Principal Mechanical Engineer

Advance Training & Recruitment Services; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - GBP 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering consultancy in the UK is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer to lead mechanical design for water infrastructure projects. This hybrid role involves mentoring junior engineers and collaborating with stakeholders to drive project success. Ideal candidates should be degree-qualified with strong design experience in the water industry. In addition to a competitive salary, the position offers excellent benefits including medical insurance and development opportunities.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Private medical insurance

Discounted gym membership

Flexible working arrangements

Industry-leading training

Qualifications

• Degree-qualified Mechanical Engineer (Chartered or working toward).
• Strong background in detailed design within the water industry.
• Experience with delivery contractors is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Act as a regional technical lead for mechanical design.
• Lead mechanical design across the full lifecycle.
• Deliver innovative solutions for water infrastructure.
• Mentor and develop junior engineers.
• Collaborate with project managers and clients.

Skills

Leadership

Communication Skills

Mechanical Design

Water Industry Knowledge

Mentoring and Development

Education

Degree in Mechanical Engineering

Job description

Principal Mechanical Engineer – Water Sector

Locations: Southampton, Brighton or Kingshill

Hybrid: 2-3 days per week in the office

Salary: £70-75k

With major AMP8 investment and strong regional growth, Advance TRS are working with a leading consultancy who are expanding their engineering team. They are seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer to step into a regional lead role‑combining technical excellence with people leadership and mentoring responsibility.

What You’ll Do

• Act as a regional technical lead for mechanical design, influencing project direction and best practice
• Lead mechanical design across the full lifecycle – from feasibility and optioneering to detailed design and construction support
• Deliver innovative solutions for treatment plants, pumping stations, conveyance systems and wider water infrastructure
• Mentor, support and develop junior engineers, with opportunities to take on formal line management
• Collaborate closely with project managers, designers, clients, contractors and supply chain partners to drive positive outcomes

About You

• Degree-qualified Mechanical Engineer (Chartered or working toward)
• Strong background in detailed design within the water industry
• Experience working with delivery contractors is beneficial
• Natural leader with excellent communication skills and a passion for developing others
• Comfortable balancing hands‑on technical work with team leadership

What’s on Offer

• Hybrid working: 2-3 days per week in the office
• Supportive, friendly and collaborative team culture
• Competitive salary, pension, holidays, private medical insurance, discounted gym membership and more
• Flexible working arrangements
• Meaningful, exciting projects across the UK & Ireland
• Industry-leading training, development and paid professional memberships
• A workplace recognised for excellence and sustainability

Apply now or contact Molly Brown for more information.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.