Principal Mechanical Water Design Engineer

Posted 19 March 2026
Salary £68 per hour
LocationCambridge
Job type Contract - Full Time
Discipline Water Civils and M&E
ReferenceJO0000065471

Job description

Principal Mechanical Engineer
Shape the Future of Our Cities and Environments
Our client is seeking an experienced and dynamic Principal Mechanical Engineer to join their Design & Advanced Technology (D&AT) team. As part of a talented, multi-disciplinary group, you will be at the forefront of delivering innovative and iconic projects within the Water market. This is an opportunity to work on cutting-edge engineering projects that have a global impact, contributing to critical UK infrastructure both domestically and internationally.
This role offers you the chance to make a significant impact, playing a key role in transformational programmes while delivering industry-leading solutions throughout the project lifecycle.
Location: Hybrid working available (3 days per week office/site-based)
Type: Contract
Rate: £68 per hour
Your Role
As a Principal Mechanical Engineer, your responsibilities will include:
·Leading a team of Mechanical engineers in delivering technical design work on complex, multi-disciplinary projects, adhering to national and project-specific design codes and standards, with a focus on pumping systems and water & wastewater treatment design.
·Producing and reviewing technical deliverables, such as design reports, drawings, calculations, and scopes of work.
·Providing technical input into Mechanical aspects of projects, working alongside the project management team to ensure timely delivery and adherence to budgets and key milestones.
·Collaborating with clients, operational teams, and other internal teams to provide integrated solutions across projects.
·Mentoring junior engineers and contributing to the growth of the Mechanical Engineering capabilities within the team.
·Working independently with minimal technical guidance, exercising sound judgement in solving complex problems, and providing guidance to junior team members.
·Supporting bid proposals with technical expertise.
·Delivering integrated design solutions in collaboration with a multi-disciplinary team across the UK and overseas.
·Adhering to quality assurance standards by reviewing both your work and that of others.
About You
The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications and skills:
·A degree in Mechanical Engineering (or equivalent).
·Preferably a Chartered or Incorporated Mechanical Engineer.
·Proven experience coordinating or managing a Mechanical engineering design delivery team within a consultancy, especially in a multi-disciplinary environment.
·A broad perspective and innovative approach to design challenges.
·Comprehensive knowledge and practical experience in the design integration of mechanical systems, including pumps, blowers, screens, and chemical dosing systems.
·Thorough understanding of current UK design standards, relevant legislation (such as CDM and DSEAR), and industry best practices.
·Strong proficiency in analytical software and related tools.
·Experience in the Water market is essential.
·Excellent communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey technical concepts to diverse, multi-disciplinary teams.
·A proactive, highly motivated mindset with a collaborative approach to drive team success across projects.
If you are an accomplished Mechanical Engineer with a passion for delivering impactful projects in the Water sector, this is an exciting opportunity to further develop your career and make a significant contribution to the future of engineering. Apply now to join our client's team and be part of delivering transformative projects.