At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead geotechnical engineering projects and manage complex ground risks for major infrastructure.
- Company: Join Stantec, a global leader in sustainable engineering and environmental services.
- Benefits: Agile working model, commitment to sustainability, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of infrastructure while mentoring the next generation of engineers.
- Qualifications: Chartered Engineer or Geologist with extensive UK consultancy experience.
- Other info: Inclusive culture that values diverse talent and innovative thinking.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 ÂŁ per year.
As we move through 2026, Stantec’s Environmental Services Team is redefining the intersection of engineering and ecology. We are seeking a Principal Geotechnical Engineer to join our growing regional hubs in Warrington, Leeds, and Newcastle. Whether you are based in any of those locations, you will act as a strategic leader, providing technical excellence and shaping the way we manage ground risk across some of the UK’s most critical infrastructure programmes.
This is a pivotal moment to join our leadership team. With the AMP8 investment cycle at its peak, you will provide strategic oversight for our work with major clients across the country, including United Utilities, Yorkshire Water, and Northumbrian Water. As a Principal, you will be the key interface between our multidisciplinary design teams and our clients, ensuring that geotechnical innovation—including nature‑based solutions and digital twin integration—is embedded at the start of every project lifecycle.
You will be responsible for technical quality, project commerciality, and the mentoring of our rising engineers. At Stantec, we offer a truly agile working model that prioritises your work‑life blend, set within a culture globally recognised for its commitment to sustainability and inclusive growth.
The key focus of this position is to provide high‑level technical direction and specialist input across a diverse regional portfolio. Your role will involve:
- Responsibilities
- Strategic Advisory: Managing complex geotechnical risks for high‑profile infrastructure projects from feasibility through to construction.
- Technical Governance: Overseeing the preparation and approval of interpretative geotechnical reports and the design/analysis of sophisticated geotechnical structures.
- Team & Talent Development: Mentoring Senior and Graduate engineers across our hubs, fostering a culture of technical excellence and innovative thinking.
- Business Development: Supporting our strategic growth by identifying new opportunities and building lasting relationships with key stakeholders and joint venture partners in the Northern markets.
About You
You are an industry‑recognised professional with a deep passion for geotechnical engineering and a desire to challenge the status quo. You hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Geotechnical Engineering, Geology, or a related discipline and are a Chartered Engineer (CEng) or Geologist (CGeol) with a relevant institution such as the ICE or the Geological Society.
With extensive experience in the UK consultancy environment, you possess a masterly understanding of ground investigation design, data acquisition, and complex interpretative reporting. Most importantly, you are a collaborative leader who can translate intricate technical challenges into clear, actionable strategies for our clients. You thrive on delivering quality solutions that not only meet engineering requirements but also provide lasting environmental and community benefits in 2026 and beyond.
Principal Geotechnical Engineer - Water Sector in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: Stantec
Contact Detail:
Stantec Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Geotechnical Engineer - Water Sector in Newcastle upon Tyne
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, especially those who work at Stantec or similar firms. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info on job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Stantec’s projects and values. Show how your experience aligns with their mission, especially in geotechnical engineering and sustainability. Tailor your answers to reflect their focus on innovation and community benefits.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just wait for job postings—be proactive! Visit our website regularly and apply directly. Express your enthusiasm for the role and how you can contribute to the team’s success in managing ground risks.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews with a thank-you note. Mention specific points from your conversation that excited you about the role. This shows your genuine interest and keeps you fresh in their minds!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Geotechnical Engineer - Water Sector in Newcastle upon Tyne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the Principal Geotechnical Engineer role. Highlight your technical expertise in geotechnical engineering and any relevant projects you've worked on, especially those involving complex ground risks.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about geotechnical engineering and how you can contribute to our team. Mention your leadership experience and how you’ve mentored others in the field.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use quantifiable results to demonstrate how you’ve made an impact in previous roles, particularly in managing high-profile infrastructure projects or innovative solutions.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of success. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Stantec
✨Know Your Geotechnical Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends in geotechnical engineering, especially related to water infrastructure. Be ready to discuss your experience with ground investigation design and complex interpretative reporting, as these are key areas for the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Engineer, you'll be expected to mentor others and lead teams. Prepare examples of how you've successfully guided junior engineers or managed multidisciplinary teams in past projects. Highlight your collaborative approach and ability to translate technical challenges into actionable strategies.
✨Understand Stantec's Values
Familiarise yourself with Stantec’s commitment to sustainability and inclusive growth. Be prepared to discuss how your values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their mission of delivering lasting environmental benefits through innovative geotechnical solutions.
✨Prepare for Business Development Questions
Since business development is part of the role, think about how you've identified new opportunities in previous positions. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've built relationships with clients or stakeholders, particularly in the Northern markets.