Principal Civil Structural Engineer

Join a leading consultancy delivering transformative engineering solutions across the nuclear, renewable energy, and high-energy industrial sectors - including data centres and hydrogen production facilities.
This is a senior opportunity to shape nationally significant projects, from supporting the UK's nuclear fleet and advancing Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technologies, to enabling the transition to Net Zero through sustainable energy systems.

What You'll Do
As a Principal Civil & Structural Engineer, you'll take technical ownership of complex engineering packages and lead multidisciplinary teams across the full project lifecycle - from bid development to construction. You'll play a key role in defining strategy, ensuring quality, and mentoring the next generation of engineers.

Key responsibilities include:

Acting as Responsible Engineer and Technical Authority on major energy projects.
Leading design strategy, standards, and best practices across civil and structural disciplines.
Overseeing safety case inputs and technical documentation.
Providing governance, assurance, and technical leadership for safety-critical systems.
Engaging with clients, regulators, and industry bodies at a senior level.
Driving innovation, digital tools, and continuous improvement.
Supporting business development and client relationship management.
What We're Looking For
We're seeking experienced professionals with a passion for leadership, innovation, and collaboration. Ideal candidates will have:

A degree in Civil Engineering or a related discipline (MEng, MSc, BEng, BSc).
Chartered Engineer status with a relevant professional body.
Proven experience in technical leadership or Responsible Engineer roles.
Extensive background in civil and structural design within regulated environments (nuclear preferred).
Deep understanding of nuclear safety, regulation, and quality assurance.
Strong knowledge of design standards (ACI, ASCE, AISC) and BIM tools.
Proficiency in finite element modelling and validation.
Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
A commitment to mentoring and continuous professional development.
Why Join Us?

We offer a supportive, inclusive environment where your leadership and expertise are valued. Benefits include:

Competitive salary up to £85,000, plus benefits
Flexible working arrangements (hybrid, part-time, varied locations).
Free single medical cover and digital GP service.
Enhanced parental leave and family-friendly policies.
Professional development support and membership reimbursement.
Access to employee assistance and wellbeing programmes.Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at (url removed)