Hays
Principal Mechanical Engineer

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Your new company
A well-established, multi-disciplinary building services consultancy is looking to appoint a Principal Mechanical Engineer to lead and grow their mechanical capability from their Epsom office.
This is a senior technical and leadership role, suited to an experienced engineer who enjoys owning projects, mentoring engineers, and playing a visible role in client delivery.
Your new role
As Principal Mechanical Engineer, you will take responsibility for the mechanical design and delivery of complex projects, from concept through to completion. You will act as the technical authority within the team, whilst supporting the wider management and growth of the office.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading mechanical design on medium to large-scale projects
- Overseeing and reviewing designs produced by senior and intermediate engineers
- Providing technical guidance, mentorship, and quality assurance
- Attending client meetings and representing the business at project level
- Supporting fee proposals, resourcing, and project planning
- Working closely with electrical, sustainability, and BIM teams
Reasons to use Rodeo
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?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
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Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
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.
See breakdownIt searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Why you're a good match
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.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
Projects
The role offers exposure to a strong and varied project portfolio, including:
- Large commercial office developments and CAT A/CAT B fit-outs
- Healthcare and life sciences facilities
- Higher education and research buildings
- High-end residential and mixed-use schemes
- Complex refurbishments and retrofit projects with a strong net-zero focus
Many of the schemes are technically challenging, design-led, and unsustainable, offering real scope for an engineer who wants to remain hands-on at a senior level.
What you'll need to succeed
- Degree qualified in Mechanical Engineering or Building Services
- Chartered or working toward CEng status (CIBSE / IMechE)
- Strong background in UK building services design consultancy
- Proven experience leading projects and managing engineers
- Confident communicator with clients and internal stakeholders


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What you'll get in return
- Salary circa £80,000 (depending on experience)
- Annual bonus
- Enhanced pension
- Hybrid / flexible working
- Clear progression and leadership opportunities
What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career.
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