At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead transformative water projects and mentor future engineers in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join Jacobs, a leader in sustainable infrastructure solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, well-being support, and global development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to safety and sustainability.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on critical water infrastructure while shaping the future of engineering.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in water infrastructure and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Join Jacobs in Exeter as a Civil Engineer, Senior Civil Engineer, or Principal Civil Engineer – Water (Detailed Design / Design & Build) to lead transformative water and wastewater projects for major UK water companies including United Utilities, Northumbrian Water, Thames Water, Severn Trent Water, and Anglian Water. The role focuses on technical direction, mentorship, and influencing the design and construction of critical infrastructure.
Responsibilities
- Lead integrated, multi‑disciplinary design and delivery teams across civil, process, MEICA and construction disciplines.
- Own technical governance, including design reviews, change control, BIM/CDE delivery, and design freeze.
- Act as the senior technical interface with clients, regulators, contractors, and the supply chain.
- Guide projects from concept through to construction and handover.
- Champion safety in design, HAZID/HAZOP, and risk‑based engineering.
- Mentor and develop engineers, shaping standards, capability, and future leaders.
Key Activities
- Safeguard communities and the environment through safe, compliant and buildable designs.
- Drive low‑carbon, sustainable solutions using modern construction methods and digital engineering.
- Shape smarter, safer infrastructure by embedding constructability, operability and CDM best practice.
- Leave a lasting legacy across some of the UK’s most high‑profile water frameworks.
Qualifications
- Extensive experience delivering water and wastewater infrastructure (treatment works, pumping stations, pipelines, MEICA).
- Strong understanding of AMP delivery, water company governance and regulated utilities.
- Proven leadership of multi‑disciplinary teams through design, construction and handover.
- A safety‑led, risk‑based engineering mindset with strong asset lifecycle knowledge.
- Experience using BIM, digital tools and Common Data Environments.
- A degree in Civil Engineering (or similar) and CEng status (or working towards).
Equal Opportunity
As a disability confident employer, we will interview disabled candidates who best meet the criteria. We welcome applications from candidates seeking flexible working and from those who may not meet all the listed requirements for a role.
Benefits
- Flexible working arrangements.
- Well‑being benefits and support.
- Global giving and volunteering programme.
- Opportunities to develop in a global, inclusive environment.
Principal Engineer - Water D&B - Exeter employer: Jacobs
Join Jacobs in Exeter, where we prioritise a collaborative and inclusive work culture that empowers our employees to lead transformative water projects. With flexible working arrangements, comprehensive well-being support, and a commitment to professional development, we offer a unique opportunity to shape the future of critical infrastructure while making a positive impact on communities and the environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Engineer - Water D&B - Exeter
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join online forums, or even hit up LinkedIn. The more you engage with others, the better your chances of landing that Principal Engineer role.
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your experience with water and wastewater projects. Talk about your leadership in multi-disciplinary teams and how you've driven sustainable solutions. We want to see your passion!
✨Ask Smart Questions
During interviews, don’t just wait for them to ask you questions. Prepare some insightful ones about their projects or company culture. This shows you're genuinely interested and helps you stand out from the crowd.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at Jacobs in Exeter.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Engineer - Water D&B - Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the Principal Engineer role. Highlight your experience in water and wastewater projects, and don’t forget to mention any leadership roles you've had!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about water infrastructure and how your background makes you the perfect fit for our team. Be sure to mention any relevant projects you've led.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:We want to see your technical prowess! Include details about your experience with BIM, digital tools, and your understanding of AMP delivery. This will help us understand how you can contribute to our projects right from the get-go.
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’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Jacobs
✨Know Your Projects Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the water and wastewater projects you've worked on. Be ready to discuss specific challenges you faced, how you led your team, and the innovative solutions you implemented. This will show your depth of experience and technical knowledge.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Engineer, you'll be expected to lead multi-disciplinary teams. Prepare examples that highlight your leadership style, how you mentor others, and how you've influenced project outcomes. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Emphasise Safety and Sustainability
Given the focus on safety in design and low-carbon solutions, be prepared to discuss how you've integrated these principles into your work. Share specific instances where you championed safety measures or implemented sustainable practices in your projects.
✨Familiarise Yourself with BIM and Digital Tools
Since the role involves using BIM and digital engineering tools, brush up on your knowledge of these technologies. Be ready to discuss how you've used them in past projects and how they can enhance project delivery and collaboration.
