At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead highway works for new developments and ensure compliance with standards.
- Company: West Northamptonshire Council, committed to diversity and community growth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Join a diverse team focused on equality and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable infrastructure in your community.
- Qualifications: Strong expertise in highways management and experience with complex schemes.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 € per year.
We are seeking an experienced and motivated Principal Highways Engineer to join our Highways Development Management team at West Northamptonshire Council. This senior role leads the assessment, negotiation and delivery of highway works linked to new developments, focusing on Section 38 and Section 278 agreements, design reviews and the adoption of new infrastructure into the public highway network. Knowledge of the planning process is highly beneficial, as you may assist colleagues in responding to planning applications from a highways perspective. You will take highway agreements through the full lifecycle – from pre‑application advice and technical review of designs, through approval, construction oversight, inspection and final adoption – scrutinising detailed submissions to ensure they meet required standards, protect the council’s interests and ensure long‑term maintainable assets for the public.
Responsibilities
- Demonstrate a strong understanding of highways engineering principles, standards and design guidance.
- Manage and progress highway agreements through the full lifecycle – from initial negotiation and technical approval to inspection and adoption.
- Provide clear, pragmatic technical advice on development proposals and infrastructure design.
- Build effective relationships with developers, consultants, contractors and internal colleagues, negotiating positive outcomes for the council and the community.
- Communicate confidently and professionally, both in writing and verbally.
- Mentor and support junior colleagues, helping to develop the wider team’s skills and capability.
- Apply knowledge of the planning process to assist with highways input into planning applications and related discussions.
- Proactively balance technical detail with the broader goal of supporting sustainable growth across West Northamptonshire.
Qualifications
- Strong technical expertise in highways development management, highway agreements (S38/S278), design reviews and the adoption process, with demonstrable experience leading complex schemes.
Equal Opportunity Statement
We are committed to ensuring diversity, equality, equity and inclusion is woven into the fabric of WNC and everything we do. We are a disability confident employer, a member of the Armed Forces Covenant and a Care Leaver Covenant partner.
Principal Adoptions Engineer in Northampton employer: West Northants Council
West Northamptonshire Council is an exceptional employer that prioritises professional growth and community impact. With a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, employees benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages collaboration and mentorship, particularly for junior colleagues. Located in a vibrant area, the council offers unique opportunities to engage in meaningful projects that shape sustainable development while ensuring long-term maintainable assets for the public.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Adoptions Engineer in Northampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the highways engineering field on LinkedIn or at industry events. Building connections can lead to job opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and understanding of highway agreements. We recommend practising common interview questions and scenarios related to Section 38 and Section 278 agreements to showcase your expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance of landing that Principal Adoptions Engineer role. We love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Adoptions Engineer in Northampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience with highways engineering principles and the specific responsibilities mentioned in the job description. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:Don’t hold back on showcasing your knowledge of highway agreements, design reviews, and the adoption process. We’re keen to see how you’ve led complex schemes in the past, so give us the details!
Communicate Clearly:Since communication is key in this role, ensure your written application is clear and professional. We appreciate a well-structured application that reflects your ability to convey technical advice effectively.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of it, plus you’ll find all the info you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at West Northants Council
✨Know Your Highways Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of highways engineering principles, standards, and design guidance. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past experience that demonstrate your expertise in managing highway agreements and navigating the adoption process.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare to talk about your experience in negotiating Section 38 and Section 278 agreements. Think of a few scenarios where you successfully navigated complex negotiations, and be ready to explain how you achieved positive outcomes for both the council and the community.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly, both verbally and in writing. You might be asked to provide technical advice or respond to planning applications, so being able to communicate complex information in an understandable way is key.
✨Demonstrate Leadership and Mentorship
Be prepared to discuss how you've mentored junior colleagues in the past. Highlight your approach to developing team skills and capabilities, as this role involves supporting others and fostering a collaborative environment.
