Job Description

Job title: Principal Mechanical Design Engineer - Water Sector
Location: Reading
Hours: 36 hours per week (Hybrid working available)
Salary: 60,000 - 80,000 + 5,8000 car allowance
An excellent opportunity has arisen for an experienced Principal Mechanical Design Engineer to take a leading role within a forward-thinking organisation supporting major water and wastewater infrastructure programmes.
This position offers the chance to influence engineering strategy, guide standards, and provide expert leadership across technically challenging projects, while contributing to sustainable asset delivery and innovation in the sector.
Role Overview
The successful candidate will act as a senior technical authority for mechanical engineering, responsible for shaping project requirements, driving engineering quality, and delivering robust solutions. Key responsibilities include:

• Defining clear and accurate technical requirements to support effective project delivery
• Enhancing mechanical asset standards to improve performance and efficiency
• Leading the design and assurance of mechanical systems within water and wastewater environments
• Overseeing technically focused projects and providing mentorship to engineering teams
• Providing technical sign-off and assurance throughout project lifecycle stages
• Supporting the evaluation and introduction of new technologies

First Off - What's In It For You?

• 65,000 - 80,000 depending on experience, plus 5,800 car allowance
• Annual bonus and performance-linked reward scheme
• 26 days annual leave (rising with length of service) plus bank holidays
• Private medical healthcare and wellbeing support
• Additional benefits including life assurance, professional support schemes, and various employee incentives

Experience & Qualifications
To be considered, applicants should demonstrate:

• Degree-level qualification (or equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering
• Chartered status through a recognised professional body
• Strong background in relevant disciplines such as sludge treatment, biogas/CHP, water and wastewater treatment systems, pumping and pipework, or process equipment

Skills Required