At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative civil engineering projects in renewable energy and infrastructure.
- Company: Join AECOM, a global leader in sustainable infrastructure.
- Benefits: Flexible hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape the future of energy while making a real impact on the environment.
- Qualifications: BEng in Civil Engineering and experience in energy transition projects.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
We are looking for an experienced Principal Civil Engineer to support the continued expansion of the energy team and help shape the future of sustainable infrastructure. Successful candidates will be deployed to support projects across both the Renewables & Transmission and Distribution teams. This position can be based in our growing offices in Bristol, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, London - Aldgate Tower, Perth, and benefit from our flexible hybrid working model.
As a Principal Civil Engineer, you’ll play a key technical role across a diverse portfolio of energy projects, including:
- Onshore wind
- Hydroelectric (run‑off river and pumped storage)
- Grid infrastructure – Substation and Overhead Line
- Battery Energy Storage System (BESS)
You will be involved from feasibility through to detailed design and construction supervision, working with both major energy utility providers and private developers.
What You’ll Do:
- Act as lead verifier on reports including technical feasibility studies and design reports.
- Liaise with clients, manage project work on a day‑to‑day basis and ensure that the work is delivered within the agreed timescale and budgets.
- Coordinate multi‑disciplinary design teams.
- Lead and manage the design of civil infrastructure including roads, drainage, civil structural infrastructure and external works.
- Prepare and review calculations, detailed design drawings and specifications ensuring compliance with UK standards (BS EN codes, Eurocodes, CDM Regulations).
- Conduct site inspections and respond to technical queries.
- Produce high‑quality reports (feasibility studies, inspection reports, design documentation).
- Mentor and guide junior staff.
Here’s what we’re looking for:
- BEng (Hons) degree in Civil Engineering.
- Chartered status or actively working towards chartership with the Institution of Civil Engineers or other relevant Institution.
- Experience in delivering complex multi‑disciplinary projects for the Energy Transition industry is highly desirable.
- Experience within UK Transmission & Distribution projects (11KV - 400KV) is highly desirable.
- This role is a technical role, and you will be expected to demonstrate a high degree of technical competency in the design of civil or structural elements.
- In addition to engineering skills, report writing and organisational skills will be key to the role.
- Familiarity with National Grid Technical Specifications (NGTS) or National Grid CDAE status will be an added advantage.
We celebrate diversity, including neurodiversity, and believe it enriches our team. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and abilities. If you are an applicant with a disability that requires reasonable accommodation to complete the application process, please contact us at ReasonableAccommodations@aecom.com. At AECOM, we value everyone's unique contributions and perspectives. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
Principal Civil Engineer – Renewables & Transmission & Distribution employer: AECO
At AECOM, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration. Our hybrid working model allows for flexibility, while our commitment to employee growth ensures that you will have ample opportunities to develop your skills and advance your career in the thriving energy sector. Join us in Edinburgh, where you can contribute to meaningful projects that shape sustainable infrastructure and make a positive impact on the world.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Civil Engineer – Renewables & Transmission & Distribution
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join online forums, or even hit up LinkedIn. The more you engage with others, the better your chances of hearing about job openings before they’re even advertised.
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, don’t hold back! Share specific examples of your past projects and how you tackled challenges. This is your moment to shine and show them why you’re the perfect fit for the Principal Civil Engineer role.
✨Tailor Your Approach
Every company is different, so make sure you tailor your conversations to match their values and projects. Research AECOM’s recent work in renewables and transmission & distribution, and bring that knowledge into your discussions to show you’re genuinely interested.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and making a difference in sustainable infrastructure.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Civil Engineer – Renewables & Transmission & Distribution
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Principal Civil Engineer role. Highlight your experience in renewables, transmission, and distribution projects to show us you’re the right fit!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about sustainable infrastructure and how your background makes you the perfect candidate for this position.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Since this is a technical role, don’t forget to mention your engineering competencies, especially in civil or structural design. We want to see your expertise in action!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into our hands quickly and efficiently. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at AECO
✨Know Your Technical Stuff
As a Principal Civil Engineer, you'll need to showcase your technical expertise. Brush up on the latest standards and codes relevant to civil engineering in the energy sector, especially those related to renewables and transmission. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on and how you tackled challenges.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
This role involves managing multi-disciplinary teams and ensuring projects stay on track. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led projects, managed budgets, and liaised with clients. Highlight your organisational skills and ability to coordinate various aspects of a project.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and teamwork. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. Think of scenarios where you mentored junior staff or resolved conflicts within a team, as these will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the company's projects, culture, and future direction in the energy sector. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you determine if it's the right fit for you.
