Section Engineer (Earthworks)

Overview

We are looking for an experienced Section Engineer to join our delivery team supporting major earthworks operations on the HS2 project in Brackley. The successful candidate will lead engineering activities across assigned sections of work, ensuring safe, efficient, and quality-driven execution on one of the UK’s flagship infrastructure schemes.

Key Responsibilities

Lead engineering supervision for large-scale earthworks including bulk excavation, embankment construction, cut and fill operations, soil stabilisation, and drainage installation.

Ensure precise setting out, survey control, and verification of design levels and tolerances.

Oversee a team of Site Engineers, ensuring accurate QA documentation, as-built records, and compliance with HS2 standards.

Support programme planning and contribute to short-term planning (Look-Ahead Programmes / 2-4 week plans).

Monitor productivity and progress, preparing reports and identifying any deviations or risks early.

Liaise closely with Project Engineers, Supervisors, subcontractors, and client representatives to support smooth delivery.

Assist with resource coordination including plant and labour scheduling across the section.

Lead engineering input into RAMS, temporary works, permits and assurance processes.

Drive exceptional Health, Safety, and Environmental performance, promoting best practices and HS2 behavioural safety requirements.

Work closely with environmental teams to ensure adherence to soil management, material classifications, and ecological controls.

Skills & Experience

Proven background as a Section Engineer or Senior Site Engineer on major infrastructure projects.

Strong earthworks experience is essential — highways or rail exposure beneficial.

Proficient in surveying equipment (GPS, Total Station) and digital record systems (e.g., BIM-based tools).

Strong understanding of construction sequencing and geotechnical considerations for large earthworks operations.

Excellent leadership, communication and stakeholder management abilities.

Qualifications

Degree or HNC/HND in Civil Engineering or similar discipline.

CSCS card required; SSSTS/SMSTS and Temporary Works Coordinator/ Supervisor advantageous.

Full UK driving licence