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- Tasks: Lead engineering assurance for major energy transition projects and mentor engineering teams.
- Company: Join EET, a key player in the UK's low-carbon energy future.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous holiday, and flexible benefits.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the UK's energy transition while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Degree in mechanical engineering and extensive project leadership experience required.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with a strong safety culture and excellent training opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
About the Company
EET (Essar Energy Transition) plays a major role in supplying the North West and the wider UK with essential fuels. We produce over 16% of the UK's road fuels, supply key feedstocks to the petrochemical industry, and are investing heavily in low‐carbon energy solutions. We work with major retail fuel brands, supermarkets, Manchester Airport, leading airlines, and regional transport operators. We are also a key partner in the HyNet project, helping to deliver the region's low‐carbon future. With over 900 skilled colleagues, we offer a strong safety culture, technically challenging work, and some of the best training in the energy sector.
The Role
We are seeking an experienced Principal Mechanical Engineer to join our team and play a pivotal role in delivering Essar's energy transition projects. This is a critical position where you will provide technical assurance and act as the subject matter expert in your engineering discipline. You will ensure projects comply with UK legislation and Essar Oil UK standards, while driving safety, quality, and efficiency throughout the project lifecycle.
As Principal Mechanical Engineer, you will lead engineering assurance activities across a portfolio of high‐value projects, guiding teams through design, implementation, and commissioning phases. You will also influence strategic decisions, mentor engineers, and champion best practices in safety and compliance.
What You'll Do
- Provide technical assurance and specialist engineering support across major projects.
- Approve key project documents including feasibility studies, FEED reports, and execution plans.
- Participate in critical reviews such as HAZOP, constructability assessments, and risk evaluations.
- Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental standards, including COMAH regulations.
- Drive process improvements, cost efficiencies, and promote innovative technologies.
- Support digitalisation initiatives and implement fit-for-purpose solutions.
- Collaborate with internal teams and external contractors to achieve flawless project execution.
- Lead and mentor engineering teams, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
Qualifications & Experience
- Degree and master’s in mechanical engineering.
- Chartered Engineer status.
- Extensive experience in mechanical engineering.
- Strong knowledge of UK legislation, safety standards, and COMAH regulations.
- Proven track record of leading complex, high‐value technical projects.
- Authorised site signatory within the Oil & Gas / refinery industry.
- Excellent communication, leadership, and decision‐making skills.
Skills and Attributes
- Ability to inspire and guide teams, set clear direction, and create a results‐driven culture.
- Skilled at making timely, informed decisions under pressure.
- Strong analytical skills to identify issues and deliver practical solutions.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills to engage stakeholders at all levels.
- Ability to work effectively across multi‐disciplinary teams and external partners.
- Deep understanding of engineering technologies and standards, with the ability to operate as both a specialist and generalist.
- Commitment to driving efficiency, innovation, and best practices.
- High level of safety awareness and ability to embed safety culture within teams.
- Comfortable managing multiple priorities and adapting to changing project requirements.
Closing Date
Applications will close 14th February 2026.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary
- 10% company pension contribution
- 25 days' holiday (increasing with service)
- Private medical insurance
- Flexible benefits, including the option to buy extra holiday
- Access to an Employee Assistance Programme and a wide range of discounts
- Free, secure on‐site parking
Principal Mechanical Engineer in Chester employer: EET Fuels
Contact Detail:
EET Fuels Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Mechanical Engineer in Chester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it's not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that Principal Mechanical Engineer role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching EET and their projects. Understand their commitment to low-carbon energy solutions and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals. We want to see you shine and show them why you're the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your technical explanations! As a Principal Mechanical Engineer, you'll need to communicate complex ideas clearly. We suggest doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your delivery and boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us. Let’s get you on board!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Mechanical Engineer in Chester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Principal Mechanical Engineer role. Highlight your relevant experience, especially in leading complex projects and ensuring compliance with UK legislation. We want to see how your skills align with what we’re looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about energy transition and how your background makes you the perfect fit for our team. Don’t forget to mention any specific projects or achievements that showcase your expertise.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: As a Principal Mechanical Engineer, your technical skills are crucial. Be sure to highlight your knowledge of safety standards, COMAH regulations, and any digitalisation initiatives you've been involved in. We love seeing candidates who can drive innovation!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Let’s get your journey started!
How to prepare for a job interview at EET Fuels
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your mechanical engineering knowledge, especially around UK legislation and safety standards. Be prepared to discuss specific projects you've worked on and how you ensured compliance with regulations like COMAH.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Mechanical Engineer, you'll be expected to lead teams and mentor others. Think of examples where you've inspired your team or made critical decisions under pressure. Highlight your ability to create a results-driven culture.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect in-depth technical questions related to engineering assurance activities, feasibility studies, and risk evaluations. Practise articulating your thought process clearly, as this will demonstrate your analytical skills and problem-solving abilities.
✨Emphasise Safety and Innovation
Safety is paramount in this role, so be ready to discuss how you've embedded a safety culture in previous projects. Also, share any innovative technologies or process improvements you've implemented to drive efficiency and quality.
