Overview

Principal Civil Engineer (Drainage) — London

Permanent | Salary: £50k-70k (DOE) + Benefits | Hybrid working - 2-3 days in office (flexible)

About the Role

We're seeking an experienced Principal Infrastructure Engineer to join a forward-thinking civil engineering consultancy based in London. You'll play a key role in a growing Infrastructure team, delivering high-quality design and technical support across major residential, industrial, commercial, and energy projects — from early feasibility through planning, detailed design, and construction. This is an excellent opportunity for a senior-level engineer who enjoys leading design teams, managing clients, and overseeing technically challenging projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage multiple infrastructure schemes, ensuring technical excellence and timely delivery.
• Oversee and review designs for drainage, highways, levels, and earthworks.
• Prepare Flood Risk Assessments, Drainage Strategies, and Utilities Statements.
• Manage technical approvals under S104, S38, and S278.
• Produce and review fee proposals, manage budgets, and maintain client relationships.
• Provide leadership, guidance, and mentoring to junior engineers and technicians.
• Support business development and contribute to company growth.

About You

• Degree qualified in Civil Engineering (or equivalent).
• Strong experience in development infrastructure design, ideally within a UK consultancy.
• In-depth knowledge of relevant design standards (e.g. Sewer Sector Guidance, Building Regulations, DMRB, CIRIA C753).
• Advanced user of Civils 3D, MicroDrainage / Flow, and AutoCAD.
• Proven experience in technical approval processes and project management.
• Confident communicator with leadership and mentoring experience.
• Chartered or near-Chartered status (CEng / IEng) desirable.

What’s on Offer

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Flexible hybrid working options
• Supportive, collaborative team culture
• Excellent professional development and career progression opportunities
• Involvement in large-scale, high-profile UK development projects

If you're a proactive and experienced Infrastructure Engineer looking to take the next step in your career — leading complex civil design projects and mentoring the next generation of engineers — we'd love to hear from you.

Apply now or contact us in confidence for more details