Highways Engineer (Design and Construction)

Description:

Our client, operating within the highways and transportation sector, is currently seeking an Engineer - Highways Design & Construction to join their team on a contract basis. This is an excellent opportunity to support the delivery of highways, traffic, and transport infrastructure projects through the detailed design finalisation, pre-construction, and construction phases.

The successful candidate will work on projects developed through the Project Development Team, assisting in progressing schemes through detailed design review, construction package preparation, and on-site delivery. The role offers the opportunity to manage smaller projects independently while supporting Senior Engineers on more complex schemes.

Key Responsibilities

Design Finalisation & Pre-Construction

Assist in the review and finalisation of highways and traffic engineering designs prior to construction.
Review engineering drawings, specifications, schedules, and technical reports to ensure quality and compliance with relevant standards.
Coordinate design amendments arising from technical reviews, site constraints, and stakeholder requirements.
Support the preparation of construction-ready information and contract documentation.
Assist in coordinating surveys, utility investigations, traffic assessments, and other technical inputs required for project delivery.
Ensure projects obtain the necessary approvals, permits, and statutory consents before construction commences.
Identify project risks and assist in implementing mitigation measures.

Project & Construction Delivery

Manage the delivery of assigned highways and transport schemes through construction and completion.
Support the delivery of larger and more complex projects under the direction of Senior Engineers.
Assist in coordinating contractor activities and monitoring progress against agreed programmes.
Undertake regular site visits to monitor quality, safety, progress, and compliance with specifications.
Maintain project records and provide updates on programme, costs, risks, and issues.
Support project close-out activities, including snagging, defect management, and handover documentation.
Contribute to the successful delivery of:
Highways transport infrastructure projects.
Traffic and project development schemes.
Town centre schemes.
Public realm and regeneration projects.
Section 106 and Section 278 highway works.
Section 38 highway adoption schemes.

Contractor & Consultant Coordination

Liaise with contractors, consultants, utility companies, and developers to support project delivery.
Monitor contractor performance and report any concerns relating to quality, programme, or safety.
Attend and contribute to project meetings, site progress meetings, and technical workshops.
Review contractor submissions, programmes, method statements, and technical information as required.
Assist in resolving routine technical and operational issues arising during construction.

Health, Safety & CDM Responsibilities

Support duties under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations (CDM).
Assist in reviewing Construction Phase Plans, Risk Assessments, and Method Statements.
Undertake site safety inspections and monitor compliance with health and safety requirements.
Ensure health, safety, and welfare considerations are incorporated throughout project delivery.
Escalate safety concerns and compliance issues where necessary.

Traffic Management & Statutory Processes

Assist in coordinating Traffic Management Orders and statutory processes required for project delivery.
Support implementation of temporary traffic management arrangements.
Liaise with internal teams, contractors, and statutory undertakers regarding traffic management requirements.
Monitor progress of approvals, notices, and permit requirements associated with projects.

Financial & Commercial Management

Assist in monitoring project budgets and expenditure.
Support preparation of cost estimates, budget forecasts, and financial reports.
Raise and monitor purchase orders in accordance with procedures.
Monitor project costs and report financial risks or variations to Senior Engineers.
Assist with valuation reviews and contractor payment processes.

Stakeholder Engagement

Respond to enquiries from residents, businesses, Councillors, and stakeholders regarding project activities.
Support consultation and engagement activities during project delivery.
Prepare technical correspondence, briefing notes, and reports.
Assist in investigating and responding to complaints relating to construction activities and project delivery.
Maintain effective working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

Survey, Inspection & Technical Support

Commission and coordinate routine surveys, site investigations, and technical assessments.
Analyse survey information and technical data to support project delivery.
Undertake site inspections and prepare reports on findings and recommendations.
Maintain project documentation, records, and asset information.
Provide technical support to colleagues, contractors, and stakeholders as required.

Job Requirements

Essential Qualifications

Degree, HNC, HND, or equivalent qualification in Civil Engineering, Highway Engineering, or a related discipline.
Membership of, or willingness to work towards membership of, a relevant professional institution such as ICE or CIHT.
Commitment to continuing professional development.

Essential Experience

Experience in highways, transport, civil engineering, or construction project delivery.
Experience reviewing engineering drawings and technical specifications.
Experience supporting construction and contractor management activities.
Experience undertaking site inspections and technical assessments.
Experience working with consultants, contractors, or external stakeholders.
Experience preparing technical reports and project documentation.

Essential Knowledge

Understanding of highway engineering principles and construction practices.
Working knowledge of highways legislation, standards, and guidance.
Understanding of CDM Regulations and health and safety requirements.
Understanding of project management principles.
Basic understanding of contract administration and procurement processes.

Essential Skills

Good project coordination and organisational skills.
Strong communication and stakeholder management abilities.
Ability to review and interpret engineering drawings and technical information.
Good analytical and problem-solving skills.
Ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines.
Competent use of Microsoft Office and relevant engineering software.

Desirable

Experience working within a local authority environment.
Knowledge of Section 38, Section 106, and Section 278 processes.
Experience of Traffic Management Orders and statutory procedures.
Working knowledge of NEC contracts.
Project management qualification or working towards one.

Key Outcomes

Effective progression of projects from design finalisation into construction.
Successful delivery of assigned highways and transport schemes to programme and budget.
High standards of quality, safety, and compliance throughout project delivery.
Effective contractor and stakeholder coordination.
Accurate project records, reporting, and financial management.
Successful completion and handover of schemes with minimal defects and strong customer satisfaction