Design Engineer (Mechanical)

Piping Design Engineer | £450–£500/day | UK
Location: Brighton
Type: Permanent or Contract
Salary: Up to £70,000 (perm) or £450–£500 per day (contract)
We’re seeking experienced Clean Water Piping Design Engineers to join our growing water infrastructure design team, working on major clean water transmission and distribution projects for leading UK water utilities.
This is an opportunity to take ownership of end-to-end system design, from reservoir connections through to delivery networks, ensuring safe, sustainable, and efficient potable water supply systems.
You’ll be responsible for designing and optimising clean water systems using modern design tools and 3D modelling software. Your expertise in hydraulics, pressure management, pipe material selection, and layout design will be crucial to delivering high-performing, long-life infrastructure that meets all regulatory and quality standards.
Key Responsibilities
* Design and develop clean water piping networks connecting reservoirs, pump stations, and distribution systems.
* Optimise pipe diameter, material, and layout to ensure efficient flow and pressure management.
* Use 3D design software (AutoCAD, Civil 3D, Bentley, Revit, or equivalent) to produce and review piping layouts and models.
* Conduct hydraulic analysis, flow simulations, and stress calculations to validate system integrity.
* Select suitable pipe materials based on cost, durability, and compliance with potable water standards.
* Support construction teams with technical input, design validation, and maintenance planning.
* Ensure designs comply with DWI, WRAS, Water Industry Standards, and relevant environmental legislation.
* Prepare design reports, calculations, and as-built documentation.
* Collaborate with clients, contractors, and multidisciplinary teams to deliver efficient, safe, and cost-effective water systems.
About You
* Degree in Mechanical, Civil, or Environmental Engineering (or equivalent).
* Strong background in clean water network or pipeline design.
* Experience with UK water utilities (e.g., Southern Water, Northumbrian Water, Thames Water, Severn Trent, United Utilities).
* Familiarity with pipe sizing, layout design, and hydraulic modelling.
* Working knowledge of AutoCAD, Civil 3D, Bentley OpenFlows, EPANET, or similar tools.
* Understanding of water quality, pressure management, and contamination prevention principles.
* Strong technical report writing and communication skills.
* Commitment to safety, sustainability, and quality assurance.
What’s on Offer
* Salary up to £70,000 (permanent) or £450–£500/day (contract).
* Opportunity to work on nationwide water infrastructure projects.
* Professional growth and continued learning in a highly collaborative engineering environment.
* Flexible working arrangements depending on project requirements