Head of Design - Ground Engineering in Chelmsford

Head of Design RADIX | £85,000–£95,000 + 10% bonus We're working exclusively with RADIX to recruit a Head of Design, a key appointment as the business continues to grow and develop its design capability. Working alongside its existing engineering consultants, this is an opportunity to establish and lead the design function, combining hands-on geotechnical and structural engineering with the freedom to shape technical standards, build a team and develop design into a commercial service. RADIX is looking for someone who wants to make a genuine contribution to a growing business, take ownership of an important part of its future and grow with the company. For the right person, there is potential to progress into a wider leadership role, including the possibility of board-level involvement. What the role involves * Designing screw pile foundations for renewable energy, infrastructure and building projects, including geotechnical and structural checks, load testing and durability. * Producing and signing off complete design packages, including calculations, specifications and construction-ready drawings. * Interpreting ground investigation data and load test results to inform design decisions and optimise foundation solutions. * Setting technical standards and developing RADIX's design philosophy, calculation templates, reports and procedures. * Taking the technical lead with clients, their engineers and independent checkers, while supporting site teams with design queries. * Developing the design team, initially working alongside engineering consultants and recruiting additional expertise as the function grows. * Developing design as a commercial service in its own right, including helical pile design for both supply-only and supply-and-install clients. * Working with the Managing Director and leadership team on technical strategy, pricing and opportunities to grow the business across the UK and Europe. What we're looking for * A degree in civil, structural or geotechnical engineering, with typically eight or more years' relevant design experience, including checking the work of others. * Strong geotechnical judgement, including interpreting ground investigation data, selecting design parameters and designing piles to Eurocode 7. * Structural design experience to Eurocode 3, including bolted and welded connections, alongside experience specifying and interpreting pile load tests. * A hands-on approach, with the ability and willingness to produce calculations, design packages and construction drawings personally. * Experience explaining design decisions with clients and independent checkers, supported by clear technical writing skills. * Chartered Engineer status (CEng MICE or MIStructE), or actively working towards chartership with a clear plan. * Experience in piling, foundations, ground engineering or temporary works design would be advantageous. Screw pile or helical pile experience is useful but not essential. * Experience with FEA software such as SolidWorks Simulation, Ansys or similar, particularly in assessing structural components, fabricated products and connections, would be beneficial. * Experience establishing design procedures, technical standards or developing a small team would also be valuable. Above all, RADIX is looking for someone who combines sound engineering judgement with an entrepreneurial mindset. You'll be comfortable getting into the technical detail while also spotting opportunities, taking ownership and helping build something for the long term. RADIX can teach you about their product; they're looking for someone who brings the engineering expertise, initiative and ambition to help shape what comes next. Please apply directly to WE Talent who are managing the application process for this role WE Talent acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment. We are committed to creating inclusive recruitment processes and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds