Principal Structural Engineer (Chartered Structural Engineer)
My client is looking for an experienced, commercially minded Principal Engineer to join their leadership team and help drive both project success and business growth. This is a senior technical and strategic role with full accountability for project profitability, client development, and team leadership.
You will take the lead on complex, high-value structural projects (typically between £5m–£25m), mentor project teams, and contribute directly to business development and client retention. This role will suit a Chartered Structural Engineer who is passionate about technical excellence and ready to help shape the future of a high-performing consultancy.
You’ll work closely with the Managing Director and other senior leaders, supporting the delivery of ambitious growth goals while continuing to raise the standard of engineering we deliver to our clients.
Key Responsibilities
Lead delivery of structural projects with full ownership of technical output, commercial performance, and client satisfaction
Manage and grow key client accounts, building long-term relationships and identifying opportunities for repeat business
Deliver profitable design work and oversee fee recovery across your project portfolio
Drive forward new business by supporting bids, tenders, and strategic proposals
Mentor and develop Project Engineers and junior team members, fostering a high-performance culture
Provide high-level technical oversight across structural schemes in steel, concrete, timber and masonry
Oversee compliance with Eurocodes, British Standards, and internal QA processes
Lead internal design reviews, technical audits, and performance reporting
Coordinate multidisciplinary teams and external consultants, ensuring design intent and delivery timelines are met
Represent the company at client meetings, industry events, and within professional networks
What We’re Looking For
Ideally Chartered Member of the Institution of Structural Engineers (MIStructE)
MEng (Hons) in Structural Engineering from a recognised UK or international university
Minimum 8–10 years’ post-qualification experience, with a strong portfolio of UK-based consultancy work
Proven ability to lead teams, deliver profitable design work, and manage stakeholder relationships at a senior level
Excellent technical judgement, with deep understanding of structural behaviour, codes, and software tools
Strong commercial awareness — able to manage budgets, identify opportunities, and drive value
Confident communicator and strategic thinker, with a collaborative leadership style
A high level of personal accountability, with a mindset for delivery and continuous improvement
What’s on Offer
Competitive senior-level salary, based on experience and leadership responsibility
Flexibility for hybrid working (up to 20% remote)
Strategic input into the future direction and growth of the business
Structured support for leadership development and continued CPD
Exposure to high-profile, technically ambitious projects
Professional membership fees covered
A values-led, high-trust team environment with clear autonomy and support
If you’re a Chartered Structural Engineer with strong technical, commercial, and leadership credentials — and you’re ready to make a real impact in a business that values integrity, initiative, and excellence — we’d love to hear from you.