Principal Structural Engineer – Underground Structures

What if you could shape a career as unique as you? At WSP, you can access our global scale, contribute to landmark projects and connect with the brightest minds in your field to do the best work of your life. You can embrace your curiosity in a culture that celebrates new ideas and diverse perspectives.

A little more about your role… We are seeking an experienced Principal Structural Engineer with a proven track record in the design and delivery of underground structures, including tunnels, shafts, and associated works. You will join a diverse team of engineers, scientists, and modellers, contributing to landmark projects across the UK, Ireland, and internationally. Our team values collaboration and diversity of experience, and we offer an integration period to help you familiarise yourself with colleagues and projects.

The Role

• Lead structural design for underground structures such as tunnels, shafts, and related works from concept through detailed design and construction phases.
• Apply advanced structural engineering principles to develop safe, efficient, and innovative solutions for underground projects.
• Ensure compliance with relevant design standards and guidance (e.g., Eurocodes, BS codes, ITA guidelines, and applicable local regulations).
• Undertake and review structural analyses including load assessments, ground-structure interaction modelling, and design of temporary and permanent support systems.
• Collaborate with geotechnical teams to integrate ground behaviour considerations into structural solutions.
• Manage technical delivery of multi-disciplinary projects, coordinating inputs from civil, geotechnical, and environmental teams.
• Provide expert advice on construction methods, structural risk management, and material selection for underground works.
• Conduct site inspections, supervise construction activities, and provide technical input during tunnelling and shaft sinking operations.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to internal training programmes and knowledge-sharing initiatives.
• Support business development through proposal preparation, client engagement, and participation in industry conferences.
• Promote health, safety, and equality in all aspects of work, adhering to company policies and values.

What we will be looking for you to demonstrate

• Degree qualified in Civil or Structural Engineering (postgraduate qualification desirable).
• Extensive experience in structural design for underground shafts and tunnels, including temporary and permanent works.
• Strong understanding of structural behaviour under complex loading conditions and ground-structure interaction.
• Familiarity with tunnelling methods (e.g., TBM, NATM, SCL) and shaft sinking techniques.
• Proficiency in structural analysis software (e.g., STAAD.Pro, MIDAS, Robot, or similar) and integration with geotechnical modelling tools.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and lead multi-disciplinary teams.
• Excellent communication skills and willingness to travel within the UK and internationally.

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.

About Us

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.

WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU?

Work-life balance, inclusivity & belonging, health & wellbeing, flex your time, 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.

#WeAreWSP 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.

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will not be discriminated on the basis of race, colour, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender identity, gender expression, non-protected sexual orientation, injury, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, pregnancy, state, or public service employee.