Principal Mechanical Engineer

Job Type Permanent / Full Time
Area Rickmansworth
Sector Principle Engineer, Water / Wastewater
Closing Date 6th November 2025
Job ref 1623783

Job Description

FJA are recruiting on behalf of a leading UK-based provider of integrated design and delivery solutions for the water and wastewater industry for an experienced to Principal Mechanical Engineer to strengthen their engineering team
 
This role is based in Rickmansworth with hybrid working available
 
Benefits

  • A competitive salary 
  • Hybrid Working (Jobs needs dependent) 
  • Car/car allowance (Jobs needs dependent) 
  • 25 days holiday + Bank Holidays (with an additional 5 days available to buy) 
  • Contribution Pension scheme 
  • Life Assurance 
  • Health Insurance 
  • Private Medical Insurance 
  • And many more benefits including – cycle to work scheme, discounts and savings Hub, Kids Pass etc 

Principal Mechanical Engineer responsibilities:

  • Report to Design Managers, Technical Discipline Lead, Regional Discipline Lead, and Engineering Manager
  • Produce complex, cost-effective designs that meet specifications and are constructible and commissionable
  • Prepare and review all design deliverables, including specifications, schedules, drawings, and calculations
  • Collaborate with other disciplines to develop site/plant 3D models
  • Apply standard designs and best practices wherever possible
  • Deliver design outputs within agreed timescales and budgets
  • Coordinate design outputs across all technical disciplines
  • Provide estimates and feedback for the Proposals department
  • Build relationships with construction staff and supply chain representatives to enhance buildability and efficiency
  • Develop, monitor, and improve departmental procedures and processes
  • Ensure designs are coordinated internally and externally for overall project benefit
  • Maintain accurate records and files throughout project duration
  • Chair Operability and Maintenance workshops with clients to ensure practical, maintainable solutions
  • Promote a customer-focused culture across all processes, considering both end users and internal stakeholders
  • Maintain a personal development plan and assist in supervising and developing staff
  • Support a safe working environment and ensure designs comply with CDM 2015 regulations and health and safety requirements
  • Minimise waste and consider environmental impacts in all design activities

Principal Mechanical Engineer requirements:

  • Extensive experience and strong knowledge of engineering principles, including structures, materials, hydraulics, and environmental engineering
  • Deep understanding of water and sewage treatment processes
  • Proven experience managing teams in the design of water and sewage treatment plant systems
  • Chartered membership of a recognised professional institution
  • Relevant engineering degree in an appropriate discipline
  • Ability to rationalise designs and develop cost-effective plant layouts
  • Broad understanding of water treatment, covering mechanical, process, electrical engineering, and project management
  • Comprehensive knowledge of roles and responsibilities under CDM 2015 regulations
  • Thorough familiarity with industry standards (BS, WIMES, BSRIA, etc.) and HSE regulations (PUWER, LOLER, PSSR 2000, DSEAR, etc.), including The Water Supply (Water Quality) Regulations 2016 (Reg31) and Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI) requirements
  • Analytical and adaptable, able to process and interpret large volumes of complex data
  • Strong ability to present technical proposals clearly, confidently, and persuasively
  • Full, valid driving license

If you are looking for a fantastic Principal Mechanical Engineer opportunity and want to work for a leading national contractor with opportunities to progress, then click on the ‘apply now’ button.
 
Due to the high volume of applications, we receive we are not always able to reply to all applications. If you haven’t heard back from us within 2 weeks, then please accept that your application has been unsuccessful for the role we currently have advertised.
 
Please note that no terminology in this advert is intended to discriminate on the grounds of a person’s gender, marital status, race, religion, colour, age, disability or sexual orientation. Every candidate will be assessed only in accordance with their merits, qualifications and abilities to perform the duties of the job. Finlay Jude Associates Ltd acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers.