Principal Mechanical Engineer in Manchester

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Mott MacDonald Bentley is a fully integrated design and build business combining the design expertise of Mott MacDonald with the contracting experience of JN Bentley to deliver award winning projects. With an annual turnover surpassing £500 million, Mott MacDonald Bentley cements its position as a leader within the industry. The sustained, robust business performance creates an ideal environment for career growth.

We have been named a partner on a new AMP8 framework with United Utilities, which will extend our relationship for at least the next five years. The partnership is set to be responsible for over £3bn of major infrastructure in the North West of England. Investment includes upgrades to wastewater treatment works and reducing storm overflows through the delivery of the largest spill reduction programme in the UK, protecting more than 500 km of rivers and bathing waters.

Role Summary

As a Principal Mechanical Engineer, you will contribute to projects that significantly impact our environment and communities. Working primarily in the UK water market, MMB provides the feasibility, design, construction, and commissioning services needed to keep water flowing and wastewater treated. You’ll work on projects that make a real difference by enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of water and wastewater treatment systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee the design, planning, and execution of the mechanical engineering aspects of our projects.
• Provide technical expertise and guidance to our mechanical engineers and project teams. Develop knowledge and excellence within the team.
• Mentor and develop junior engineers and team members.
• Lead the development of the mechanical design of water and wastewater infrastructure and non‑infrastructure projects through the project lifecycle, encompassing P&IDs, valve schedules, pumps, tanks, process equipment, above ground pipework, lifting and access steelwork.
• Coordinate with the wider design team of Electrical, Civil, Geotech and Process engineers.
• Work closely with the project teams to ensure applications of client’s asset standards and engage in particular technical discussions on best practice and standards waivers.
• Work closely and collaboratively with the commercial, operational and construction teams to develop efficient, practical and safe solutions throughout design stages, construction and beyond.
• Positively engage with the client, managing relationships and adopting a one‑team approach to supporting them in achieving their aims.

Qualifications

• Chartered Mechanical Engineer or above.
• Degree in Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• Strong knowledge of the water and/or wastewater industry.
• Strong knowledge of mechanical engineering principles, practices and standards related to process industries.
• Excellent communication, leadership and problem‑solving skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple design tasks and meet deadlines.

What We Can Offer

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Pension matched by employer up to 7%.
• Option to purchase, sell and carry over annual leave.
• Life assurance, private medical insurance, critical illness insurance and health screening options.
• 26 weeks maternity leave, enhanced paternity and adoption leave, shared parental leave.
• Payment of annual professional institution subscription costs.
• Gym membership discounts UK wide.
• Cycle to work scheme, interest‑free season ticket loans and discounted dining cards.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

A Mott MacDonald Bentley we welcome applications from all sectors of the community. We are dedicated to building a diverse workplace where everyone feels included, has the opportunity to thrive, and is treated with respect. Even if you don’t meet every requirement for this role but are excited about the opportunity, we encourage you to apply. Find out more about our approach to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at https://www.mottmacbentley.co.uk/people. We are committed to ensuring that our recruitment practices are barrier‑free and as inclusive as possible. This includes making adjustments during the job application process and throughout your future career with us. Please call 01756 691572 or email recruitment@jnbentley.co.uk to discuss any such adjustments that we can make. You can read more about our Equal Opportunities Policy here: Equality, diversity and inclusion – Mott MacDonald.

Contact & Application

Location: Manchester, GB
Contract Type: Permanent
Work Pattern: Full Time
Market: Water
Discipline: Mechanical
Job Ref: 12302
Recruiter Contact: lauren.hutchinson@jnbentley.co.uk