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- Tasks: Lead and deliver innovative drainage designs for major infrastructure projects.
- Company: Join a dynamic multidisciplinary consultancy expanding its Water Services team in Glasgow.
- Benefits: Enjoy career development support, leadership opportunities, and a collaborative work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on vital projects while mentoring a growing team in a supportive culture.
- Qualifications: Chartered or near-chartered engineer with experience in infrastructure drainage and relevant software skills.
- Other info: Diverse projects with top clients like National Grid and SSE; equal opportunity employer.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
Are you looking for something beyond residential drainage design? This role offers the chance to lead complex, infrastructure-focused drainage projects across energy, transport, and major civils sectors. An established multidisciplinary consultancy is expanding its Water Services team and looking for a Principal-level Drainage Engineer or Technical Manager to help grow the drainage capability from Glasgow. This is a genuine opportunity to lead delivery, mentor a growing team, and take ownership of key client relationships.
The Role:
- Lead and deliver drainage design for infrastructure projects (not housing)
- Work across sectors including energy (hydro, electrification), transport (roads, rail), and utilities
- Help shape and grow a drainage team currently 3-strong, with plans to double
- Collaborate with internal civils, water, and structural teams on integrated project delivery
What’s Needed:
- Principal or experienced Senior Engineer ready to step up
- Proven experience in infrastructure drainage (e.g. Network Rail, highways, power)
- Skilled in MicroDrainage, InfoDrainage, and/or Causeway Flow
- Chartered (or near) with a hands-on, technically strong approach
Clients include: National Grid, SSE, Scottish Power, and local authorities. Projects range from flood risk and reservoir assessments to major roads and renewable energy schemes. You’ll be supported to develop the service line and your own career, with a clear path to further leadership and the autonomy to shape your role. If you’re looking for a role with technical variety, leadership opportunity, and the chance to make a tangible impact, this could be a great fit.
Principal Drainage Engineer employer: James Gray Recruitment
Contact Detail:
James Gray Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Drainage Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the civil and structural engineering sectors, especially those involved in drainage projects. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with potential colleagues and clients, which can help you gain insights into the role and the company culture.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and technologies in drainage design, particularly those related to infrastructure projects. Being knowledgeable about tools like MicroDrainage and InfoDrainage will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your commitment to staying current in the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership experience and how you've successfully mentored teams in the past. Highlight specific examples where you've led projects or initiatives that align with the responsibilities of this role, as this will show your readiness to take on a Principal position.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the key clients mentioned in the job description, such as National Grid and SSE. Understanding their projects and challenges will allow you to tailor your discussions during interviews, showcasing how your skills and experiences can directly benefit their operations.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Drainage Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in infrastructure drainage projects, particularly in sectors like energy and transport. Emphasise your skills in MicroDrainage, InfoDrainage, and Causeway Flow, as well as any leadership roles you've held.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for drainage engineering and your desire to lead a team. Mention specific projects or experiences that align with the role's requirements and express your enthusiasm for contributing to the consultancy's growth.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, focus on your proven experience in infrastructure drainage, especially with clients like National Grid or local authorities. Provide examples of how you've successfully delivered complex projects and mentored team members.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Clearly outline your technical skills related to drainage design and project delivery. Include any relevant certifications or chartered status, and be prepared to discuss how these skills will benefit the consultancy in your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at James Gray Recruitment
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
As a Principal Drainage Engineer, it's crucial to demonstrate your technical knowledge in infrastructure drainage. Be prepared to discuss your experience with MicroDrainage, InfoDrainage, and Causeway Flow, and provide examples of how you've successfully applied these tools in past projects.
✨Highlight Leadership Experience
This role involves mentoring a growing team, so be ready to share your leadership experiences. Discuss how you've led teams in previous roles, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them to achieve project goals.
✨Understand the Client Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the key clients mentioned in the job description, such as National Grid and SSE. Understanding their needs and how your expertise can benefit them will show that you're proactive and client-focused.
✨Prepare for Collaborative Scenarios
Since the role requires collaboration with internal teams, think of examples where you've worked cross-functionally. Be ready to discuss how you approach teamwork and integrate different engineering disciplines to deliver successful projects.
