Senior/Principal Drainage Engineer
Senior/Principal Drainage Engineer

Senior/Principal Drainage Engineer

Birmingham Full-Time 36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead exciting drainage projects and manage a vibrant team in infrastructure design.
  • Company: Join SYSTRA, a global leader in transport solutions, shaping cities for over 60 years.
  • Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive pay, bonuses, private healthcare, and flexible benefits.
  • Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team focused on sustainability and innovation in transport infrastructure.
  • Qualifications: Experience in civil engineering and drainage design is essential; project management skills are a plus.
  • Other info: Diversity and inclusion are key; we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.

Join to apply for the Senior/Principal Drainage Engineer role at SYSTRA UK & Ireland. Around the world, SYSTRA’s specialists plan, design, integrate, test, commission, project manage and deliver mass transit and mobility solutions that are relied on by more than 50 million people every day. For more than 60 years, the Group has been committed to helping cities and regions contribute to their development by creating, improving and modernising their transport infrastructure with sustainability, accessibility and innovation at the heart of our designs.

We are seeking a Senior/Principal Engineer with experience in the Highways/Development Infrastructure Sector to be part of our growing and vibrant drainage team working on exciting highway and development projects. The key role is to assist, support and deputise (when required) for the Drainage Associate Director as well as the wider drainage team, along with winning and delivering projects safely, efficiently, and effectively.

The candidate will form part of an existing team already delivering a varied programme of highway and transportation schemes for a wide range of public and private sector clients across both the local and strategic highway networks. You can expect to work on development infrastructure projects from feasibility through to detailed design including drainage design, Flood Risk Assessments, and associated technical and statutory authority approvals.

You will be responsible for projects, delivery, budgets, resourcing, planning, and programming whilst also responsible for the preparation of technical outputs, coordinating with other disciplines and representing the business internally and externally. You will also be required to play a key role in the development of the team, projects, clients, and business performance whilst also leading projects.

Missions/Main Duties

  • Responsible for the financial, technical and project management control of the civil engineering aspects of small to large projects.
  • Delegate to, manage and direct Engineers and Technicians involved on projects.
  • Develop and supervise junior Engineers in the team.
  • Responsible for all stages of drainage designs (adoptable or non-adoptable) ensuring compliance with appropriate standards (Sewers for Adoption/Scotland, Local Design Guides, and DMRB).
  • Production and delivery of Technical packages and applications.
  • Directing team members in the production of Micro-drainage/Info Drainage, and Auto-CAD models and drawings.
  • Liaising with project team to ensure designs are fully co-ordinated.
  • Liaising with other construction professionals in the development of designs.
  • Assist and prepare with the delivery of technical outputs within the team (Drawings, Specifications, Cost Estimates, Contract Documents and Technical Reports); Preparation and pricing of scope/briefs, proposals, and deliverables for new projects.
  • Demonstrate leadership qualities and be self-motivated.
  • Identify, develop and maintain relationships with main client contacts.
  • Take commercial responsibility for projects.
  • Ensure successful project delivery to time, cost, quality and other contractual requirements.
  • Work with clients to understand ultimate objectives and desired outcomes for each project.
  • Make presentations to clients, third parties and colleagues as appropriate.
  • Be client facing, with the ability to represent the Company externally at a senior level, alongside managing their own workload and the ability to manage a number of projects at any one time.
  • Undertake site visits to monitor the progress of works against specifications, and highlight issues to the contractor, client and/or (internal or external) project manager as necessary.

Profile/Skills

Essential

  • Demonstrated Civil Engineering experience within a consultancy environment.
  • Good knowledge and experience of delivering surface/waste water drainage design and appropriate approval processes.
  • Experience of drainage technical design on major and minor projects including a good understanding of design principles and the ability to practically apply them.
  • Good knowledge and use of Sewers for Adoption, Sewers for Scotland, DMRB, MCHW, MfS, Local Authority guides, etc and their applications.
  • Good knowledge of standard engineering practices and a demonstrable understanding of Health and Safety including CDM.
  • Must be IT literate with excellent knowledge of Auto-CAD/Micro-drainage/Info-drainage, Civil3D and other civil engineering packages to design and detail highway and drainage infrastructure.
  • Experience of project management with a good understanding and responsibility of financial and commercial aspects of projects.
  • Experience of highway design would be beneficial.
  • Ability to determine appropriate solution with innovation and value.
  • Excellent communications skills to be capable of communicating effectively with colleagues and Clients along with managing Client expectations, and communications/relationships with external design teams.
  • Experience in line managing and providing technical oversight for delivery teams.
  • Ability to mentor and supervise more junior colleagues.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with a range of design teams and project stakeholders.
  • Excellent written skills along with the preparation of technical reports and fee proposals.

Desirable

  • Ability to deliver on time whilst handling multiple projects/tasks.
  • Experience of working with Public and Private sector is preferable.
  • Knowledge of and engagement with the civil engineering industry.
  • Adaptable, self-motivated, enthusiastic, hardworking, and desire to self-progress.
  • Flexibility, agility, and a willingness to learn new skills.
  • Ability to 'see the bigger picture' and understand the consequences of decisions.

Why SYSTRA?

Our three core values: Excellence, Connected Teams and Bold Leadership are kept at the heart of everything we do. We strive for the highest levels of technical excellence, achieving the best results through teamwork, both locally and internationally, and reward innovative thinking through encouraging all colleagues to think as leaders. We offer clear and well supported pathways for career development and qualification attainment, a competitive remuneration package including a bonus and private healthcare, an electric car scheme and a broad suite of flexible benefits to suit your lifestyle.

Flexibility

Because we value who you are as much as what you do, we want you to feel supported at work. We offer hybrid working, balancing the benefits of working from home with time in our modern, well-equipped offices for that crucial in-person contact, team development and collaborative working. We also recognise that life doesn’t always run to the same schedule for everyone, so we have a dedicated flexible working policy to support you in tailoring your work life to reach your full potential.

Diversity & Inclusion

We provide a warm welcome and encourage applications from a diverse range of people who can enrich our company and offer perspectives which will drive better solutions in a truly inclusive environment. Our employee led working groups and clearly defined strategy help us to keep at the leading edge of important issues and keep us accountable. We want our colleagues to feel comfortable to bring their whole selves to work and continually seek new ideas and contributions to ensure we continue to grow and develop in this space.

Wellbeing

It’s no surprise that people do their best work when they feel physically and mentally supported. Our SYSTRA Wellness Programme offers a wide range of support; from Wellness champions, to free health checks, healthy eating workshops and regular seminars, alongside access to a wide range of external support. We offer two paid days for charity work and an ever-growing social calendar.

If you require any adjustments or financial assistance to support you in your application or interview process please email: reasonableadjustments@systra.com where your request will be treated confidentially and with respect. We pledge to offer an interview to any candidates with a disability who apply for a role and meet the minimum criteria.

As we are always looking to expand our team, we would still be interested in hearing from you if you fulfil most, but not all, of the relevant criteria for the role – you could still be just what we are looking for.

Senior/Principal Drainage Engineer employer: SYSTRA UK & Ireland

SYSTRA UK & Ireland is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises excellence, teamwork, and bold leadership. With a commitment to employee growth through clear career pathways and a competitive benefits package, including hybrid working options and wellness programmes, SYSTRA fosters an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued. Located in the vibrant West Midlands, employees can engage in meaningful projects that contribute to sustainable transport infrastructure while enjoying a supportive and flexible workplace.
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Contact Detail:

SYSTRA UK & Ireland Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Senior/Principal Drainage Engineer

✨Tip Number 1

Network with professionals in the civil engineering and drainage sectors. Attend industry events, webinars, or local meetups to connect with potential colleagues or mentors who can provide insights into SYSTRA's work culture and projects.

✨Tip Number 2

Familiarise yourself with SYSTRA's recent projects and initiatives, especially those related to drainage and infrastructure. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your genuine interest in the company during interviews and discussions.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your experience with relevant software like Auto-CAD and Micro-drainage. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've used these tools in past projects to showcase your technical skills.

✨Tip Number 4

Highlight your leadership and mentoring experiences. Since the role involves managing junior engineers, be prepared to discuss how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past, demonstrating your ability to guide others.

We think you need these skills to ace Senior/Principal Drainage Engineer

Civil Engineering Experience
Surface/Waste Water Drainage Design
Technical Design Principles
Sewers for Adoption Knowledge
DMRB Familiarity
Health and Safety Compliance (CDM)
AutoCAD Proficiency
Micro-drainage/Info Drainage Skills
Civil3D Expertise
Project Management
Financial and Commercial Acumen
Excellent Communication Skills
Technical Report Writing
Team Leadership and Mentoring
Client Relationship Management
Problem-Solving Skills
Adaptability and Flexibility

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in civil engineering, particularly in drainage design and project management. Use specific examples from your past work that align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only introduces yourself but also explains why you are passionate about the role at SYSTRA. Mention your technical skills and how they relate to the projects you would be working on, as well as your enthusiasm for sustainability and innovation in infrastructure.

Showcase Your Technical Skills: In your application, emphasise your proficiency with software like Auto-CAD, Micro-drainage, and Civil3D. Provide examples of how you've used these tools in previous projects to demonstrate your capability and readiness for the role.

Highlight Leadership Experience: Since the role involves managing teams and mentoring junior engineers, include any leadership experiences you have. Discuss how you've successfully led projects or teams in the past, focusing on your ability to deliver results and foster collaboration.

How to prepare for a job interview at SYSTRA UK & Ireland

✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise

As a Senior/Principal Drainage Engineer, it's crucial to demonstrate your solid technical background. Be prepared to discuss specific projects you've worked on, particularly those involving drainage design and Flood Risk Assessments. Highlight your familiarity with relevant standards like Sewers for Adoption and DMRB.

✨Emphasise Project Management Skills

This role requires strong project management capabilities. Be ready to talk about your experience in managing budgets, resources, and timelines. Share examples of how you've successfully delivered projects on time and within budget, showcasing your ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

✨Demonstrate Leadership Qualities

Since you'll be leading projects and mentoring junior engineers, it's important to convey your leadership style. Discuss instances where you've directed teams or taken the initiative to solve problems. Show that you're self-motivated and can inspire others to achieve their best work.

✨Prepare for Client Interactions

Being client-facing is a key aspect of this role. Prepare to discuss how you've built and maintained relationships with clients in the past. Practice articulating how you understand client objectives and how you ensure their expectations are met throughout the project lifecycle.

Senior/Principal Drainage Engineer
SYSTRA UK & Ireland
Location: Birmingham
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