Associate Director Mechanical Engineer

Company: Atkins Global

Location: Belfast

Posted: May 12th, 2026

Shape the Future of our cities and environments.


Join AtkinsRéalis


As a key member of our team, you\'ll play a vital role in delivering transformational programmes for critical UK infrastructure, with opportunities to work on landmark engineering projects both domestically and internationally. We\'re committed to providing industry-leading solutions throughout the project lifecycle, adding value through client-side and construction-phase support.


Become part of a team where every voice matters, and together we can tackle our clients\' toughest challenges. We foster a diverse and inclusive environment where world-class talent thrives without boundaries. For us, collaboration isn\'t a buzzword. We value the different perspectives our people bring and recognise everyone for their contributions equally. We also know that different people have different priorities, which is why we\'re here to support you with whatever you need.


We offer hybrid working which involves 3 days per week being office/site based. This position is based in our Belfast, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, Manchester or Newcastle offices.


The role will offer a challenging and rewarding opportunity to apply knowledge, experience, and problem-solving skills whilst providing good opportunities for career development.


As an Associate Director Mechanical Engineer in the D&AT practice, the successful candidate would have the following responsibilities:


  • Lead a team of Mechanical engineers for delivery of technical design work on complex multi-disciplinary projects following relevant national and project specific design codes and standards, and to high-quality levels in areas such as pumping systems and water & wastewater treatment design.

  • Lead on the development of project design deliverables for Mechanical aspects of complex multi-disciplinary projects and work with the project management team to successfully manage time and budgets to key project milestones and programmes.

  • Responsible for managing production, reviewing, and approving technical deliverables such as design reports, drawings, calculations, and scopes of work.

  • Provide Technical Leadership within discipline for the regional and national D&AT practice and influence D&AT Practice wide initiatives and recommend best practices to improve internal process and services.

  • Grow, develop, and manage the Mechanical Engineering capabilities within the regional and/or nationally practice.

  • Work independently with guidance in only the most challenging situations. Exercise personal judgement to solve difficult problems where appropriate and provide guidance to junior team members.

  • Advise client, operational, project, or service activities within project teams and wider D&AT Practice initiatives.

  • Manage or collaborate on technical aspects of bid proposals.

  • Work closely with a multi-disciplinary team in the UK and overseas to deliver integrated design solutions.

    • About You


  • A degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.

  • Chartered Mechanical Engineer.

  • Proven experience in leading large-scale Mechanical engineering design delivery for a design consultancy including within a multi-disciplinary environment.

  • Takes broad perspective to identify innovative solutions, challenges the status quo.

  • The role requires comprehensive knowledge and proven practical experience in the design integration of a wide range of mechanical equipment, including pumps, blowers, screens, and chemical dosing systems. Additionally, it demands a thorough understanding of current UK design standards, relevant legislation, and established industry practices.

  • Demonstrates exemplary communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts clearly and effectively to diverse stakeholders.

  • Expert knowledge of current design codes and standards as well as industry best practices including a strong understanding of legislation such as CDM and DSEAR.

  • Proficiency in applicable analytical software and related tools.

  • Experience in Water market is essential.

  • A proactive, highly motivated mindset with a collaborative approach to drive teamwork and shared success across projects and the wider AtkinsRéalis D&AT practice.

  • Comfortable liaising with stakeholders at all levels both internally and externally.

    • Meet some but not all of the criteria? We\'d still love to hear from you! Please submit your CV along with a cover letter letting us know your motivation for applying and highlighting how your skills and experience align with the role.


    Explore the rewards and benefits that help you thrive at every stage of your life and your career. Enjoy competitive salaries, employee rewards and a brilliant range of benefits you can tailor to suit your own health, wellbeing, financial and lifestyle choices. Make the most of a myriad of opportunities for training and professional development to grow your skills and expertise. And combine our hybrid working culture and flexible holiday allowances to balance a great job and fulfilling personal life.


    Be rewarded. Find out more.


    We\'re AtkinsRéalis, a world-class engineering services and nuclear organization. We connect people, data and technology to transform the world\'s infrastructure and energy systems. Together, with our industry partners and clients, and our global team of consultants, designers, engineers and project managers, we can change the world. We\'re committed to leading our clients across our various end markets to engineer a better future for our planet and its people.


    Find out more.


    Security clearance


    We are committed to creating a culture where everyone feels that they belong - a place where we can all be ourselves, thrive and develop to be the best we can be. So, we offer a range of family friendly, inclusive employment policies, flexible working arrangements and employee resource groups to support all employees. As an Equal Opportunities Employer, we value applications from all backgrounds, cultures and ability.


    #J-18808-Ljbffr


    WHJS1_NI

    Apply Now