Associate Director - Airport Civil Engineer

Job Overview

Shape the Future of our cities and environments. Are you ready to take on a senior leadership role shaping the future of major airport infrastructure? Join our Airport Engineering Team and play a pivotal role in defining, leading, and delivering some of the most complex and high‑profile aviation projects in the UK and internationally.

As an Associate Director – Airfield Civil Engineer, you will be a key senior figure within the business, responsible for technical excellence, strategic direction, client relationships and team leadership. You will lead the delivery of complex airfield infrastructure projects across major UK airports—including Heathrow, Gatwick and Manchester—as well as a portfolio of international commissions.

• Lead the delivery of complex airfield infrastructure projects from concept through to detailed design and construction.
• Provide technical and strategic leadership across airport civil engineering projects, with expert knowledge of airport or highways pavement design, materials specification and maintenance.
• Apply analytical capability to airfield pavement design and assessment, translating complex technical data into practical, deliverable engineering solutions.
• Lead and mentor multidisciplinary teams, fostering professional development and high performance.
• Own and manage client relationships, acting as a trusted advisor to key aviation clients.
• Engage proactively with senior stakeholders, including airport operators, airlines, contractors and regulatory bodies.
• Drive innovation in engineering design and delivery approaches, and support business growth through bids, proposals and market development.
• Balance technical excellence, commercial performance and client satisfaction to ensure successful project delivery.

• Chartered Civil Engineer with proven track record of leading airfield infrastructure design from concept through to detailed delivery.
• Several years of design experience within the Airfield Engineering discipline.
• Strong leadership and management skills, with experience coordinating multidisciplinary teams.
• Credibility and confidence to engage with senior stakeholders, including airport operators, airlines, contractors and regulatory bodies.
• High‑quality and innovative design solutions, compliant with UK and international standards.
• Proactive client engagement, work‑winning and business development skills.

This role may require security clearance and offers of employment will be dependent on obtaining the relevant level of clearance. The vetting process is delivered by United Kingdom Security Vetting (UKSV) and may require proof of UK residency for 5 years or longer.

We are an Equal Opportunities Employer and value applications from all backgrounds, cultures and abilities. We are committed to creating a culture where everyone feels that they belong, thrive and develop to be the best we can be.

Enjoy competitive salaries and employee rewards, along with a range of benefits that you can tailor to suit your health, wellbeing, financial and lifestyle choices. Training and professional development opportunities are available to grow your skills and expertise. A hybrid working culture and flexible holiday allowances help you balance a satisfying professional and personal life.