Principal Headframe Engineer in Leeds

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.

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.

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., modularization/offsite assembly). Implement quality assurance and design review processes; champion innovation and knowledge sharing.

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.

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.

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, Robot or 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.

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?

We are one of the world’s leading engineering and professional services firms. Our 72,800 passionate people are united by the common purpose of creating positive, long-lasting impacts on the communities we serve through a culture of innovation, integrity, and inclusion. With over 9,000 professionals across the UK and Ireland, we are dedicated to our local communities and propelled by international brainpower.

Work-life balance At WSP, we understand that work is just one aspect of your life. It’s important to make time for you, your family, friends, interests and your community. Our hybrid working policy offers the flexibility to work from home two days a week, while also providing opportunities to collaborate in our modern offices across the UK.

Inclusivity & Belonging We welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and experiences. We enable rewarding careers by encouraging people to bring their whole and authentic selves to work so that our work represents the fullest spectrum of society. We celebrate integrity and treat people with respect, supporting each other and embracing a culture of inclusion and belonging at WSP.

Health & Wellbeing We are committed to supporting our people, giving you the tools to make improvements to your health and wellbeing through our Thrive programme. Our Virtual GP service gives you access to an NHS or Irish Medical Council GP at a time and place that suits you – giving you peace of mind and quick access to medical advice when you need it most. We also provide reasonable workplace adjustments for those in need. Additionally, you can benefit from the Gymflex scheme, which offers up to 40% off annual gym memberships through our WSP flexible benefits programme, as well as a comprehensive menopause support package.

Flex your time To enhance work-life balance, WSP offers the “WSP My Hour,” allowing you to take one hour each day for personal activities, with the flexibility to make up the time earlier or later that day. We also provide part-time and flexible working arrangements, the option to purchase additional leave, and the ability to use your bank holiday entitlement to suit you.

Your development We understand the importance of development and training to you. That’s why we foster a supportive environment that invests in your growth, whether through training, mentoring, or Chartership. Here at WSP we positively encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy or maternity/paternity. As a Disability Confident leader, we will interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria, please let us know if you require any workplace adjustments in support of your application.