At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team in delivering diverse civil engineering projects across Orkney.
- Company: Join the smallest council in the UK with a broad range of responsibilities.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and relocation expenses covered.
- Other info: Great career growth opportunities and a chance to work on exciting projects.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on vital infrastructure while enjoying a dynamic work environment.
- Qualifications: Must have relevant engineering qualifications and experience.
The predicted salary is between 52361 - 55390 £ per year.
Lead Engineer (Structures) Council Offices, Kirkwall
35 hours per week Permanent £52,361 – £55,390 £28.69 – £30.35 per hour
The above amounts include Distant Islands Allowance.
You will be reporting to the Service Manager Engineering. Your working pattern is 0900-1700 Monday to Friday, however flexibility will be required to meet service demands. We are happy to talk flexible working, where possible.
The purpose of this role is to lead the Structures Team in providing a broad range of professional Civil/Structural Engineering Services.
The Lead Engineer (Structures) will plan, manage and deliver a wide range of engineering projects and commissions making the best use of available financial and staff resources and ensuring programme, customer care, budgetary control, specification, project timeliness and safety requirements are met.
Whilst the Council is the smallest in the United Kingdom, its roles and responsibilities and the range of its infrastructure is broad, hence the engineering team draws enormous satisfaction from the diversity and intensity of its work. You will lead a small engineering team responsible for designing and delivering civil engineering projects including piers and harbour improvements funded by capital and revenue, coastal protection, flood prevention works, bridges and building structures.
The necessary qualification, experience and skills required for this role are detailed in the ‘must have’ section of the attached job profile. These criteria are used for decisions on shortlisting and appointment of applicants.
You must be able to travel efficiently and effectively between various work locations within Orkney including the outer islands.
This post requires a Level 1 Disclosure check.
Interview expenses are payable for this post. Please note interview and relocation expenses will be paid for this post, in accordance with Council Policy.
Applications close at 23:59 on Sunday 21 June 2026 with shortlisting taking place week commencing 22 June 2026 and interviews are scheduled for week commencing 13 July 2026.
For a discussion about the role, contact David Custer at david.custer@orkney.gov.uk or on 01856 873535 extension 2328.
For information on applying and our recruitment process, we would welcome your feedback on our recruitment process.
Lead Engineer (Structures) - ORK10403 in Orkney employer: Orkney Islands Council
As a Lead Engineer (Structures) with the Orkney Islands Council, you will be part of a dedicated team that thrives on the diversity and intensity of engineering projects in one of the UK's most unique locations. The Council offers a supportive work culture with flexible working options, competitive salaries including a Distant Islands Allowance, and opportunities for professional growth while making a tangible impact on local infrastructure. With relocation expenses covered and a commitment to employee well-being, this role provides a rewarding career path in a picturesque setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Engineer (Structures) - ORK10403 in Orkney
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the engineering field, especially those who might know someone at the Council. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the Council's recent projects and challenges. Show us you’re genuinely interested in their work and how you can contribute to their team. Tailor your examples to highlight your relevant experience!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get a friend or mentor to do a mock interview with you. This will help you get comfortable with articulating your thoughts and experiences clearly, which is key when discussing your leadership skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about the role and keen to be part of the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Engineer (Structures) - ORK10403 in Orkney
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight how your skills and experience align with the Lead Engineer (Structures) role. We want to see how you can contribute to our diverse engineering projects!
Showcase Your Experience:Don’t just list your previous jobs; tell us about specific projects you've led or been a part of. We love hearing about your achievements, especially in civil and structural engineering, so make it count!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your key points stand out. This helps us quickly see why you’re a great fit for the team!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and gives you a chance to explore more about us and the role!
How to prepare for a job interview at Orkney Islands Council
✨Know Your Engineering Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your civil and structural engineering knowledge. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on, especially those related to piers, bridges, and coastal protection. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but have practical experience too.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
As a Lead Engineer, you'll be managing a team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led projects or teams in the past. Highlight your ability to manage resources effectively and ensure project timelines are met, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Flexibility is Key
Since the job requires flexibility in working hours and locations, be prepared to discuss how you can adapt to changing demands. Share any experiences where you had to adjust your plans to meet project needs or client expectations.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the current projects the Structures Team is working on or the challenges they face. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand if it’s the right fit for you.
