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 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. 

Your responsibilities will include: 

• 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. 

It’s essential that you have:

• 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  

It’s desirable that you: 

• Experience with electrical and control systems  

• Experience across clean water and wastewater projects  

• Awareness of construction methods and materials  
• Knowledge of engineering drawing practices.

Why Join Us?

We are a growing engineering consultancy where experienced engineers have real influence over projects, technical standards and team development.

In this role, you will:

• Take ownership of complex mechanical design solutions
• Play a key role in mentoring and developing engineers
• Influence technical standards and engineering approaches
• Work on a range of challenging water sector projects

Our Manchester office offers free parking, excellent transport links and access to a fully equipped gym with changing facilities, alongside a collaborative and supportive environment.

We also offer:

• 23 days annual leave + bank holidays, increasing with service
• Option to purchase additional leave
• Chartership mentoring and support
• Regular CPD sessions and industry-led learning
• Monthly team brunches and quarterly socials
• Cycle to Work scheme and free fruit in the office

We are primarily office-based but offer flexible hybrid working arrangements.

Contract positions may be outside IR35.