Principal Electrical Engineer
About the role
Are you an experienced Electrical Design Engineer looking to work on major Data Centre developments while gaining exposure to the commercial side of project delivery? We’re working exclusively with a leading global Property Consultancy that is continuing to grow its specialist Data Centre Building Services team. You may already have experience of the Data Centre sector, or you may be looking for the opportunity to gain experience in this growing sector. Unlike a traditional MEP consultancy, this role places you much closer to the client, giving you direct involvement with developers, investors and operators delivering some of the most significant Data Centre projects in the market.
Working within a multidisciplinary property consultancy environment, you’ll lead the mechanical design and delivery of mission‑critical projects from feasibility through to completion, acting as a trusted advisor to clients while coordinating internal teams, external consultants and contractors. This is an opportunity to combine technical engineering expertise with a broader understanding of commercial property, asset performance and project strategy—developing skills that extend well beyond design consultancy.
The Role
As a Principal Engineer, you’ll take ownership of Data Centre projects, ensuring successful delivery to programme, budget and quality requirements. You’ll be responsible for leading design development, reviewing technical submissions, managing stakeholder relationships and mentoring engineers within the team. The role offers exposure to every stage of project delivery, from due diligence and feasibility studies through to construction, commissioning and handover.
Essential Skills
- Fully versed in UK building regulations, British Standards and CIBSE Standards.
- Ideally aware of LV systems, standby generation plant, UPS systems, lighting, small power, fire detection, earthing and lighting protection.
- The ability to work as part of a team and effectively lead, direct and mentor individuals within and outside of the team.
- Strong knowledge of contract administration, procurement and conditions of contract / appointment.
- Assist in providing fee proposals upon request, with an understanding of expected resource expenditure required.
- Ability to lead and demonstrate designs to the design team and client.
Responsibilities
- Design calculations (including peer reviews)
- Contribution to all RIBA design stages
- Responsibility for all aspects of assigned project work with an established team, supporting junior members of the team and acting as a technical design lead and mentor
- Effectively delegating and managing work packages to ensure support and guidance is provided to team members including the mentoring of graduates, apprentices, technical and other staff
- Production of detailed design deliverables including drawings, schedules, specifications and reports
- Production of due diligence reports
- Provide technical surveys detailing existing M&E services infrastructure
- Carrying out feasibility studies
- Lead representative at project meetings and workshops and capable of running a complete project
- Liaising with internal and external stakeholders
- Contractor monitoring and oversight
- Building long term relationships and focus on repeat business
- Mentor and manage junior engineers
- Check and approve contractor shop drawings and technical submittals prior to construction
- Responding to tenderer/contractor requests for information (RFIs).
- Witness and review tests and mock-ups carried out both on and off site
- Inspect works and issue quality, defects and practical completion lists
Why Join?
The Data Centre sector continues to be one of the fastest‑growing sectors in the industry, and this business is at the centre of that growth. You’ll benefit from a strong pipeline of client‑led projects, direct access to decision‑makers, structured professional development and a collaborative environment where commercial awareness is developed alongside technical excellence. Package includes salary up to £75,000, annual bonus, 8% pension contribution, private healthcare, life assurance and genuine long‑term career progression. As part of their benefits package, they offer an annual bonus circa 10% of salary (this has been higher in recent years). Unlike traditional consultants their bonus scheme is a fundamental part of their remuneration.
Please get in touch for an initial, confidential discussion about how a move into Property Consultancy within the Data Centre sector, could have a significant impact on your career path.
Your tasks
Lead major Data Centre projects from design to completion, mentoring junior engineers along the way.
Your profile
Experience in electrical design and knowledge of UK building regulations required.
What's also included
Up to £75,000 salary, annual bonus, private healthcare, and excellent career progression.
Tech stack & ways of working
Principal Electrical Engineer employer: ibse
ibse is an excellent employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, allowing Senior Electrical Engineers to thrive in their roles while working on cutting-edge Data Centre designs. With a strong emphasis on employee ownership, we provide ample opportunities for professional growth and development, ensuring that our team members are not only engaged but also rewarded for their contributions in the vibrant city of London.
Your perspectives
Gain unique exposure to commercial project delivery while developing your engineering expertise.
StudySmarter Expert Advice
Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Principal Electrical Engineer role you’re after at ibse.
Show Off Your Projects!
Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at ibse a taste of what you can bring to the table!
Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at ibse.
Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Principal Electrical Engineer at ibse, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise
When applying for an engineering role like Principal Electrical Engineer, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact
In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at ibse a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter
Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to ibse specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications
If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at ibse
Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with ibse, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like ibse want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.