Skilled Careers
Principal Mechanical Engineer

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Principal Mechanical Design Engineer – Commercial Projects (MEP Contractor)
Location: London
Salary/Package: Up to £75,000 + Car Allowance + Travel + Bonus + Comprehensive Package
Skilled Careers is partnering with one of the most prominent and highly respected MEP contractors in the London market. Known for delivering complex, high-spec engineering solutions, this business is looking for a Principal Mechanical Design Engineer to spearhead the mechanical design delivery across a major portfolio of commercial sector projects.
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a top-tier M&E specialist, take ownership of high-profile commercial developments, and lead a talented team in a dynamic design-and-build environment.
The Role:
As a Principal Mechanical Design Engineer, you will lead the mechanical design process from the pre-construction phase through to final delivery. A significant portion of the current pipeline consists of major commercial projects (including high-end office fit-outs, shell and core developments, and mixed-use commercial spaces). You will be responsible for ensuring that all mechanical designs are robust, fully coordinated, and optimized for seamless construction on site.
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I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
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Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
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You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
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Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the mechanical engineering design on major commercial projects, developing designs from Stage 3/4 through to Stage 5 construction issue.
- Act as the technical lead for mechanical services, attending design team meetings with clients, main contractors, and external consultants.
- Manage, mentor, and develop junior and intermediate mechanical design engineers within the team.
- Work closely with the BIM/CAD teams, Electrical counterparts, and Operational teams to ensure fully clash-resolved and buildable designs.
- Identify opportunities for value engineering and ensure all designs comply with the latest industry regulations and sustainability standards.
About You:
- A proven track record as a Senior or Principal Mechanical Design Engineer, ideally working within a leading M&E contractor or a multi-disciplinary consultancy.
- Extensive and demonstrable experience delivering commercial sector projects in the UK.
- Strong technical background with the ability to manage complex mechanical design packages independently.
- Degree qualified in Mechanical Engineering or Building Services Engineering (Chartered status or working towards CEng is highly advantageous).
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to lead technical discussions and manage key stakeholder relationships.


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The Package:
- Up to £75,000 Base Salary (dependant on experience)
- Generous Car Allowance
- Fully expensed travel
- Performance-related Bonus
- A comprehensive corporate benefits package
How to Apply:
If you are an experienced Principal Mechanical Design Engineer with a strong commercial portfolio looking to join an industry-leading MEP contractor, we would love to hear from you.
For a confidential discussion about this position, please reach out directly:
Matt Jones
Section Manager – Building Services & M&E
📧 mjones@skilledcareers.co.uk
📞 07711 370552
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