Principal Mechanical Engineer

About Us

Hoare Lea is a human‑centric and planet‑conscious engineering consultancy. We offer intelligent and sustainable solutions to complex design challenges for the built environment throughout the UK and further afield.

We provide a wide range of engineering and consultancy services, including acoustics, air quality, building services (MEP), fire, lighting, security and sustainability to name but a few. Together, our highly skilled teams use technical expertise and problem‑solving skills to bring buildings to life. We ensure that whatever the building, its design is outstanding, and its operations meet the needs of the communities it serves.

We are as committed to providing an environment where everyone can realise their unique potential. In joining Hoare Lea, you will experience a business that enriches your knowledge, supports your wellbeing, and welcomes your individuality. You’ll have the opportunity to participate in our 9‑day fortnight scheme, thriving community groups, varied social and networking events, and extensive professional and technical development schemes.

We also offer an extensive benefits package, including private medical cover, electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme, stock options, and up to 30 days of annual leave.

We have a brand‑new opportunity for a Principal Engineer to join our Mechanical team based in Manchester. Hoare Lea has maintained an office there for many years, developing strong relationships with clients across the region, and working on a variety of local, regional and international projects.

We have a proven track record working within the Residential, Commercial, Healthcare, Science & Research and Mission Critical & Data Centre sectors. Working alongside a range of specialist engineers and consultants, you will be joining a collaborative, knowledgeable, highly engaged team who love what they do and offer a supportive, flexible, and high‑performing work culture.

As a Principal Engineer you will be responsible for supporting and delivering designs for a range of project types and sizes. You will work within a multidisciplinary team of engineers and support staff to deliver a consistent high‑quality service for clients, ensuring that repeat and new business opportunities are developed and profitability is achieved.

In this key and varied role, you can expect to:

• Deal successfully with clients and other professionals to foster and maintain good relationships and create future opportunities.
• Promote the full range of services offered by Hoare Lea and contribute to bid preparation.
• Define and agree brief with client, take ownership and consistently deliver profitable schemes.
• Lead larger‑scale schemes and coordinate all disciplines, being the main client point of contact throughout a project.
• Support in developing and leading a high‑performing local team and contribute to staff development.
• Manage and prioritise the workload of a project team, including specialist groups, and effectively delegate, manage and check work undertaken by others.
• Monitor project expenditure and report cost and resource requirements to the management team.
• Ensure quality standards and technical accuracy are delivered and manage and mitigate risks to the business.

To be successful in this role you’ll need:

• Proven experience working as a Mechanical Engineer or closely related role, with a track record delivering on a variety of complex projects.
• Understanding of all mechanical services including heating, ventilation and air conditioning.
• Experience working in a multi‑disciplinary environment, with excellent communication skills with both internal and external clients, and a team‑based work approach.
• Familiarity with relevant software/tools such as Revit and AutoCAD.
• Self‑awareness, an open mind, and a spirit of generosity.
• Knowledge of relevant British Standards.
• Consultancy experience.
• Previous consultancy experience, with an appreciation of the importance of complementary specialisms such as acoustics, fire engineering and computer modelling in building design, and the ability to analyse and interpret their impact on your work.

To apply, simply complete a CV profile and submit your application, or for further information please contact

If shortlisted, one of our recruitment team will be in touch to arrange an introductory call (about 30 minutes) to discuss the role and your experience in more detail. From there, successful candidates will be invited to attend a panel interview, either via Microsoft Teams or in person at one of our offices.

If there are adjustments or accommodations that we can put in place to help you participate and give your best at any stage of the recruitment process (whether relating to disability, neurodivergence or anything else) please let us know.