Principal Engineer – Bridges & Structures

As a family‑friendly employer, we offer flexible working arrangements and benefits including 18 weeks of universal paid parental leave. We are proud to foster an inclusive culture that supports gender equity, LGBTI+ inclusion and First Nations representation, with access to strong professional networks, role models, and mentoring and sponsorship programs.

Infrastructure

At SMEC, we understand that our continued success within the infrastructure market is the result of building long-term client relationships. We listen and understand the specific needs of our clients and deliver a complete value chain of services to provide sustainable solutions across major infrastructure projects worldwide.

The Role

We’re seeking a seasoned structural engineer looking to lead transformative infrastructure projects to join our Perth team as Principal Engineer – Bridges & Structures.

This is more than just a technical role — it’s a strategic leadership opportunity for an engineer who thrives on responsibility, client engagement, and driving engineering excellence at scale.

You’ll be key member of our National (over 100 specialist bridge engineers in Australia) and International Bridges & Structures team, helping to secure and deliver high-profile projects with a focus on innovation, quality, and technical rigour, while playing a key part in mentoring talent and shaping the long-term success of the group.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and review structural design across bridges, retaining walls, and complex transport infrastructure.
• Guide multidisciplinary teams to deliver high-quality engineering outcomes, on time and within budget.
• Oversee project delivery, ensuring robust design, compliance, and client satisfaction.
• Develop and strengthen relationships with key clients and stakeholders.
• Contribute to business development and strategic planning, including input into team resourcing and performance objectives.
• Support professional development and retention of junior engineers through coaching and mentoring.

About You

You are a senior engineer with strong technical capabilities and a track record of delivering major transport infrastructure projects. You’re comfortable managing both people and complex designs — and ready to take the next step in your leadership and technical career.

You will bring:

• A Bachelor’s Degree in Civil/Structural Engineering (or equivalent).
• 15+ years' experience in structural bridge design within the transport infrastructure sector (preferably Australia-based).
• Demonstrated ability to lead and deliver engineering projects >$1M.
• Experience across highways, rail, or metro projects within multi-disciplinary teams.
• High proficiency in project management, including budgeting, scheduling, and risk mitigation.
• A strong technical writer capable of reviewing and producing high-quality reports with minimal revision.
• A strategic mindset with an interest in business planning and team growth.
• Willingness to travel domestically (and occasionally internationally).
• Willingness to lead and develop team members
• Experience with bridge / structural inspections or willingness to develop these skills

How To Apply

All applications must be submitted online. To apply, click on the "Apply Now" link below and follow the prompts.

For a confidential discussion regarding this opportunity, please contact Carl Thiedeke – carl.thiedeke@smec.com

To find out more about SMEC, please visit our careers page at www.smec.com/careers

All recruitment activities go through our Resourcing function and currently, this role doesn’t require agency input. Please do not forward resumes directly to SMEC employees/managers; we do not accept unsolicited resumes and are not responsible for any associated fees.

#LI-CT4

At Surbana Jurong, we put talent, hard work, teamwork and a fun workplace together to approach problems and solve them creatively and collaboratively. Join us in making a positive impact on the world!