Principal Geotechnical Engineer in Cordwainer, Greater London

An established engineering consultancy is looking to appoint a Lead Geotechnical Engineer to join its London-based design team, working across a varied portfolio of challenging temporary and permanent works projects.

This is a particularly exciting opportunity for an experienced geotechnical engineer looking to take the next significant step in their career. The successful candidate will initially work closely alongside an experienced Director, with the intention of progressively taking over leadership of the geotechnical discipline within the next 2–3 years.

This provides an excellent transition period, allowing the successful individual to develop a detailed understanding of the business, its clients and projects before assuming overall responsibility for the discipline.

The Role

The consultancy works closely with knowledgeable contractor clients in a dynamic, fast-paced design environment. Projects are technically varied and often require practical, innovative engineering solutions to complex construction problems.

Responsibilities will include:

• Assessing ground conditions and interpreting site investigation information
• Undertaking and overseeing geotechnical design for temporary and permanent works
• Carrying out finite element analysis and other advanced geotechnical assessments
• Solving complex soil–structure interaction problems
• Producing high-quality technical reports, calculations and design documentation
• Working directly with contractor clients and other engineering disciplines
• Taking ownership of projects from initial assessment through to delivery
• Operating with a high degree of technical and commercial autonomy
• Developing client relationships and providing clear technical guidance
• Recruiting, developing and ultimately leading a geotechnical engineering team
• Working closely with the current Director during a structured transition into a discipline leadership position

About You

The successful candidate will be an experienced geotechnical design engineer with the technical confidence and leadership capability to develop into a senior position within the business.

You will ideally have:

• A minimum of 10 years' professional experience within geotechnical engineering and design
• Strong knowledge of geotechnical design processes and analytical methods
• Confidence undertaking and reviewing complex geotechnical calculations and analyses
• Experience with finite element analysis and soil–structure interaction
• A strong understanding of site investigation and ground conditions
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• The ability to lead projects independently and take responsibility for technical delivery
• The capability and ambition to recruit, develop and manage a team
• A strong interest in construction engineering
• Chartered Engineer status with the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE)

The Opportunity

This is more than a conventional senior geotechnical design position. It offers a clear route towards leading an established geotechnical discipline, with the benefit of a substantial handover period from an experienced Director.

For an ambitious engineer who enjoys technically challenging work, working closely with contractors and solving real construction problems, this represents an excellent opportunity to influence and grow a geotechnical team while progressing towards a senior leadership position.