At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop a structural engineering team while delivering innovative designs.
- Company: A growing multi-disciplinary engineering consultancy with a strong project pipeline.
- Benefits: Opportunity for team growth, mentorship, and professional development.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with clear progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a structural division and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in structural design and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
A growing multi-disciplinary engineering consultancy is looking to appoint its first dedicated Principal Structural Engineer as part of an exciting period of expansion. With an established Civil Engineering team already delivering a strong pipeline of work, this is a unique opportunity for a Principal Structural Engineer to take ownership of the structural function and play a leading role in shaping its future direction.
Working closely with the Regional Director, the successful Principal Structural Engineer will have the chance to build and develop their own structural team over time, making this an ideal move for someone looking to step into management or an existing leader wanting greater autonomy and influence.
The RoleThis is a rare opportunity to join a business with a substantial portfolio of live projects already secured across sectors including:
- Education
- Healthcare
- Commercial
Unlike many growth roles, there is no expectation to build a workload from scratch. The projects, client relationships and wider infrastructure are already in place — allowing the incoming Principal Structural Engineer to focus on technical delivery, team development and long‑term growth.
Responsibilities will include:- Delivering structural designs and calculations across a varied project portfolio
- Undertaking structural inspections and site surveys
- Coordinating with clients, architects, contractors and multidisciplinary teams
- Supporting scheme design and value engineering exercises
- Reviewing drawings and calculations produced by colleagues
- Mentoring and supporting junior engineers as the team grows
- Assisting with project planning, delivery and programme management
- Maintaining compliance with current legislation, design standards and quality procedures
- Contributing to the future growth and development of the structural engineering capability within the region
The business is keen to speak with ambitious engineers who are excited by the opportunity to help shape and grow a structural division. Requirements include:
- Experience designing steel, reinforced concrete and masonry structures
- Strong understanding of UK Building Regulations and NHBC standards
- Experience undertaking structural surveys and inspections
- Working knowledge of Revit and/or AutoCAD
- Experience using structural analysis and finite element modelling software
- Degree or HNC qualified within a relevant engineering discipline
- Working towards or already achieved Chartership with ICE or IStructE
- Strong communication and client‑facing skills
- A proactive and collaborative approach
- An interest in mentoring, leadership and team development
- Opportunity to establish and grow your own structural engineering team
- Direct mentorship and support from senior leadership
- Strong pipeline of secured projects across diverse sectors
- Clear progression and leadership opportunities
- Collaborative and supportive consultancy environment
- Ongoing CPD and professional development support
- Chance to make a genuine impact within a growing regional business
Principal Structural Engineer employer: GirlingJones
Join a dynamic and expanding multi-disciplinary engineering consultancy that offers the unique opportunity for a Principal Structural Engineer to lead and shape the structural function from the ground up. With a strong pipeline of secured projects across various sectors, you will benefit from a collaborative work culture, direct mentorship from senior leadership, and clear pathways for professional growth, making this an ideal environment for ambitious engineers looking to make a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Structural Engineer
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with industry professionals! Attend engineering events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that Principal Structural Engineer role.
✨Showcase Your Expertise
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your experience with structural designs and inspections. Share specific examples of projects you've worked on and how you’ve contributed to their success. We want to see your passion for engineering shine through!
✨Prepare for Interviews
Do your homework before any interview! Research the company’s projects and values, and think about how your skills align with their needs. We recommend practising common interview questions related to structural engineering so you can confidently demonstrate your knowledge and leadership potential.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to check out our website for job openings! Applying directly through us not only shows your interest but also gives you a better chance of being noticed. We’re here to help you find that perfect Principal Structural Engineer position, so let’s make it happen!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Structural Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Principal Structural Engineer role. Highlight your experience in designing structures and any leadership roles you've had, as we want to see how you can shape our structural team.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Share specific examples of your past projects and how they relate to what we’re looking for in a Principal Structural Engineer.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Don’t forget to mention your proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, and any structural analysis software you’ve used. We’re keen on seeing how your technical skills will contribute to our existing projects and future growth.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates about the hiring process!
How to prepare for a job interview at GirlingJones
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of structural engineering principles, especially regarding steel, reinforced concrete, and masonry structures. Familiarise yourself with UK Building Regulations and NHBC standards, as these will likely come up during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves building and developing a team, be prepared to discuss your leadership style and experiences. Think of examples where you've mentored junior engineers or led a project, and how you can bring that experience to the new role.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Projects
Have a few examples of past projects ready to share, particularly those that highlight your technical delivery and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams. This will demonstrate your ability to contribute to the existing portfolio and help shape future projects.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company's vision for the structural division and how they see it evolving. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if the company aligns with your career goals.
