Structures and Geotechnical Design Lead

Salary details: £ - £

Lead Complex Infrastructure Design: Structures and Geotechnical Design Lead

About the Role
We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Structures and Geotechnical Design Lead to provide expert technical leadership across a diverse portfolio of capital projects. This pivotal role will lead the design and delivery of complex infrastructure schemes, including bridges, retaining walls, culverts, landslip remediation, and geotechnical investigations.

You will manage a team of engineers and technicians, ensuring that all design work meets the highest standards of safety, quality, and efficiency. Working closely with internal teams and external partners such as Network Rail, the Environment Agency, and the British Geological Survey, you’ll drive innovation, sustainability, and a “right first time” ethos across all projects.

This role also includes deputising for the Highway Design Manager and contributing to strategic forums, project coordination groups, and partnership collaborations.

Key Responsibilities
• Lead the design and delivery of complex structures and geotechnical schemes.
• Manage and mentor a team of engineers and technicians.
• Ensure compliance with Eurocode 7, DMRB, CDM 2015, and other relevant standards.
• Coordinate with external agencies and partners on technical matters.
• Oversee project budgets and ensure value for money.
• Promote sustainable design and carbon reduction in infrastructure delivery.
• Provide technical leadership in multi-disciplinary project teams.
• Deputise for the Highway Design Manager in strategic engagements.

About You
• Substantial experience in structural and geotechnical design within highways or civil engineering.
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• Strong understanding of technical standards, specifications, and contract management.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities.
• Commitment to safety, sustainability, and continuous improvement.

Essential Qualifications and Experience
• HNC/HND or equivalent in Civil Engineering or related discipline.
• Extensive experience in highways authority or infrastructure design.
• Demonstrable experience managing complex and politically sensitive projects.

Desirable
• Membership of professional institutions (e.g., ICE, CIHT).
• Experience with NEC contracts and Early Contractor Involvement (ECI).
• Proficiency in design and modelling software.
• Relevant industry qualifications (e.g., HERS/ECS card holder).
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Support & Benefits:
• Flexi Time Scheme: Up to two days flexi leave every four weeks (pro rata for part-time employees), subject to service needs.
• Generous Annual Leave Scheme: Ensures a healthy work-life balance.
• Local Government Pension Scheme: Provides financial security.
• Wellbeing Support Framework: Includes OH physician services, physiotherapy, CBT, and in-house counselling.
• Employee Wellbeing Support: Fast track physiotherapy, confidential psychological support services, Employee Assistance Programme, and “Wisdom” app.
• Electric/Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle Salary Sacrifice Scheme: Encourages environmentally friendly commuting options.
• Our Derbyshire Rewards: a package of benefits and discounts.

Apply Now
If you’re ready to lead the design of Derbyshire’s most critical infrastructure projects and shape the future of our highways network, we’d love to hear from you!

📅 Closing Date: Sunday 1st February 2026
📝 Interview Date: 9th to 13th February

Candidates who have previously applied and were unsuccessful need not reapply.

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Apply now and take the first step towards a fulfilling career with us! By joining Derbyshire County Council you will have access to a range of amazing rewards and employee benefits, including our generous annual leave scheme, excellent local government pension and fantastic employee discounts. To discover more detail about the rewards and benefits available to you, click here

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Important: Derbyshire County Council holds a sponsorship licence, but this role does not offer visa sponsorship. Please apply only if you already have the right to work in the UK without sponsorship, as applications that do not meet this requirement will be rejected.

We welcome applications from individuals who share our values — being Collaborative, Innovative, Empowered and Accountable. These values describe who we are and what we stand for as a council. They help shape our culture, encourage consistent behaviour and guide how we work together to make a positive difference for both our employees and the residents we serve.