At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and delivery of innovative hoisting systems for mining projects.
- Company: Join WSP, a global leader in engineering with a focus on collaboration and growth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunities for travel, and a chance to shape your career.
- Other info: Embrace a diverse team culture and enjoy excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on landmark projects across Europe and Africa.
- Qualifications: Degree in Engineering with 10-15 years of relevant experience.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ 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 Hoisting System and 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.
- 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.
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 Hoisting System and Headframe Engineer in London employer: WSP
WSP is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Leeds that fosters professional growth and development through initiatives like the Land Academy. With a strong emphasis on hybrid working arrangements, employees enjoy a healthy work-life balance while engaging in meaningful projects that shape urban and rural landscapes across the UK and Ireland.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Hoisting System and Headframe Engineer in London
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Principal Hoisting System and Headframe Engineer role you’re after at WSP.
✨Show Off Your Projects!
Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at WSP a taste of what you can bring to the table!
✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at WSP.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Principal Hoisting System and Headframe Engineer at WSP, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Hoisting System and Headframe Engineer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Principal Hoisting System and Headframe Engineer, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at WSP a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to WSP specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at WSP
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with WSP, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like WSP want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
