Principal Engineer

Description:

Sweco is seeking a highly experienced and motivated Principal Engineer (Highways) to join its dynamic Highways team based in Leeds. This is a senior-level position designed for an individual with proven technical expertise in civil and highway engineering who is looking to contribute to the design and delivery of impactful infrastructure projects across the UK.

Sweco’s highways team is recognised as an industry leader, working across major markets including strategic roads, town and city centre revitalisations, and private infrastructure development. Their recent projects include prestigious schemes like York Central, Bradford City Centre, Sheffield TCF, Connecting North East Calderdale, Manchester Streets for All, and M25 Junction 28. The company prides itself on leveraging cutting-edge design software, sustainability principles, and integrated teamwork to create innovative and safe solutions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage highway design teams, ensuring deliverables meet safety, quality, and regulatory standards.

• Act as a design manager on multidisciplinary projects involving major highway enhancements, active travel routes, placemaking, and public realm development.

• Ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget while meeting all required technical standards.

• Mentor and guide junior engineers and technicians, promoting technical excellence and continuous professional development.

• Liaise with clients and key stakeholders to identify requirements and provide strategic engineering input.

• Review and prepare technical documentation including feasibility reports, design drawings, and specifications.

• Promote sustainability and innovation within design processes and solutions.

Requirements:

• Degree in Civil Engineering or a related field.

• Chartered or Incorporated Engineer status (CEng/IEng), or actively working toward accreditation.

• Demonstrated experience in highway design, particularly in alignment with DMRB standards and LTN 1/20 Cycle Infrastructure Design.

• Proficiency in using AutoCAD Civil 3D and other highway design tools.

• Strong knowledge of UK highway regulations including Manual for Streets, DMRB, TSRGD, MCHW, and the Traffic Signs Manual.

• Effective verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly present design concepts to clients and stakeholders.

• Self-driven, eager to learn, and committed to technical and professional excellence.

What’s in It for You:
Sweco offers a rich and diverse work environment where professional development and personal well-being are core priorities. Employees enjoy the opportunity to work on innovative, high-impact infrastructure projects with a company that values sustainability, inclusivity, and flexibility.

Benefits include:

• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays (option to purchase up to 5 more)

• 7% employer pension contribution

• Life assurance (3x base salary)

• Two paid professional memberships

• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements

• Salary sacrifice scheme for electric vehicles

• Discounts and perks via Sweco Benefit Select

• Career development support including accreditation bonuses

• Employee Assistance Programme covering mental health, financial, and wellness support

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion:
Sweco fosters an inclusive culture where everyone is respected and valued. The company strongly encourages applicants from all backgrounds including those with disabilities, veterans, and underrepresented groups. It is a Disability Confident Committed Employer and provides reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process for applicants who need them.