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- Tasks: Lead innovative drainage design projects to protect communities and enhance safety.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking council committed to sustainability and community welfare.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours, generous leave, and wellbeing support.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on climate change and community resilience through your engineering skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in drainage design and project management is essential.
- Other info: Great opportunities for career growth and professional development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
We are seeking an experienced Senior Engineer – Drainage Design to lead the planning, design, and delivery of highway drainage solutions across Derbyshire. This role is critical to managing flood risk, improving network resilience, and supporting sustainable development through innovative drainage design. You will manage complex projects from feasibility through to detailed design, ensuring compliance with national standards and technical excellence. Working collaboratively with internal teams, contractors, and external partners, you’ll deliver schemes that protect communities, enhance safety, and support the council’s climate change objectives. This is a senior technical role requiring strong leadership, advanced design skills, and a commitment to innovation and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the design and delivery of highway drainage schemes, including SuDS.
- Investigate flooding incidents and develop mitigation strategies.
- Prepare technical specifications, cost estimates, and risk assessments.
- Ensure compliance with DMRB, CDM 2015, and the Flood and Water Management Act 2010.
- Supervise and mentor junior engineers and technicians.
- Manage budgets and ensure value for money.
- Liaise with stakeholders, contractors, and statutory bodies to ensure efficient delivery.
- Champion innovation and sustainable drainage practices.
- Provide technical input to multi-disciplinary project teams.
About You
- Substantial experience in drainage design and flood risk management within a highways or civil engineering context.
- Strong knowledge of drainage standards, hydraulic design, and environmental regulations.
- Proficiency in CAD and relevant design software.
- Excellent project management and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Commitment to safety, sustainability, and innovation.
Essential Qualifications and Experience
- HNC/HND or equivalent in Civil Engineering or related discipline.
- Demonstrable experience managing complex drainage projects.
- Strong understanding of relevant legislation and technical standards.
Desirable
- Membership of professional institutions (e.g., ICE, CIHT, IHE).
- Project management qualifications (e.g., PRINCE2, APM).
- Experience as Principal Designer under CDM regulations.
- Familiarity with NEC contracts and collaborative delivery models.
Support & Benefits
- Flexi Time Scheme: Up to two days flexi leave every four weeks (pro rata for part-time employees), subject to service needs.
- Generous Annual Leave Scheme: Ensures a healthy work-life balance.
- Local Government Pension Scheme: Provides financial security.
- Wellbeing Support Framework: Includes OH physician services, physiotherapy, CBT, and in-house counselling.
- Employee Wellbeing Support: Fast track physiotherapy, confidential psychological support services, Employee Assistance Programme, and “Wisdom” app.
- Electric/Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle Salary Sacrifice Scheme: Encourages environmentally friendly commuting options.
- Our Derbyshire Rewards: a package of benefits and discounts.
If you’re ready to lead the design of sustainable drainage solutions that protect communities and enhance network resilience, we’d love to hear from you!
Closing Date: Sunday 1st February 2026
Interview Date: 9th to 13th February
To apply please click the Apply Now link below.
Senior Engineer - Design (Drainage) employer: Highways Magazine
Contact Detail:
Highways Magazine Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Engineer - Design (Drainage)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, workshops, and seminars related to drainage design and civil engineering. This is your chance to meet potential employers and showcase your expertise in person.
✨Tip Number 2
Don’t underestimate the power of LinkedIn! Update your profile to reflect your skills in drainage design and flood risk management. Connect with professionals in the field and engage with their content to get noticed.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and project management skills. Be ready to discuss your past projects and how you’ve tackled challenges in drainage design.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team and contributing to innovative drainage solutions.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Engineer - Design (Drainage)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Engineer – Drainage Design role. Highlight your experience in drainage design and flood risk management, and don’t forget to mention any relevant projects you've led. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about drainage design and how you can contribute to our innovative projects. Be sure to mention your commitment to sustainability and safety, as these are key for us.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: We’re looking for someone with strong technical skills, so make sure to highlight your proficiency in CAD and any relevant design software. If you have experience with DMRB or CDM regulations, shout about it! This will show us you’re the right fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about what we do at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Highways Magazine
✨Know Your Drainage Standards
Make sure you brush up on the relevant drainage standards and legislation, like DMRB and the Flood and Water Management Act. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you’re not just familiar with the basics but are also committed to compliance and technical excellence.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Prepare examples of complex drainage projects you've managed. Highlight your project management experience, especially any qualifications like PRINCE2 or APM. This will demonstrate your ability to lead and deliver successful outcomes, which is crucial for this senior role.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you’ve liaised with stakeholders in past projects. Be ready to discuss your approach to stakeholder engagement and how you ensure efficient delivery while managing expectations. This will illustrate your collaborative spirit and leadership skills.
✨Emphasise Innovation and Sustainability
Prepare to talk about innovative drainage solutions you’ve implemented or proposed. Discuss your commitment to sustainability and how you’ve championed environmentally friendly practices in your previous roles. This aligns perfectly with the council’s climate change objectives.
