Technical Lead – Structures & Civils (Wastewater Projects)

Role Objective

This role exists to lead and develop technical excellence in the field of structural and civil engineering for wastewater projects, with a specific focus on Structures, Hydraulics, Tanks, Pumping Stations, Buildings, and Temporary Works. The Technical Lead will ensure that all design activities meet the highest standards of safety, innovation, and performance, supporting the delivery of complex capital programmes for Severn Trent Water. A profound understanding of civil engineering principles across these disciplines is essential, and the individual must be capable of producing, reviewing, and guiding others in the delivery of robust, efficient, and creative structural designs.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the technical strategy and standards for Structures, Hydraulics, Tanks, Pumping Stations, Buildings, and Temporary Works within wastewater projects, ensuring compliance, innovation, and best practice at all stages of design and delivery.
• Oversee and drive the development of outline and detailed structural and civil designs across the above areas, ensuring integration with project requirements and alignment with regulatory frameworks.
• Mentor and support less experienced engineers and apprentices in the creation and delivery of structural designs, fostering technical growth and capability within the design team.
• Champion the adoption and development of new techniques, materials (including concrete, steel, and composite systems), and technologies relevant to civil structures and hydraulic systems.
• Act as the 'go-to' technical expert for all queries relating to Structures, Hydraulics, Tanks, Pumping Stations, Buildings, and Temporary Works within the wastewater capital programme.
• Collaborate closely with other discipline leads and senior stakeholders to deliver integrated design solutions for wastewater projects.
• Establish and maintain robust governance around design delivery for structural and civil works, including assurance of design capability and compliance.
• Develop and promote standard designs and innovative solutions for project efficiency, challenging conventional approaches and encouraging feedback and continuous improvement.
• Ensure lessons learned from post investment reviews and operational feedback are captured and incorporated into ongoing design development and technical standards.
• Build and maintain a strong network with external stakeholders, suppliers, and contractors to stay abreast of industry innovations and best practice.
• Provide technical liaison for new products, construction methods, and ideas in the fields of structures and civils.
• Contribute to the Learning & Development strategy for the design community, ensuring ongoing growth in capability and knowledge specific to structural and civil engineering disciplines.

Experience

• Significant experience providing technical leadership for capital projects in civil and structural engineering, particularly those related to wastewater infrastructure.
• Demonstrable track record in producing or directing the production of structural designs for tanks, pumping stations, buildings, hydraulic systems, and temporary works.
• Experience in other civil engineering sectors (rail, highways, energy) will be considered advantageous, with the ability to translate cross-sector knowledge and best practice into wastewater projects.
• Proven ability to lead design teams, mentor engineers, and drive technical excellence in a multi-disciplinary environment.
• Wide network of industry contacts and strong relationships throughout the supply chain.

Capabilities

• Forward looking and proactive, able to anticipate technical challenges and develop effective design strategies and operational plans for up to 24 months ahead.
• Innovative and able to challenge established solutions, seeking opportunities to improve design and delivery across the supply chain.
• Clear thinking and decisive, capable of making sound judgments in the face of ambiguity and complex technical issues.
• Effective communicator, skilled at articulating both positive and challenging messages to diverse audiences.
• Ability to build key relationships within Severn Trent Water and externally to drive efficiency, innovation, and high standards in structural and civil engineering design.
• Commitment to continual improvement and professional development for self and others.

Qualifications

• Chartered Engineer (e.g. ICE, IStructE or equivalent experience), preferably with recognised experience in civil and structural engineering.
• Full UK driving license.