Mechanical Project Engineer - Water
Location: Tonbridge
Salary: Up to £55,000 per annum + benefits
 
Join a leading Tier One contractor delivering critical clean water infrastructure projects for South East Water. This is an exciting opportunity to support the mechanical delivery of clean water treatment and network schemes across the South East, working closely with project, construction, and design teams on essential upgrade and resilience programmes.
 
Whether you are an established Mechanical Project Engineer or a Mechanical Engineer ready to step into a project delivery role, this position offers long-term stability, excellent career progression, and structured professional development within one of the UK's most stable engineering sectors.
 
Why this role stands out
 
As a Mechanical Project Engineer, you will contribute directly to South East Water's capital programme, supporting the safe and efficient delivery of clean water treatment upgrades, pumping station improvements, and network optimisation projects. You'll gain exposure across design coordination, procurement, programme delivery, cost management, and client engagement - all within a supportive and forward-looking team.
With hybrid working, a strong pipeline of projects, and involvement in multi-million-pound clean water schemes, this role provides a rewarding and secure opportunity to grow within the water sector.
 
What you'll be doing
 
·Supporting the Project Manager in coordinating mechanical design, installation, and procurement activities.
·Ensuring design information is delivered on time to support construction, commissioning, and project handover.
·Monitoring project costs and ensuring compliance with tender allowances or approved variations.
·Preparing and submitting applications for payment.
·Contributing to monthly reporting, contract reviews, and financial forecasting.
·Building and maintaining strong relationships with South East Water and key project stakeholders.
·Assisting with developing and maintaining project plans, delivery strategies, and contract programmes.
·Preparing mechanical progress reports and supporting technical submissions.
·Providing information for O&M manuals and project close-out documentation.
·Liaising with suppliers, subcontractors, and site teams regarding mechanical design, equipment, and installation queries.
·Monitoring subcontractor performance, quality standards, and compliance requirements.
·Maintaining accurate records, governance documents, and project filing systems.
·Evaluating innovative mechanical solutions and supporting efficient, safe design development.
·Identifying and managing risks and opportunities on a monthly basis.
·Ensuring mechanical solutions are safe to construct, commission, and operate.
·Supporting commissioning activities for mechanical equipment and systems.
·Maintaining a proactive approach to CPD and staying up to date with industry standards and innovations.
 
What you'll bring
 
Experience
 
·Mechanical engineering background within water, wastewater, utilities, industrial, or process-related projects.
·Experience delivering mechanical installation or engineering works, such as:
oPumping systems
oPipework and valves
oPressure systems
oMechanical plant within treatment processes
·Understanding of NEC contracts and contract administration.
·Experience coordinating supply chain partners, mechanical subcontractors, and equipment suppliers.
·Knowledge of CDM regulations, construction procedures, and site safety.
·Commissioning experience is advantageous.

Qualifications
 
·HNC or higher in Mechanical Engineering or related engineering discipline (minimum).
·CSCS/ECS card (advantageous).
·Confined space training or water sector safety accreditation beneficial but not essential.
·Professional membership or progression toward IEng/CEng status desirable.
Skills & Competencies
 
Technical:
 
·Mechanical design coordination
·Contract and commercial awareness
·Cost control & budgeting
·Procurement & supplier management
·Engineering governance & documentation
·Risk & opportunity management
·Project planning & programme support
·Client and stakeholder engagement
·Quality, compliance & installation oversight
·Commissioning support
 
Please contact Chas on 02393 876 074 or email chas.earl@carringtonwest.com to discuss in confidence.
Please note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If no response is received, the application has not been successful at this stage.