Senior Highways Engineer

Principal / Senior Civil Highways Engineer

Locations: Northampton (Whilton Locks), Leamington Spa (Athena Court) or Kettering (Orion Park)
Job Type: Permanent, Full-Time
Salary: Competitive + Benefits

The Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced Principal / Senior Civil Highways Engineer to join a growing highways team and play a leading role in the delivery of civil engineering and highway infrastructure projects.

This is an excellent opportunity for a technically strong engineer with consultancy experience who enjoys leading projects, mentoring engineers, and developing lasting client relationships. You will be involved in projects from concept through to detailed design, helping to deliver innovative, cost-effective and sustainable engineering solutions.

Key Responsibilities

Project & Design Leadership

• Lead the design and delivery of civil engineering and highway schemes from concept through to detailed design.
• Produce and oversee designs relating to highways, drainage, earthworks and associated infrastructure.
• Ensure all designs comply with relevant standards, regulations and industry best practice.
• Deliver practical and cost-effective engineering solutions that meet client requirements.

Project Management

• Manage the technical delivery of multiple projects simultaneously.
• Coordinate project programmes, budgets and resources.
• Work closely with senior leadership to ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget.
• Maintain regular communication with clients, stakeholders and project teams.

Team Leadership & Mentoring

• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to engineers and technicians.
• Review and approve design drawings, calculations and technical documentation.
• Support internal peer reviews and promote knowledge sharing across the business.
• Assist in developing the capabilities of junior team members.

Technical Expertise

• Provide expert advice on highway and civil engineering challenges.
• Develop innovative and efficient engineering solutions.
• Ensure designs are technically robust, practical and sustainable.

Client Management

• Build and maintain strong client relationships.
• Attend client meetings and provide project updates.
• Assist with technical reports, presentations and proposals.
• Support discussions relating to programme, commercial and contractual matters.

Quality & Compliance

• Oversee quality assurance processes across project delivery.
• Review designs to ensure compliance with project requirements and industry standards.
• Coordinate with colleagues across multiple offices to maintain consistent technical quality.

Site & Safety Responsibilities

• Undertake site visits, surveys and inspections as required.
• Resolve technical issues arising during project delivery.
• Ensure compliance with CDM Regulations and health and safety requirements.
• Contribute to risk assessments and design risk management.

Sustainability & Innovation

• Promote sustainable engineering principles and best practice.
• Stay informed on emerging technologies, regulations and industry developments.
• Contribute innovative solutions that minimise environmental impact.

Business Development

• Support the preparation of fee proposals and tender submissions.
• Help identify new business opportunities.
• Contribute to winning and securing future projects.
• Support project financial management, budgeting and invoicing where required.

About You

Essential Requirements

• Degree qualified in Civil Engineering (BEng, MEng or equivalent).
• Minimum 5-8 years' experience in civil/highway engineering design within a consultancy environment.
• Strong experience delivering highways and infrastructure projects.
• Proficient in AutoCAD, Civil 3D and other industry-standard design software.
• Experience managing project budgets, programmes and resources.
• Proven ability to mentor and support junior engineers and technicians.
• Strong understanding of highways, drainage and utility infrastructure design.
• Knowledge of CDM Regulations and relevant engineering standards.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong analytical skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Full UK driving licence.

Desirable Experience

• Chartered or Incorporated status, or working towards professional accreditation.
• Membership of a relevant professional body such as:
  • ICE
  • CIHT
  • IHE
• Knowledge of:
  • Section 38 & Section 278 Agreements
  • Section 104 Agreements
  • Section 23 Land Drainage Consents
• Experience managing client relationships and contributing to business development activities.

Personal Attributes

• Proactive and self-motivated.
• Strong sense of ownership and accountability.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Excellent organisational and time management skills.
• Collaborative and supportive team player.
• Positive attitude with a commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

What's on Offer?

• Opportunity to work on a broad range of civil and highway infrastructure projects.
• Clear career progression within a growing and collaborative team.
• Professional development and training support.
• Exposure to high-profile projects and diverse client sectors.
• Supportive working environment with opportunities to lead and influence project delivery.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.