Senior Design Engineer (2 Year FTC) in Tilbury

As part of Bouygues Construction's Public Works division, VSL International participates in the construction of major technical structures and guarantees their structural safety and durability: transport infrastructure (bridges, tunnels), industrial and energy production structures, and commercial buildings.

VSL's business is based on four areas of expertise:

• Structural systems and technologies
• Civil engineering
• Foundations and soil engineering
• Preservation, structural repairs, renovation and optimization of structures

VSL has 4,000 employees at 25 locations worldwide (Asia and Oceania, Middle East, Europe, Latin America, Canada).

The Lower Thames Crossing is one of the UK’s most significant infrastructure programmes, linking Kent and Essex via the longest road tunnel in the country. Delivered within a collaborative alliance environment, the project involves complex enabling works, geotechnical operations, deep foundations, soil mixing, retaining structures, and large-scale civil engineering activities essential to the successful delivery of the scheme. VSL UK is supporting the delivery of specialist ground engineering solutions including cutter soil mixing, diaphragm walls, piling works, and associated geotechnical construction activities. These works form a critical part of the enabling infrastructure required to support one of the UK’s most ambitious transport projects. This technically demanding infrastructure programme combines innovative engineering design, complex construction methodologies, and multidisciplinary collaboration within a major infrastructure environment.

We are seeking a Senior Design Engineer to deliver foundation design solutions for both temporary and permanent works across major infrastructure and private sector projects. The role is responsible for producing technically robust and commercially viable designs, supporting tendering and production teams, and ensuring safe and effective implementation on site. The Senior Design Engineer will contribute to technical excellence by coordinating with internal and external stakeholders, supporting budgeting activities, and assisting in the successful delivery of foundation and geotechnical engineering solutions.

Main Responsibilities

• Design & Technical Delivery: Carry out foundation design works for temporary and permanent structures, reporting to the Design or Deputy Design Manager. Deliver designs for excavation and lateral support systems, ground improvement works, and piling solutions. Produce calculations, drawings, and technical documentation in accordance with project specifications and relevant standards. Utilise specialist geotechnical and structural software to develop safe and efficient engineering solutions.
• Project Support & Implementation: Assist Production and Tendering teams in the preparation of Method Documents and Method Statements. Provide technical support to site teams to ensure works are successfully implemented. Contribute to value engineering and buildability reviews during pre-construction and delivery phases.
• Coordination & Stakeholder Engagement: Coordinate and liaise with clients, contractors, consultants, and government bodies. Support senior engineers and managers in technical discussions and project meetings. Ensure compliance with project requirements and industry standards.
• Commercial & Resource Support: Assist senior team members with budgeting, forecasting, and resource allocation. Support efficient use of engineering resources and contribute to programme planning.

Candidate Profile

• Education & Experience: Degree in Civil, Structural, or Geotechnical Engineering. 5 to 8 years of relevant experience in the design and construction of foundation works. Experience in geotechnical, reinforced concrete, and steel member design. Chartered status or working towards chartership preferred but not essential.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in specialist geotechnical and structural software such as Plaxis 2D and 3D, Oasys AdSec, Geostudio, Oasys Frew or Wallap, SAFE, or similar. Competent in AutoCAD and Microsoft Office applications including Excel, Word, and Outlook. Knowledge of programming languages and previous exposure to BIM desirable.
• Personal Attributes: Strong interpersonal and communication skills. Highly motivated with a willingness to learn and develop. Ability to work independently and take ownership of technical deliverables.

VSL/Bouygues Construction is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse working environment where everyone is treated fairly and with respect. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. A copy of our Equal Opportunities Policy is available upon request.