At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting infrastructure projects in highways and drainage design.
- Company: Join a respected UK civil and structural consultancy with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, hybrid working, and generous annual leave.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while mentoring junior engineers and advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in highways and drainage design, proficient in Civil 3D and MicroDrainage.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with clear career progression and strong social engagement.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
We’re supporting a long‑established, multi‑disciplinary engineering consultancy in Leeds with the appointment of a Principal / Senior Civil Engineer to join their growing Infrastructure team. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced civil engineer looking to take ownership of projects, mentor junior staff, and play a key technical role within a highly respected consultancy.
The Role
- You will work across a wide range of development infrastructure schemes, taking responsibility for the design, delivery and coordination of:
- Highways and junction design, access strategies and estate roads
- Drainage design, including SuDS, surface water and foul networks
- Section 278, 38, 104 and 106 design and submission work
- Earthworks, levels design and cut/fill assessments
- Technical reports, strategy documents and design calculations
- Leading and supporting design teams on medium to large‑scale developments
- Liaising with clients, architects, local authorities and external stakeholders
- Contributing to internal QA processes and technical leadership across the team
About the Consultancy
- Strong technical delivery across civil and structural engineering
- A collaborative, people‑focused culture with a national reputation
- Modern digital design environment using Civil 3D, MicroDrainage / InfoDrainage and BIM workflows
- A broad project portfolio including residential, commercial, education, mixed‑use and urban regeneration
- Clear career progression for Senior and Principal Engineers, including support toward technical specialism or line leadership
What We’re Looking For
- Background as a Senior or Principal Civil Engineer in UK consultancy
- Strong experience in both highways and drainage design
- Proficient in Civil 3D and MicroDrainage / InfoDrainage
- Strong understanding of UK standards (DMRB, MfS, SuDS guidance, Building Regulations, DCG etc.)
- Experience leading design packages and reviewing work of junior staff
- Comfortable engaging with clients and managing multiple workstreams
- Working toward or already chartered (ICE / CIHT)
Salary & Benefits
- £50,000 – £60,000 depending on experience
- 25+ days annual leave + bank holidays
- Hybrid working options (varies by team)
- Pension scheme
- Private healthcare options
- Professional membership fees paid
- Full chartership support (mentorship, training and structured pathways)
- Flexible working arrangements
- Regular CPD sessions and internal technical development
- Friendly, supportive office culture with strong social engagement
Principal / Senior Engineer – Highways & Drainage in Leeds employer: RGB London
Contact Detail:
RGB London Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal / Senior Engineer – Highways & Drainage in Leeds
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend local engineering meetups or conferences, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have a lead on that Principal/Senior Engineer role you’re after.
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your experience with Civil 3D and MicroDrainage. Share specific examples of projects you've led or contributed to, especially in highways and drainage design. This will help you stand out!
✨Follow Up After Interviews
After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a simple gesture that shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great way to reiterate your interest in the position.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply through our website for the best chance at landing that dream job! We love seeing applications directly from candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team. It shows initiative and commitment!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal / Senior Engineer – Highways & Drainage in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that match the Principal/Senior Engineer role. Highlight your highways and drainage design experience, and don’t forget to mention your proficiency in Civil 3D and MicroDrainage!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for our team. Share your passion for civil engineering and how you can contribute to our collaborative culture.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Since this role involves mentoring junior staff and leading design teams, make sure to highlight any relevant leadership experiences. We want to see how you’ve successfully managed projects and supported your colleagues.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates during the process!
How to prepare for a job interview at RGB London
✨Know Your Technical Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of highways and drainage design. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on, especially those involving Civil 3D and MicroDrainage. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the tools but can also apply them effectively.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since the role involves mentoring junior staff and leading design teams, prepare examples of how you've successfully led projects or supported team members in the past. Highlight your ability to manage multiple workstreams and engage with clients.
✨Understand the Consultancy's Culture
Research the consultancy’s values and culture. They pride themselves on a collaborative environment, so be ready to discuss how you work well in teams and contribute to a positive workplace. Mention any experiences that align with their people-focused approach.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about their projects, team dynamics, and career progression opportunities. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.