Reference
CM389
Sector
Civil & Structural Engineering
Salary
Competitive
Town/City
Birmingham
Contract Type
Permanent
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We are working with a leading UK transport and infrastructure consultancy is seeking a highly experienced Principal Highways Engineer with strong drainage expertise to join its growing engineering team. The organisation works across public- and private-sector projects, delivering innovative, sustainable, and technically robust transport and infrastructure solutions.
Role Overview
As a Principal Highways Engineer, you will play a key technical and leadership role in the delivery of a wide range of highways and transport infrastructure schemes. You will manage design teams, oversee project delivery, ensure technical excellence, and engage regularly with clients and stakeholders. A strong background in highway drainage design, SuDS, and hydraulic modelling is essential for this role.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the design and delivery of highways and drainage schemes from concept to detailed design.
- Provide expert technical input on surface water drainage, SuDS, flood risk considerations, and design compliance.
- Manage, mentor, and support engineers and technicians within the team.
- Prepare and review drawings, technical reports, and specifications.
- Engage with clients, local authorities, and multidisciplinary project teams.
- Support project planning, budgeting, and resource management.
- Contribute to business development, bid preparation, and client relationship building.
Essential Skills & Experience
- Degree in Civil Engineering or related discipline.
- Chartered (CEng/MICE) or working towards chartership.
- Proven experience delivering UK highways engineering projects.
- Strong expertise in highway drainage design, SuDS, and modelling software (e.g. MicroDrainage/InfoDrainage, AutoCAD, Civil 3D).
- Excellent understanding of relevant standards including DMRB, Manual for Streets, and Design & Construction Guidance.
- Strong communication, leadership, and team coordination abilities.
- Experience managing projects, budgets, and client interfaces.
Desirable Skills
- Familiarity with BIM workflows and digital design tools.
- Experience in flood risk assessment or water management strategies.
- Background working with National Highways or major local authorities.
