Senior Director - Civil Engineering

RPS; United Kingdom; Hybrid; GBP 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering consultancy is seeking a Senior Director in Civil Engineering to oversee complex infrastructure projects and lead a talented team. Based in Newark or Birmingham, with hybrid working available, this role involves strategic leadership, client relationship management, and driving business growth. The ideal candidate has a degree in Civil Engineering, Chartered Engineer status, and a proven track record in project management and business development. Join a company committed to diversity and innovation in the civil engineering sector.

Benefits

Flexible working options

Inclusive workplace culture

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• Proven track record in managing complex civil engineering projects.
• Chartered Engineer status (ICE or equivalent) required.
• Experience in business development and client relationship management.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for civil engineering teams.
• Oversee delivery of infrastructure projects and mentor staff.
• Manage client relationships and pursue business development.

Skills

Leadership

Client Relationship Management

Civil Engineering Design

Business Development

Team Management

Education

Degree in Civil Engineering

Tools

Digital Design Tools

Job description

Senior Director – Civil Engineering

Drive Excellence. Shape Tomorrow’s Infrastructure.

Are you ready for a senior leadership opportunity that combines technical excellence with strategic influence? At Tetra Tech RPS, we’re looking for an experienced and visionary Senior Director to lead our Civil Engineering team, based in Newark or Birmingham, with hybrid working available.

This is a unique chance to oversee the delivery of complex highways and aviation infrastructure projects for a diverse range of clients. From large-scale residential development schemes to strategic airport enhancements, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping the built environment while driving innovation and commercial success. Whether you’re actively seeking your next challenge or open to exploring new possibilities, this role offers the opportunity to lead talented teams, influence organisational strategy, and make a lasting impact.

Purpose & Scope of the Role

As Senior Director, you will provide strategic leadership and technical oversight for high‑performing civil engineering teams. Your responsibilities will include managing resources across multidisciplinary projects, ensuring commercial governance, and maintaining excellence in project delivery. You’ll act as a trusted advisor to key clients, strengthening relationships and securing long‑term partnerships. The role also involves mentoring senior engineers, fostering professional development, and driving business growth through proactive engagement and cross‑selling opportunities. With exposure to significant schemes and a growing pipeline of strategic projects, this position offers a platform to shape the future of civil engineering within our organisation.

Your Impact in this Position

You’ll be instrumental in delivering complex infrastructure projects, expanding team capabilities, and influencing strategic direction. Success in this role is measured through leadership, collaboration, and commercial performance. In the short term, you’ll establish yourself as a senior leader and ensure excellence in delivery. Medium‑term goals include driving business development and securing new opportunities. Longer‑term, you’ll help define the future of our civil engineering discipline and progress into broader leadership roles.

Your Toolkit for Success at RPS

At RPS, we recruit using core capabilities—the essential skills, experience, and responsibilities required to perform the role effectively. But there’s no such thing as the ‘perfect’ candidate. If you feel you meet 75% of the requirements for this role, we’d love to hear from you.

Technical Knowledge

You will bring comprehensive expertise in civil engineering design principles, regulatory frameworks, and construction methodologies. A strong understanding of Section 278 agreements, drainage, earthworks, and geometric design is essential, along with proficiency in digital design tools and emerging technologies. Your ability to validate complex designs, resolve technical challenges, and deliver practical, cost‑effective solutions will ensure project success. Chartered Engineer status (ICE or equivalent) and a proven track record in civil engineering design and delivery are required.

Team Leadership & Guidance

As a senior leader, you will inspire and manage a team of skilled professionals, setting clear strategic direction and ensuring resources are allocated effectively. You’ll mentor senior engineers, foster a culture of accountability and collaboration, and maintain high morale across hybrid working environments. Strong interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence will enable you to build trust and empower individuals to deliver their best work.

Client Relationship Management & Business Development

Commercial success is a cornerstone of this role. You’ll demonstrate a deep understanding of project economics, including cost control, risk management, and profitability. Your ability to negotiate contracts, manage budgets, and identify opportunities for additional services will strengthen client relationships and drive growth. A proven track record in work‑winning, proposal development, and strategic business growth is highly desirable.

Collaborative Working – Internal Stakeholder Management

Effective collaboration is fundamental to delivering integrated solutions. You’ll work closely with colleagues across disciplines and Tetra Tech operating units, sharing knowledge and optimising outcomes. This includes coordinating with bid teams, project managers, and technical specialists to ensure seamless delivery. Your ability to navigate competing priorities and contribute to strategic initiatives will enhance our overall capability and service offering.

Strategic Vision & Innovation

You will play a critical role in shaping the long‑term direction of the civil engineering discipline within the organisation. This competency involves anticipating industry trends, identifying emerging technologies, and integrating innovative solutions that enhance efficiency, sustainability, and client value. By championing digital transformation and promoting best practice methodologies, you will help drive continuous improvement and maintain our reputation for technical excellence.

Mandatory Requirements

To be considered for this role, you will hold a degree in Civil Engineering or a related discipline, demonstrating a strong technical foundation. Chartered Engineer status (ICE or equivalent) is essential, reflecting your commitment to professional standards and expertise. In addition, you will have proven experience in civil engineering design and project delivery, showcasing your ability to manage complex schemes from concept through to completion.

Beneficial

While not essential, experience in aviation civils and utilities infrastructure will be advantageous, as will advanced stakeholder engagement skills to navigate complex approval processes and maintain strong client relationships. Evidence of successful business development, including work‑winning and proposal preparation, will further strengthen your application and highlight your ability to contribute to the growth of the business.

About Tetra Tech RPS

Tetra Tech RPS is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment across all areas of our organisation. We recognise that a broad range of backgrounds and perspectives contributes to a more dynamic, innovative, and supportive workplace where every individual is empowered to share their ideas and contribute meaningfully.

We are dedicated to building a culture of respect and equity, where people are valued regardless of their ethnicity, gender identity, age, belief system, sexual orientation, or any other personal characteristic.

In alignment with the Equality Act 2010, we will make reasonable adjustments to support candidates and employees requiring additional arrangements. This could include adaptations to work schedules, training approaches, or the physical workspace. Please inform us if you need any accommodations during the recruitment process or in your day‑to‑day role. Flexible and part‑time working options are available in this role, with working patterns agreed collaboratively between employees and line managers to support individual wellbeing and optimal performance.