Section Engineer

We have an exciting opportunity for a Section Engineer to join the UK’s largest and most diverse geotechnical and ground engineering contractor. Working in our Civils Division, you will be responsible for the operational delivery of complete packages of civil engineering works by managing site activities, and ensuring compliance with design specifications, safety standards and project timelines. You will be involved with supporting bids through preconstruction, delivering works on site and managing the handover process at project completion.

What you’ll be doing:

• Be the client facing Van Elle employee on site, ensuring work is delivered safely, on time, and to specification.
• Interpret engineering drawings and specifications to plan and create RAMS / Work package plans / task briefings etc.
• Supervise site engineers, subcontractors, and workforce within your section.
• Ensure quality control and compliance with technical standards.
• Coordinate with design teams, clients, and stakeholders to resolve technical issues.
• Monitor progress and produce accurate reports for site and project management.
• Implement and maintain health, safety, and environmental procedures.
• Support the Construction Manager in managing budgets, resources, and procurement.
• Conduct site surveys, setting out, and checking works.
• Maintain accurate site records including diaries, as-built drawings, and QA documentation.
• Complete quality inspections to ensure work is completed to a safe standard.
• Conduct self in a way that reflects and promotes the Van Elle company values.
• Understand and act in accordance with Van Elle’s policies and procedures.

Who we’re looking for:

• Experience of working with Tier 1 contractors (either as employee or sub contractor) is essential.
• Leadership and Team Management: Ability to lead site teams, delegate tasks, and motivate staff.
• Site Supervision: Experience managing subcontractors, plant, and labour within a defined section of works.
• Problem Solving: Quick thinking and analytical skills to resolve technical and logistical challenges.
• Communication: Clear verbal and written communication with stakeholders, clients, and team members.
• Temporary Works Knowledge: Ability to design, check, and implement temporary structures safely.
• Time Management: Prioritising tasks and managing deadlines under pressure.
• Attention to Detail: Precision in setting out, documentation, and quality control.
• CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme), SMSTS or SSSTS (Site Management/Supervision Safety Training Scheme), Temporary Works Coordinator (CITB).

Other requirements:

• Eligible to work and live in the UK.
• Flexibility to travel across the UK.
• A full driving licence, that is valid in the UK.
• Valid CSCS.

What you’ll get in return:

• Competitive salary depending on experience.
• Hours of work are 8.00am – 5.00pm, Monday to Friday however flexibility is required.
• 25 days holiday plus bank/public holidays.
• Permanent position.
• Benefits include access to Company pension, bonus scheme and Healthcare Cash Plan with family option.
• Onsite Training Centre offers ongoing training and development opportunities.
• Access to our 24-hour confidential employee support line.

About Us: Over the past 40 years, Van Elle has grown to become the UK’s largest independent ground engineering contractor. Van Elle’s unrivalled range of engineering techniques and design services enables our expert engineering teams to develop technically excellent and cost-effective solutions across a wide number of sectors, from housing, construction to rail.