Job Description

Full Time, Permanent

Are you ready to be part of the transformation of one of the UK's most iconic harbours?

We are seeking a visionary and experienced Principal Engineer to develop and deliver a strategic programme of harbour infrastructure repairs and improvements across the next decade.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead the strategic planning and delivery of all engineering and dredging operations within the City Docks Maintain and ensure a robust asset management approach to all the Harbours infrastructure Ensure the safe, efficient, and effective maintenance of harbour infrastructure, in line with Health & Safety regulations and environmental standards (EMAS/ISO14001). Provide expert technical guidance and strategic direction to the engineering team. Oversee the planning, budgeting, and execution of all capital programmes and projects. Manage supplier contracts, ensuring delivery of improvements and compliance with council standards. Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to support the Harbour Act/Order, Byelaws, and wider council policies.

About You:

Proven leadership experience in marine or civil engineering, infrastructure management, or a related field. Strong understanding of harbour operations, dredging, and environmental compliance. Excellent project management and contract negotiation skills. Ability to work strategically while managing complex operational demands. A commitment to safety, sustainability, and continuous improvement.




This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of Bristol's historic harbour, ensuring its resilience and functionality for generations to come. You'll be part of a passionate team dedicated to preserving and enhancing one of the city's most important assets.

Why Bristol City Council?

At Bristol City Council, we go that extra mile for our people; we offer a work environment which is fast moving and supportive, giving you the chance to use your skills and develop new ones within a high-profile organisation. For the majority of our roles hybrid working arrangements are available, giving teams the opportunity to work in a way that suits them, balancing service need and individual choice - mixing both home and office working.

Join us and you'll receive an excellent rewards package including membership of the Local Government Pension scheme, and a generous annual leave allowance. In addition, you'll be working in a supportive environment where you'll have the chance to make Bristol a better place and contribute to its future.

How do I apply?

If you share our values and are ready to be part of our exciting journey please select the apply button below.

To be shortlisted for interview you'll need to demonstrate how you meet each of the essential criteria in the Person Specification within the Further Information section of your application. On occasion we will receive high numbers of applications, we may then shortlist against the desirable criteria along with the essential criteria, so if you can, please demonstrate how you meet this in your application.

We're a Disability Confident employer which means we value recruiting and retaining disabled people. Any job applicants who consider themselves to be disabled and meet the essential criteria in the Person Specification are guaranteed an interview. We'll make reasonable adjustments throughout the interview process and provide continued workplace support throughout your career.

For further information, please refer to the and Person Specification or alternatively, please contact Cliff Brand, Head of Service

cliff.brand@bristol.gov.uk

Bristol City Council strives to have a workforce that reflects the communities it serves, we are therefore committed to ensuring diversity in our hiring process. We welcome, develop and promote people from all sections of the community. Appointments will be made on merit.

The personal information section (including your name) you'll complete as part of the application form will not be visible to hiring managers, but is used confidentially to make sure that everyone is treated fairly.