Principal Bridge/Structural Engineer – Manchester, UK

A leading civil and structural engineering consultancy is seeking a chartered Principal Bridge/Structural Engineer with extensive experience in bridges, heavy civils, and large-scale concrete/steel structures for a permanent position in their Manchester office.

This is a high-profile role offering the opportunity to lead challenging infrastructure projects, contribute to business growth, and shape the future of a dynamic structural engineering team.

About the Role

As a Principal Bridge/Structural Engineer, you will:

• Lead and deliver complex bridge and infrastructure projects, including new construction, major maintenance, retaining walls, flood defence schemes, and other heavy civil works.
• Work across superstructure, substructure, and articulation elements from early-stage feasibility, surveys, and scheme design through to detailed design and project delivery.
• Apply advanced modelling and structural analysis to resolve complex engineering challenges.
• Manage project budgets, timelines, teams, and client relationships.
• Mentor and develop junior engineers, supporting them toward chartership.
• Contribute to business development, supporting bids and client growth.
• Represent the designer on-site and act as signatory for approvals.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and manage bridges, heavy civil structures, and large-scale concrete/steel works.
• Undertake inspections, scoping, optioneering, and feasibility studies.
• Prepare, review, and approve calculations, drawings, specifications, contract documents, and reports.
• Liaise with clients, contractors, authorities, and multidisciplinary teams.
• Lead, mentor, and develop project teams.
• Support business growth and client engagement strategies.

Essential Requirements

• Chartered Engineer (CEng) – ICE, IStructE, or equivalent.
• 7–10+ years post-graduate experience in bridge or structural engineering.
• Proven experience delivering bridges, heavy civils, or large-scale concrete/steel structures.
• Proficiency in structural analysis and modelling software (e.g., LUSAS, STAAD Pro, or similar).
• Strong technical knowledge of UK bridge and civil engineering standards.
• Experience managing projects, budgets, and multidisciplinary teams.
• Excellent communication, attention to detail, and leadership skills.

Desirable

• Experience in multidisciplinary projects (highways, rail, water, geotechnics).
• Experience in flood defence, retaining walls, or temporary works.
• Proven track record in business development and client relationship management.
• Mentoring and leadership experience guiding junior engineers toward chartership.

Work Environment & Benefits

• Location: Manchester (Hybrid working available, minimum 2–3 days in office).
• Competitive salary and benefits package, including pension contributions, professional memberships, and modern office facilities.
• Career progression opportunities to senior leadership roles.
• Exposure to high-profile, high-impact infrastructure projects across the UK.

ELB Recruit are representing a client and are actively seeking a Principal Bridge/Structural Engineer to lead and grow a team delivering high-profile infrastructure projects in Manchester.