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- Tasks: Lead the design and delivery of innovative mine headframes and hoisting infrastructure.
- Company: Join WSP, a global leader in engineering with a focus on collaboration and growth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunities for professional development, and a diverse work environment.
- Why this job: Shape landmark projects and make a real impact across Europe and Africa.
- Qualifications: 10-15 years in structural design; degree in Civil/Structural/Mechanical Engineering required.
- Other info: Embrace a culture of innovation and sustainability while building your legacy.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 ÂŁ per year.
What if you could shape a career as unique as you? At WSP, you can always find opportunities to grow and do what matters to you. Make the most of our global reach to discover new challenges and chances to work with diverse, talented individuals who will help you expand your horizons.
A little more about your role… We are seeking an experienced Headframe Engineer (Principal level) with a proven track record in the design and delivery of mine headframes and associated hoisting infrastructure for deep shafts and production/service winders. You will embed into active projects and take a lead role in building a specialist team and developing a sustainable headframe/hoisting workstream across Europe and Africa. The role spans concept through detailed design and construction support, with a strong focus on static and dynamic load modelling, structural integrity, and constructability. Our team values collaboration and diversity of experience, and we offer an integration period to help you familiarise yourself with colleagues, workflows, and projects.
The Role
- Project Delivery & Design Leadership
- Lead structural design for headframes, back legs, and collar‑level structures from concept through detailed design and construction phases.
- Apply advanced structural engineering principles to develop safe, efficient, and innovative solutions addressing static, dynamic, fatigue, wind, seismic, and operational hoisting loads (including fleet angle and rope dynamics).
- Ensure compliance with relevant international and local standards, applicable mining regulations, and industry guidance for hoisting and shaft infrastructure.
- Undertake and review analyses, including load assessments, hoist/rope–sheave layouts, skip dump arrangements, ground–structure interaction, and temporary/permanent works design.
- Integrate interfaces across the hoisting system: ore bins, conveyors, hoist houses, foundations, collar houses, and conveyance clearances—producing clear GA drawings, 3D models, clearance diagrams, and installation sections.
- Build & Grow the Practice
- Recruit, mentor, and develop a high‑performing headframe/hoisting team; establish skills matrices, training plans, and technical governance.
- Define and own the workstream strategy for Europe and Africa, including capability roadmaps, preferred suppliers/fabricators, and delivery models (e.g., modularisation/offsite assembly).
- Implement quality assurance and design review processes; champion innovation and knowledge sharing.
- Client, Market & Commercial
- Support and lead business development: identify opportunities, shape pursuit strategies, write proposals, and present to clients.
- Build enduring relationships with owners, EPC/EPCM partners, hoist OEMs, steel fabricators, and regional delivery partners.
- Manage scope, programme, risk, and budgets, working closely with project managers to achieve commercial targets.
- Site & Construction Support
- Conduct site inspections; supervise headframe erection and commissioning; provide technical input during shaft sinking and conversion to production.
- Promote health, safety, equality, and sustainability in all aspects of work, adhering to company policies and values.
Qualifications and Success Criteria
- Degree‑qualified in Civil/Structural/Mechanical Engineering (postgraduate qualification desirable).
- 10–15 years’ experience in the structural design of mine headframes/hoisting infrastructure, including temporary and permanent works.
- Strong understanding of structural behaviour under complex loading: dynamic hoist loads, fatigue, wind/seismic, impact, vibration; familiarity with ground–structure interaction for headgear foundations and back legs.
- Proficiency in structural analysis/modelling tools (e.g., STAAD.Pro, SAP2000, MIDAS, Robotor similar) and confident coordination with geotechnical/numerical models.
- Demonstrated ability to lead multi‑disciplinary teams and grow capability (hiring, coaching, resource planning).
- Excellent communication skills and willingness to travel within the UK and internationally (Europe and Africa).
- Experience engaging with hoist OEMs and regional supply chains; additional languages (e.g., French/Portuguese) are an advantage.
If you don’t meet all that we are looking for please still consider applying. Not everyone will meet all the requirements, but you might have skills we didn’t know we need. Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all. Work on landmark projects around the world and embrace opportunities to make an even bigger impact in the communities you care about. What if you could do the best work of your life and create a legacy for yourself? With us, you can. Apply today.
Principal Headframe Engineer employer: WSP Global Inc.
Contact Detail:
WSP Global Inc. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Headframe Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry professionals on LinkedIn or attend relevant events. Building connections can lead to job opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Prepare a portfolio that highlights your past projects and achievements in headframe engineering. This will give potential employers a clear picture of what you bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your interview skills! Get a friend to do mock interviews with you, focusing on technical questions related to structural design and project management. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll perform.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who take the initiative. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets into the right hands.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Headframe Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that match the Principal Headframe Engineer role. Highlight your expertise in structural design and any relevant projects you've led, as this will show us you're the right fit for our team.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you’re passionate about this role and how your background aligns with our values. Share specific examples of your achievements in headframe design and project delivery to grab our attention!
Showcase Your Team Spirit: Since we value collaboration, mention any experiences where you've successfully led or mentored teams. We want to see how you can contribute to building a high-performing headframe/hoisting team with us.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at WSP Global Inc.
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of structural engineering principles, especially those related to headframes and hoisting infrastructure. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on, focusing on the challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves leading a team, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully managed multi-disciplinary teams in the past. Highlight your experience in mentoring and developing talent, as well as any strategies you've implemented to enhance team performance.
✨Understand the Market
Familiarise yourself with the current trends and challenges in the mining industry, particularly in Europe and Africa. Being able to discuss market dynamics and how they impact project delivery will show that you're not just technically proficient but also commercially aware.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company's projects, culture, and future direction. This not only demonstrates your interest in the role but also gives you a chance to assess if the company aligns with your career goals and values.