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\’ll 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.
ACS are recruiting for a Principal Design Engineer. If you feel that you have the skills and experience required in this advertisement to be a (Job Title) 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 Engineerrole you desire.
JBRP1_UKTJ
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. Being well-versed in these technologies will not only enhance your skill set but also demonstrate your commitment to innovation in design processes during interviews.
✨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
Showcase your leadership and mentoring abilities by preparing anecdotes that highlight your experience supervising junior engineers. This will help illustrate your capability to lead teams effectively, which is a key aspect of the Principal Design Engineer role.
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 leadership and technical skills.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, outline your experience as a Principal Design Engineer, focusing on your expertise in foundations, ground stability, and shoring systems. Mention how you can contribute to the company's goals and your familiarity with NEC4 and JCT contracts.
Highlight Technical Proficiency: Clearly list your proficiency in software tools like AutoCAD, Civils 3D, Revit, and BIM technologies. This is crucial for the role, so make sure it stands out in both your CV and cover letter.
Showcase Leadership Skills: Emphasise your experience in supervising and mentoring junior engineers. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed teams or collaborated with clients and stakeholders to drive project success.
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 successfully managed ground stability or shoring systems, as this will demonstrate your technical strength and relevance to the role.
✨Emphasise 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 to drive innovation.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Relevant Contracts
Understanding NEC4 and JCT frameworks is crucial for this position. Brush up on these contracts and be prepared to discuss how you've navigated contract discussions in the past, showcasing your commercial awareness.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Safety and Compliance
Given the importance of QHSE standards, be ready to talk about your knowledge of health and safety regulations and how you've ensured compliance in your previous roles. This will show that you prioritise safety in engineering practices.
