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Principle Mechanical Engineer

Reference: 1706931
Bristol
Permanent / Full Time
Closes: 3rd October 2026
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Posted 3rd September 2026

Job Description

FJA are recruiting on behalf of a leading water infrastructure contractor for an accomplished Principal Mechanical Engineer to join their growing engineering team based in Bristol or Exeter, with hybrid working available. This is an excellent opportunity for a chartered mechanical engineering professional to take a leading role in the design and delivery of major water and wastewater projects, providing technical expertise, driving engineering excellence, and supporting the successful delivery of complex infrastructure programmes. 
 
Benefits:

  • Competitive salary
  • Hybrid working and car allowance (role dependent)
  • 25 days holiday plus Bank Holidays, with the option to purchase up to 5 additional days
  • Company pension scheme, life assurance and health insurance
  • Private medical insurance
  • Cycle to Work Scheme, Discounts & Savings Hub, Kids Pass and a range of additional employee benefits

Principal Mechanical Engineer responsibilities:

  • Deliver high-quality mechanical engineering design solutions for water and wastewater treatment projects, ensuring compliance with client specifications and industry standards.
  • Produce cost-effective mechanical designs and plant layouts that support safe construction, efficient commissioning and whole-life project value.
  • Coordinate mechanical engineering activities with multi-disciplinary teams, including Civil, Electrical, Process and Project Management functions.
  • Lead and contribute to the preparation of design documents, technical specifications, calculations, equipment schedules and engineering drawings.
  • Support the Proposals team by providing technical input, design advice, cost estimates and feedback during tender and bid activities.
  • Promote standardisation, value engineering and continuous improvement to maintain project competitiveness and delivery efficiency.
  • Develop, review and improve engineering procedures, processes and best practice standards across the department.
  • Ensure effective document control and maintain accurate project records throughout the lifecycle of each contract.
  • Champion health, safety and environmental best practice, ensuring all designs comply with relevant legislation and CDM requirements.
  • Support the development, mentoring and supervision of engineers and designers within the team.
  • Build strong client relationships and contribute towards achieving high levels of customer satisfaction.
  • Drive sustainable engineering solutions and minimise waste across engineering and project delivery activities.

Principal Mechanical Engineer requirements:

  • Degree qualified in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
  • Chartered Engineer status or membership of a relevant professional institution.
  • Significant experience delivering process plant systems on complex water and wastewater infrastructure projects.
  • Strong understanding of water and wastewater treatment processes and associated mechanical systems.
  • Proven experience leading engineering design activities and managing technical teams within the water sector.
  • Ability to rationalise designs and develop cost-effective engineering solutions and plant layouts.
  • Broad knowledge of water industry disciplines, including Civil, Electrical and Process Engineering.
  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret and manage large volumes of technical information.
  • Excellent communication skills with the ability to confidently present technical proposals to clients and stakeholders.
  • Experience working on design and build projects

If you are looking for a fantastic Principal Mechanical Engineer opportunity and want to play a key role in delivering critical water and wastewater infrastructure projects, then click on the ‘Apply Now‘ button.
 
Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we are not always able to respond to every applicant.
If you have not heard back from us within 14 days, please assume that your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion. 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 solely on their merits, qualifications and ability to perform the duties of the role. 
 
Finlay Jude Associates Ltd acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and an employment business for the supply of temporary workers.

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