Principal Design Engineer

Principal Design Engineer

Portsmouth Full-Time 48000 - 72000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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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, mentorship opportunities, and a collaborative work environment with cutting-edge technology.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on complex projects while developing your skills and leading a talented team.
  • Qualifications: Degree in Civil or Structural Engineering; experience in geotechnical design and temporary works is essential.
  • Other info: Chartered Engineer status and familiarity with NEC4 and JCT contracts are highly desirable.

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

At ACS, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration. As a Principal Design Engineer, you will benefit from extensive professional development opportunities, mentorship from experienced leaders, and the chance to work on cutting-edge geotechnical projects in a supportive environment. Our commitment to employee well-being and adherence to QHSE standards ensures a safe and rewarding workplace, making us a top choice for those seeking meaningful and impactful careers.
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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 might provide insights or referrals for the Principal Design Engineer role.

✨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 interviews 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 is crucial for the role, so be ready to share specific examples of how you've navigated contract discussions in past projects.

✨Tip Number 4

Highlight your leadership and mentoring experiences. As a Principal Design Engineer, you'll be supervising junior staff, so be prepared to discuss how you've successfully led teams and fostered their development in previous roles.

We think you need these skills to ace Principal Design Engineer

Geotechnical Design Expertise
Temporary Works Design
Foundations and Ground Stability Knowledge
Shoring Systems Design
Engineering Calculations Review
Technical Document Approval
Leadership and Mentoring Skills
Client Relationship Management
BIM and Digital Modelling Proficiency
NEC4 and JCT Contract Awareness
QHSE Compliance Knowledge
Microsoft 365 Proficiency
AutoCAD Proficiency
Civils 3D Proficiency
Revit Proficiency
Health and Safety Legislation Knowledge
Environmental Legislation Understanding

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, as well as your proficiency in BIM and digital modelling tools.

Showcase Relevant Skills: Highlight your technical skills in Microsoft 365, AutoCAD, Civils 3D, Revit, and any other relevant software. Make sure to mention your commercial awareness and understanding of QHSE standards and industry regulations.

Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is crucial for a Principal Design Engineer role.

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, shoring systems, or ground stability.

✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills

Since the role involves supervising junior staff, be ready to share examples of how you've mentored others. 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 previous projects and how you integrate these standards into your design processes.

✨Emphasise Innovation and Digital Tools

Talk about your experience with BIM and digital modelling tools. Share how you've used these technologies to drive innovation in your design practices and improve project outcomes.

Principal Design Engineer
ACS Performance
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  • Principal Design Engineer

    Portsmouth
    Full-Time
    48000 - 72000 £ / year (est.)

    Application deadline: 2027-06-03

  • A

    ACS Performance

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