Principal Mechanical Engineer, Water Sector

Description

The role offers flexible working, with visits to client sites and collaboration across multi‑year frameworks. You will lead multidisciplinary projects from inception to delivery, creating innovative solutions that enhance the environment and improve communities while working closely with civil, electrical, process and mechanical engineers.

• Develop feasibility studies, outline and detailed designs, and provide construction support
• Create design drawings, select mechanical plant, and prepare technical specifications
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including civil, electrical, process, and mechanical engineers
• Ensure high technical quality, contribute to bids, and maintain client relationships
• Manage project budgets, schedules, and deliverables to meet agreed targets
• Design mechanical installations for water and wastewater systems (pumps, screens, valves, odour control)
• Conduct site surveys and liaise with clients, contractors, and suppliers
• Produce layouts, technical specifications, datasheets, and P&IDs for system designs
• Provide innovative MEICA solutions and coordinate with Enterprise Capabilities centres in India, South Africa, and Romania

Requirements

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering with Chartered Engineer status (or progressing) accredited by IMechE
• Proven experience producing, reviewing, and approving engineering reports, designs, drawings, and specifications
• Strong problem‑solving ability and ownership of complex technical issues
• Leadership potential to manage direct reports, mentor engineers, and inspire technical excellence
• Excellent client and stakeholder engagement skills, including team leadership and line management
• Experience in the water and/or wastewater industry

Benefits

Joining AECOM means becoming part of a dynamic Water business of around 700 experts across the UK & Ireland, including 170 specialists in England & Wales. The inclusive, forward‑thinking environment values each contribution, promotes mentorship, and provides opportunities to grow from concept through to completion on projects of any scale.

AECOM offers a range of core and personalised benefits designed to support wellbeing and lifestyle, including a flexible hybrid working model, career development through AECOM University and technical practice networks, volunteering days, and access to industry‑leading technology and global project opportunities.

• Flexible hybrid working model
• Career development via AECOM University, technical practice networks, and volunteering days
• Core and personalised benefits supporting wellbeing and lifestyle
• Access to industry‑leading technology and global project opportunities
• Inclusive environment valuing diversity, neurodiversity, and disability confidence

Training + Development

Interview process

Visa Sponsorship

Security clearance