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