edge digital design tools.
• Manage stakeholder relationships and engage with the supply chain to drive value and innovation.
• Mentor junior engineers and support the development of team capabilities.
• Attend occasional site visits to troubleshoot and resolve engineering challenges on the ground.

• MSc/MEng in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
• Chartered or Incorporated Engineer status (IET or equivalent).
• Minimum 8 years of relevant industry experience—preferably with water, oil & gas, petrochemical, or other transferrable sectors.
• Strong knowledge of P&IDs and 3D design environments.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and project delivery skills.
• A full UK driving licence for site visits.

• Competitive salary.
• Performance-related bonus.
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays.
• Health Cash Plan and Life Assurance (4x salary).
• Salary sacrifice electric vehicle scheme (after 6 months).
• Cycle to Work scheme and free parking.
• Digital GP access and fully funded eye tests.
• Two paid volunteering days per year.
• Flexible and remote working options.
• Discounts with over 800 high-street retailers.
• Vibrant location with excellent transport links and coastline lifestyle benefits.

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. A valid UK driving licence is required due to the nature of site work.

With AMP8 expansion on the horizon, you will be joining a growing mechanical team poised for transformation. Our client actively supports career progression, specialisation in technical domains, and leadership development to help you become a recognised national expert.