Principle Mechanical Design Engineer

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Job ID:

Posted:

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Location: Norwich

Salary: 75000 (per annum)

Job type: Permanent

Working pattern: Full time

Industry: Construction / Construction - Building Projects

Company: Hays

Consultant: Jack Downes

Hays office: Cambridge — Office 203, Mantle, 9 Hills Road

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Job Title : Principal Mechanical Engineer – Building Services
Location : Norwich, UK
Salary : Up to 75,000 per annum
Contract Type: Permanent, Full-Time Working
Pattern : Hybrid (with potential for one day per week in the office)
Sector : MOD, MOJ, Residential, Commercial, Educational

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced and forward-thinking Principal Mechanical Engineer to join our building services team in Norwich. This senior role offers the opportunity to lead mechanical design across a diverse portfolio of projects, including MOD, MOJ, residential, commercial, and educational sectors.

You’ll play a key role in shaping technical delivery, mentoring junior engineers, and driving sustainable, low-carbon design solutions. With flexible working and the option to be in the office just one day a week, this position offers both autonomy and impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical design and specification of HVAC, public health, and energy systems

• Deliver projects from concept through to completion, ensuring compliance with UK regulations and client requirements

• Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams including electrical, architectural, and structural consultants

• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians

• Attend client meetings, design reviews, and site inspections

• Contribute to fee proposals, resource planning, and project programming

• Ensure designs are delivered on time, within budget, and to a high technical standard

• Support the development of low-carbon and energy-efficient mechanical strategies

• Maintain strong relationships with clients, contractors, and stakeholders

Candidate Profile

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering or Building Services Engineering (or equivalent)

• Chartered Engineer status (or working toward) with a relevant institution (e.g., CIBSE, IMechE)

• Minimum 8 years’ experience in mechanical building services design

• Proven experience delivering projects in MOD, MOJ, residential, commercial, and educational sectors

• Strong knowledge of UK building regulations, BS standards, and design codes

• Proficient in design software such as AutoCAD, Revit, Hevacomp, IES, and Microsoft Office

• Excellent communication, leadership, and client-facing skills

• Eligible for UK security clearance (MOD/MOJ requirement)

Benefits

• Competitive salary up to 75,000 per annum

• Flexible working with potential for one day per week in the office

• Pension scheme and annual leave package

• Professional development and chartership support

• Collaborative team culture and meaningful project work

What you need to do now

If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.

If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.

# - Jack Downes