Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design of innovative geotechnical and structural projects, focusing on foundations and ground stability.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking engineering firm committed to excellence and innovation in construction.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, opportunities for remote work, and access to cutting-edge technology.
- Why this job: Be part of impactful projects while mentoring the next generation of engineers in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in Civil or Structural Engineering; Chartered Engineer status preferred.
- Other info: Experience with NEC4 and JCT contracts is a plus; strong leadership skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced and technically strong Principal Design Engineer (Ground Specialist) to lead the development and delivery of both temporary and permanent works designs. This role plays a critical part in ensuring engineering excellence across complex geotechnical and structural projects, with a focus on foundations, ground stability, and shoring systems. You will supervise junior staff, manage external support, and collaborate closely with internal teams, clients, and consultancies, while driving innovation through BIM and digital technologies.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop temporary and permanent works designs including shoring, foundations, and ground stability.
- Review and approve engineering calculations, drawings, and technical documents.
- Supervise and mentor junior engineers and manage third-party design input.
- Ensure compliance with QHSE standards, company procedures, and industry regulations.
- Build and maintain strong working relationships with clients and project stakeholders.
- Promote and integrate BIM and digital modelling tools into design processes.
- Support continual improvement initiatives and innovation in design practices.
- Lead or participate in contract discussions with awareness of NEC4 and JCT frameworks.
Skills & Experience Required
- Proven expertise in geotechnical design and interpreting ground information.
- Strong experience in temporary works (e.g., piling, soil retention, ground stability).
- Commercial awareness, especially with NEC4 and JCT contracts.
- Excellent leadership, mentoring, and communication skills.
- In-depth knowledge of H&S, construction methods, plant, and environmental legislation.
- Proficient in Microsoft 365, AutoCAD, Civils 3D, Revit, and BIM tools.
Qualifications (Desirable)
- Degree in Civil or Structural Engineering.
- Chartered Engineer (ICE or equivalent).
- CSCS Card holder.
- Certified Temporary Works Coordinator.
If you feel that you have the skills and experience required in this advertisement to be a Principal Design Engineer, submit your CV including an outline of your experience as a Principal Design Engineer. It is always a good idea to include a covering letter outlining your experience as a Principal Design Engineer with your application as this will enhance your chances of selection and improve your prospects of landing the Principal Design Engineer role you desire.
Principal Design Engineer employer: ACS Performance
Contact Detail:
ACS Performance Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Design Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the geotechnical and structural engineering fields. Attend industry events, webinars, or local meetups to connect with potential colleagues and clients who can provide insights into the role and company culture.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest BIM and digital modelling tools. Since this role emphasises innovation through technology, showcasing your proficiency in these areas during discussions can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with NEC4 and JCT contracts in detail. Understanding these frameworks will demonstrate your commercial awareness and ability to navigate contract discussions effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Highlight your leadership and mentoring experiences in previous roles. As a Principal Design Engineer, you'll be supervising junior staff, so sharing specific examples of how you've successfully guided others can strengthen your candidacy.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Design Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in geotechnical design, temporary works, and any relevant projects you've worked on. Use specific examples that demonstrate your expertise in foundations, ground stability, and shoring systems.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, outline your experience as a Principal Design Engineer, focusing on your leadership skills and ability to mentor junior engineers. Mention your familiarity with NEC4 and JCT contracts, and how you integrate BIM and digital technologies into your work.
Showcase Relevant Skills: Highlight your proficiency in software tools like AutoCAD, Civils 3D, Revit, and Microsoft 365. Make sure to mention any certifications you hold, such as Chartered Engineer status or Temporary Works Coordinator certification.
Emphasise Compliance and Safety: Discuss your knowledge of QHSE standards and industry regulations in your application. This shows that you are not only technically skilled but also committed to maintaining high safety and quality standards in your work.
How to prepare for a job interview at ACS Performance
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your experience in geotechnical design and temporary works. Highlight specific projects where you've successfully implemented designs for foundations, ground stability, or shoring systems.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Since the role involves supervising junior staff, be ready to share examples of how you've mentored others in previous positions. Discuss your approach to leadership and how you foster collaboration within teams.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Relevant Regulations
Understand the NEC4 and JCT frameworks as well as QHSE standards. Be prepared to discuss how you ensure compliance in your work and how this impacts project delivery.
✨Emphasise Innovation and Digital Tools
Talk about your experience with BIM and digital modelling tools. Share how you've integrated these technologies into your design processes to drive innovation and improve efficiency.
