Principal Engineer – Construction Design

About the role

Kier is seeking a Principal Engineer to join its Design team in Waterbeach. The role leads the delivery of complex construction engineering services, ensuring solutions are safe, buildable and meet client expectations.

Key responsibilities

• Define and agree technical requirements with clients, challenging and refining briefs as needed.
• Lead the development of fee proposals and manage day‑to‑day workload of engineers and technical staff.
• Ensure designs comply with legal requirements, CDM Regulations, and Kier’s SHE and Quality Management Systems.
• Oversee production of calculations, drawings, reports and risk assessments, and drive value‑engineering opportunities.
• Represent the project at client meetings, manage financial and commercial aspects with support from Engineering and Commercial Managers, and monitor progress against programme and budget.
• Provide leadership to direct and indirect reports, conduct inductions, performance reviews and promote best practice within the team.
• Maintain professional development, digital competency and contribute to industry forums and knowledge sharing.

Required profile

• Chartered Engineer status (e.g., CEng, MICE) with substantial industry experience.
• Proven experience in a senior engineering role, particularly designing temporary works.
• Ability to lead multidisciplinary design teams and manage client relationships.