Principal/Senior Civil Engineer (highways)

  • ERSG
  • Portsmouth, Hampshire
  • 14/04/2026
Full time Construction Civil Engineer Management Architect and Design

Job Description

Senior/Principal Civil Engineer - Consultancy (UK)

An established and growing engineering consultancy is seeking Senior and Principal Civil Engineers to join its expanding team. This is a fantastic opportunity to work on a diverse range of development and infrastructure projects within a collaborative and forward-thinking environment.

These roles offer the chance to take on increasing responsibility depending on experience, from technical delivery through to project leadership and team management.

The Role

You will be involved in the design and delivery of civil engineering projects, primarily focused on development infrastructure including drainage and highways. Depending on your level, you will also take on client management, mentoring, and leadership responsibilities.

Key Responsibilities

  • Design and deliver drainage strategies and detailed designs (including SuDS)
  • Produce and review technical reports, including Flood Risk Assessments
  • Design highways and infrastructure (S278/S38 schemes)
  • Manage projects across drainage, external works, and highways elements
  • Attend and represent the business at client and stakeholder meetings
  • Support and mentor junior engineers
  • Contribute to project planning, resourcing, and delivery
  • (Principal level) Lead teams, manage performance, and support business development

Requirements

Essential:

  • 5+ years' consultancy experience in civil engineering
  • Degree or HND in Civil Engineering
  • IEng (or working towards/equivalent level)
  • Strong drainage design experience, including SuDS
  • Experience with InfoDrainage, MicroDrainage, or Causeway Flow
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD and 3D design software (eg Site3D)
  • Experience delivering projects across drainage, highways, and external works
  • Strong communication and client-facing skills

Desirable:

  • Highways design experience (S278/S38)
  • Experience working on development projects (eg residential schemes)
  • Knowledge of the planning process (pre-app through to condition discharge)
  • Line management or mentoring experience
  • Experience preparing fee proposals or supporting business development
  • On-site or construction stage experience

What's on Offer

  • Opportunity to join a growing and well-regarded consultancy
  • Clear career progression (Senior - Principal level)
  • Exposure to a wide variety of projects and clients
  • Supportive and collaborative team environment

Additional Information

  • Applicants must have the right to work in the UK (no sponsorship available)
  • Flexible working options available

ersg are an equal opportunities employer; we are committed to promoting equality of opportunity for all job applicants. We do not discriminate against applicants on the basis of age, sex, race, disability, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, gender reassignment or religious background; all decisions are based on merit.