At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design of complex infrastructure projects like bridges and retaining walls.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking team dedicated to innovative civil engineering solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours, generous leave, and wellbeing support.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on critical infrastructure while promoting sustainability.
- Qualifications: Experience in structural and geotechnical design with strong leadership skills.
- Other info: Great career growth opportunities and a supportive work environment.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 ÂŁ per year.
We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Structures and Geotechnical Design Lead to provide expert technical leadership across a diverse portfolio of capital projects. This pivotal role will lead the design and delivery of complex infrastructure schemes, including bridges, retaining walls, culverts, landslip remediation, and geotechnical investigations.
You will manage a team of engineers and technicians, ensuring that all design work meets the highest standards of safety, quality, and efficiency. Working closely with internal teams and external partners such as Network Rail, the Environment Agency, and the British Geological Survey, you’ll drive innovation, sustainability, and a "right first time" ethos across all projects. This role also includes deputising for the Highway Design Manager and contributing to strategic forums, project coordination groups, and partnership collaborations.
Key Responsibilities- Lead the design and delivery of complex structures and geotechnical schemes.
- Manage and mentor a team of engineers and technicians.
- Ensure compliance with Eurocode 7, DMRB, CDM 2015, and other relevant standards.
- Coordinate with external agencies and partners on technical matters.
- Oversee project budgets and ensure value for money.
- Promote sustainable design and carbon reduction in infrastructure delivery.
- Provide technical leadership in multi-disciplinary project teams.
- Deputise for the Highway Design Manager in strategic engagements.
- Substantial experience in structural and geotechnical design within highways or civil engineering.
- Proven leadership and team management skills.
- Strong understanding of technical standards, specifications, and contract management.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities.
- Commitment to safety, sustainability, and continuous improvement.
- HNC/HND or equivalent in Civil Engineering or related discipline.
- Extensive experience in highways authority or infrastructure design.
- Demonstrable experience managing complex and politically sensitive projects.
- Membership of professional institutions (e.g., ICE, CIHT).
- Experience with NEC contracts and Early Contractor Involvement (ECI).
- Proficiency in design and modelling software.
- Relevant industry qualifications (e.g., HERS/ECS card holder).
- 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 Derbyshire’s most critical infrastructure projects and shape the future of our highways network, 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.
Structures and Geotechnical Design Lead employer: Highways Magazine
Contact Detail:
Highways Magazine Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Structures and Geotechnical Design Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Network, network, network! Get out there and connect with professionals in the civil engineering field. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to people on LinkedIn. You never know who might have a lead on your dream job!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews like it’s a project presentation. Research the company, understand their projects, and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs. Practise common interview questions and think of examples that showcase your leadership and technical skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio that highlights your best work in structural and geotechnical design. Include case studies of past projects, detailing your role and the impact you made. This will give potential employers a clear picture of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our platform. So, hit that 'Apply Now' button and let’s get started on your journey!
We think you need these skills to ace Structures and Geotechnical Design Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Structures and Geotechnical Design Lead role. Highlight your relevant experience in structural and geotechnical design, and don’t forget to mention any leadership roles you've had. We want to see how you can bring your skills to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your experience aligns with our needs. Be sure to mention your commitment to safety and sustainability, as these are key values for us at StudySmarter.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: In your application, make sure to showcase your technical skills and knowledge of relevant standards like Eurocode 7 and DMRB. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so let us know how you’ve applied these in past projects!
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 and our amazing team culture.
How to prepare for a job interview at Highways Magazine
✨Know Your Technical Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of structural and geotechnical design principles. Familiarise yourself with Eurocode 7, DMRB, and CDM 2015 standards. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you're not just a leader but also a technical expert.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past. Think about specific projects where you mentored engineers or technicians, and be ready to discuss how you fostered collaboration and innovation within your team.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since this role involves working closely with external partners like Network Rail and the Environment Agency, practice how you'll communicate effectively with various stakeholders. Be prepared to discuss how you've navigated complex relationships in previous roles.
✨Emphasise Sustainability
With a focus on promoting sustainable design, think about how you've integrated sustainability into your past projects. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've contributed to carbon reduction and innovative solutions in infrastructure delivery.