Principal Mechanical Engineer

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