Lead the Future of Transport Infrastructure
Join a team shaping the next generation of transport infrastructure across Ireland and the UK. As Principal Engineer – Alignment, you’ll lead delivery of complex, high‑value projects using cutting‑edge design and modelling tools. This senior technical role requires leadership, innovation and lasting impact.
Purpose & Scope of the Role
This role is central to the successful delivery of major transport infrastructure schemes. You’ll lead a growing team of alignment designers, overseeing the technical delivery of alignment modelling and geometry design packages. Working closely with the Alignment Lead, project managers, and multidisciplinary teams, you’ll ensure outputs meet the highest standards of quality, safety and innovation.
You’ll manage resources, review technical deliverables, and present design solutions to clients. As a senior figure in a 155‑strong Transport and Civils Sector, you’ll contribute to significant projects in the UK and Ireland, including schemes valued up to €500 million. You’ll also mentor junior engineers and uphold internal QA and BIM standards, reporting to both the Alignment Team Lead and Business Unit Director.
Responsibilities
Lead the delivery of alignment design packages on flagship projects such as the A9 Tay to Ballinluig and the N5 Ballaghaderreen to Scramoge. Drive project management, team utilisation and budget control while supporting tendering and maintaining a strong pipeline of work.
As the role evolves, take on full‑lifecycle project delivery—from concept to construction and handover—and contribute to strategic planning and design coordination. Your leadership will keep the team at the forefront of industry standards and innovation.
Help shape the future of the business, strengthen client relationships and identify new opportunities. With the upcoming rebrand to Tetra Tech in March 2026, gain access to global collaboration and career progression within an international network.
Technical Skills & Knowledge
In‑depth knowledge of Irish and UK highway design standards, including TII publications, TII Project Management Guidelines, and guidance from the National Transport Authority and Department of Transport. Apply these standards rigorously across all stages of project delivery.
Advanced proficiency in road design software – expert user of OpenRoads and Civil 3D, able to produce high‑quality outputs and interrogate complex models. Translate design intent into accurate digital models, ensuring seamless integration with BIM workflows and multidisciplinary design environments.
Leadership & Team Management
Proven leader capable of managing and motivating design teams to deliver high‑quality outputs on time and within budget. Experience leading both employer‑led and contractor‑led projects across all stages of the project lifecycle. Strategic mindset, ability to manage resources, forecast workloads and contribute to business development and tendering activities. Mentor and develop junior engineers, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and technical excellence.
Collaboration in Multidisciplinary Environments
Effective collaboration within large multidisciplinary teams, including structures, drainage, environmental, geotechnical and planning. Navigate challenges of geographically dispersed teams using digital collaboration tools and clear communication to maintain alignment and momentum.
Communication & Client Engagement
Clear, confident, proactive communication with clients, project managers and internal stakeholders. Present technical information effectively and represent the business at technical meetings. Produce high‑quality reports, design documentation and client correspondence. Mentor junior staff and provide constructive feedback and professional development support.
Expected Qualifications, Training, And Experience
Degree in Civil Engineering or a related discipline
Chartered Engineer status (CEng MICE or equivalent)
Extensive experience in alignment and geometry design for transport infrastructure
Demonstrable leadership experience in a design consultancy environment
Beneficial Qualifications, Training, & Experience
Postgraduate qualifications in transport or infrastructure engineering
Project Management certification (e.g., PRINCE2, APM)
Experience with BIM Level 2 standards and digital delivery platforms
Familiarity with international design standards and practices
Submit Your Application
Submit your application today and discover what’s possible at Tetra Tech RPS Consulting.
Equal Employment Opportunity
In alignment with the Equality Act 2010, we will make reasonable adjustments to support candidates and employees requiring additional arrangements. Please inform us if you need accommodations during the recruitment process or in your day‑to‑day role.
Flexible Working Options
Flexible working options are available in this role, with working patterns agreed collaboratively between employees and line managers to support individual wellbeing and optimal performance.
Why Join Tetra Tech RPS?
At Tetra Tech RPS, our people are our success. We thrive on solving the problems that matter—whether in urbanisation, natural resources or sustainability. With a collaborative culture, agile working and access to some of the brightest minds in the industry, we empower our teams to deliver exceptional outcomes while building fulfilling careers.
In 2023, RPS became part of Tetra Tech, a global leader in consulting and engineering with 30,000 employees across 550 offices in 120+ countries. Join us and be part of a connected, forward‑thinking community that’s shaping a better future.
#J-18808-Ljbffr