Principal Mechanical Engineer
Working Location Manchester, UK Permanent position
We are seeking an experienced Principal Mechanical Engineer to take a leading role in delivering multidisciplinary engineering design across the water sector. This is a senior position suited to a mechanically biased Chartered (or near Chartered) Engineer who combines strong technical expertise with the ability to lead design solutions, guide engineers and influence project outcomes. You will play a key role in ensuring mechanical designs are safe, efficient, fully integrated and delivered to a high standard, while supporting the development of the wider engineering team.
The Role
As a Principal Mechanical Engineer, you will provide technical leadership across projects, taking ownership of mechanical design delivery and supporting multidisciplinary coordination.
Key Responsibilities – Leading the development of practical, efficient and buildable mechanical design solutions – Reviewing and approving design deliverables, calculations, reports and specifications – Providing technical guidance and oversight across projects and supporting tender submissions – Acting as Design Lead on projects where required, ensuring coordination across disciplines – Directing and mentoring engineers, CAD technicians and graduates – Preparing scopes for, and reviewing outputs from, subcontract M&E design teams – Liaising with equipment suppliers and manufacturers to support design development – Ensuring designs comply with relevant technical standards, professional guidance and client requirements – Managing and recording design changes within project documentation – Supporting resource planning and estimating design effort – Attending and leading design reviews, client meetings and technical discussions – Contributing to the continuous improvement of engineering standards and design practices
About You
We are looking for a highly capable mechanical engineer with strong experience in the water sector and a track record of delivering robust engineering solutions.
Requirements
Essential – Extensive mechanical design experience within the water industry (typically 8-12+ years) – Strong experience in hydraulic design – Degree or HND in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline – Strong IT and digital design capability – Experience working within multidisciplinary engineering teams – Ability to lead design delivery and support junior engineers – Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle
Desirable – Chartered Engineer status – Experience with electrical and control systems – Experience across clean water and wastewater projects – Awareness of construction methods and materials – Knowledge of engineering drawing practices…