At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and delivery of innovative mine headframes across Europe and Africa.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking engineering firm committed to sustainability and safety.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and opportunities for international travel.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace that values innovation and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the mining industry while leading a talented team.
- Qualifications: Degree in Engineering with 10-15 years of relevant experience required.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 € per year.
Lead the design and delivery of mine headframes and hoisting infrastructure across Europe and Africa, from concept through detailed design and construction support.
Responsibilities
- 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.
- Ensure compliance with international and local standards, 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, 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.
- 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 in Civil, Structural or Mechanical Engineering (postgraduate qualification desirable).
- 10–15 years of experience in the structural design of mine headframes/hoisting infrastructure.
- 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 such as STAAD.Pro, SAP2000, MIDAS, Robot or similar, and 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 in 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.
We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, religion, or belief. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and encourage applicants who require workplace adjustments to let us know.
Principal Headframe Engineer in London employer: Wsp In The Uk & Ireland
As a Principal Headframe Engineer, you will join a forward-thinking company that prioritises innovation and excellence in the mining sector across Europe and Africa. Our collaborative work culture fosters professional growth through mentorship and training, while our commitment to health, safety, and sustainability ensures a rewarding and meaningful work environment. With opportunities for international travel and engagement with diverse teams, we offer a unique platform for you to make a significant impact in the industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Headframe Engineer in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or at events. A personal connection can often get your foot in the door faster than a CV.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in what they do and how you can contribute.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain your experience and how it aligns with their needs. Keep it concise but impactful—think of it as your personal brand statement.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Headframe Engineer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Principal Headframe Engineer role. Highlight your experience in structural design and project delivery, and don’t forget to mention any relevant software skills like STAAD.Pro or SAP2000.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about headframe engineering and how your background aligns with our needs. Be sure to mention your leadership experience and ability to mentor teams.
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your expertise in hoisting infrastructure. Use numbers and examples to illustrate how you’ve successfully managed projects or improved processes.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s super easy, and you’ll be able to upload all your documents in one go. Plus, we love seeing applications come directly from our site!
How to prepare for a job interview at Wsp In The Uk & Ireland
✨Know Your Engineering Fundamentals
Brush up on your structural engineering principles, especially those related to hoisting infrastructure. Be ready to discuss how you would apply these principles to real-world scenarios, like addressing dynamic loads or ensuring compliance with local regulations.
✨Showcase Your Project Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of past projects where you led a team or managed complex designs. Highlight your experience in mentoring and developing talent, as well as how you’ve successfully integrated multi-disciplinary teams in your previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Your Technical Proficiency
Familiarise yourself with the structural analysis tools mentioned in the job description, such as STAAD.Pro or SAP2000. Be prepared to discuss how you've used these tools in your work and any innovative solutions you've developed using them.
✨Build Rapport with the Interviewers
Engage with your interviewers by asking insightful questions about their projects and challenges. This not only shows your interest but also helps you build connections that could be beneficial for future collaborations.
