Senior/Principal Mechanical Engineer

Senior/Principal Mechanical Engineer - Building Services

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Senior/Principal Mechanical Engineer to join and help lead our Building Services team. You will take technical leadership on the design and delivery of innovative MEP solutions across a diverse range of construction projects, from concept through to completion. This is an excellent opportunity to shape project outcomes, mentor junior engineers, and be a key part of our collaborative, multidisciplinary team where communication and bespoke solutions are at the heart of everything we do.

This role is based at our main office, with the possibility of working from our Exeter office.

About Us

We are a multidisciplinary construction consultancy that takes the leg work out of construction projects. With almost ten years of trusted service, we provide in-house expertise across construction and development services. Our Director-led approach ensures exceptional quality of service, and our success is built on relationships - your project is as important to us as it is to you.

We listen, question and challenge, not simply following normal conventions but striving to truly understand your aspirations. Every solution is tailored to your needs and totally bespoke.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design of complex mechanical building services systems including HVAC, domestic water services, and above ground drainage
• Take technical ownership of projects from feasibility through to completion, ensuring design excellence and project delivery
• Prepare and oversee detailed MEP design drawings, specifications, and technical reports using 3D BIM and CAD
• Develop innovative sustainable and energy-efficient solutions that consider maintenance, life cycle, running costs, carbon emissions and end user experience
• Lead on renewable energy systems and large-scale infrastructure projects
• Undertake and review energy modelling, overheating risk assessments, and engineering studies
• Ensure designs comply with current building regulations and provide technical expertise on complex compliance matters
• Lead and collaborate with our in-house multidisciplinary team
• Provide technical leadership and construction site support throughout the build phase
• Chair design team meetings, site visits, and client meetings, representing the mechanical engineering discipline
• Review contractor submissions, technical submittals, and value engineering proposals
• Manage and build strong relationships with clients, contractors, and consultants at a senior level
• Lead fee proposal preparation and project budget management
• Mentor and develop junior engineers, providing technical guidance and professional development support
• Contribute to business development activities and help win new work

Essential Requirements

• BEng or MEng degree in Mechanical Engineering, Building Services Engineering, or related discipline
• Chartered Engineer (CEng) status with IMechE, CIBSE, or IET
• Minimum 8-10 years of post-graduate experience in building services engineering consultancy
• Proven track record of leading complex MEP projects from concept to completion
• Strong technical understanding of mechanical building services design principles
• Advanced proficiency in 3D BIM platforms (Revit MEP or similar) and CAD software
• Extensive knowledge of energy modelling software and techniques
• Comprehensive understanding of building regulations, British Standards, and CIBSE best practice guidance
• Deep familiarity with sustainable design principles, renewable energy systems, and low carbon technologies
• Excellent communication, presentation and client-facing skills
• Demonstrated leadership abilities with experience managing project teams and mentoring junior staff
• Strong commercial awareness and experience managing project budgets and fee proposals
• Relationship-focused with proven ability to win and retain clients
• Experience working across diverse sectors such as healthcare, public buildings, workplace, residential, MOD, infrastructure, industrial, retail, or sports stadia
• Proven track record of delivering projects on programme and within budget

Desirable

• Experience with medical gas services design
• Knowledge of HV/LV systems, emergency lighting, and fire detection systems
• Experience leading BIM Level 2 workflows
• Experience with large-scale infrastructure and utilities projects
• Active involvement in professional institutions such as CIBSE or IMechE

What We Offer

• Competitive senior-level salary commensurate with experience
• Opportunity to take technical leadership and shape the direction of our Building Services team
• Exposure to diverse and challenging projects across multiple sectors
• Director-led mentorship and collaborative working environment
• Clear career progression pathways with potential for associate/director roles
• Work-life balance with flexibility
• The chance to be part of a company that leverages commercial success to lead in training tomorrow's construction professionals
• Involvement in strategic business development and growth opportunities