Principal Geotechnical Engineer

Join to apply for the Principal Geotechnical Engineer role at Bridgewater Consultancy UK Ltd Join one of the UK's leading independent engineering consultancies, known for delivering high-quality, sustainable solutions across civil, structural, environmental, geotechnical and transport disciplines. You'll become part of a collaborative, people-focused team where your professional growth and technical curiosity are genuinely supported. Due to a increase in workload, the geotechnical and environmental team are seeking a Principal Geotechnical Engineer who will manage projects, mentor junior professionals, and contribute to business development. This is a key, permanent leadership position. Key Responsibilities Lead and manage a growing multidisciplinary geotechnical and environmental team (engineering geologists, geo-environmental and geotechnical engineers). Act as a project manager: define project scope, lead technical teams, and deliver to time, quality, and budget. Provide strong technical leadership, applying high-level geotechnical, geological, and environmental engineering expertise. Support business development efforts — build and maintain client relationships, identify new opportunities, and contribute to winning new work. Deliver across a broad range of sectors: infrastructure, industrial, residential, commercial, and leisure developments. Ensure solutions are technically robust, cost-effective, and aligned with client needs. Qualifications Experience scoping and reviewing ground risk: preliminary risk assessments, intrusive ground investigations, sampling, and lab testing. A working knowledge of contaminated-land legislation and planning processes, supported by geo-environmental specialists. Strong interpretative report writing: ground-modelling, soil/rock characterisation, geotechnical behaviour. Capability to prepare, review, and authorize comprehensive ground investigation and geotechnical design reports. Expertise in detailed design for: Slope stability Foundations (shallow and deep) Earthworks and reinforced earthworks Retaining structures Soil and rock engineering Ground improvement techniques Natural cavities or mineral workings Temporary works (e.g., crane platforms, working platforms) Leadership & Development Mentor and develop junior geotechnical and environmental staff. Provide technical governance, ensuring best practice and consistency across reports and designs. Support and drive continuous improvement within the team. Business & Client Engagement Build and nurture a client base by providing high-quality, technically sound, and efficient geotechnical solutions. Contribute to fee proposals, pitches, and bids. Work with the wider business to align geotechnical strategy with broader business goals. Candidate Profile Ideally Chartered Geotechnical Engineer, Chartered Engineer, or similarly qualified geologist/engineering geologist. Experience and people management experience. Feel confident across the full geotechnical project lifecycle: risk assessment, design, reporting, and site work. Are committed to mentoring and developing less experienced team members. Are commercially aware and have some experience in business development / client relationship building. What's In It For You A permanent role in a growing, technically respected multi-disciplinary consultancy. Opportunity to lead and shape geotechnical work in your region. Meaningful mentorship responsibilities and a chance to grow a team.Exposure to varied and challenging projects across sectors. Competitive compensation and benefits (depending on office policy). 25 days holidays + Bank holidays (long term service holidays) Medical & Health Cover Bonus Scheme (Loyalty) Cycle to work scheme Seniority level Mid-Senior level Employment type Full-time Job function Engineering, Project Management, and Design Industries Civil Engineering, Environmental Services, and Engineering Services Shrewsbury, England, United Kingdom #J-18808-Ljbffr