As part of Bouygues Construction's Public Works division, VSL International participates in the construction of major technical structures and guarantees their structural safety and durability: transport infrastructure (bridges, tunnels), industrial and energy production structures, and commercial buildings.
VSL's business is based on four areas of expertise:
- Structural systems and technologies
- Civil engineering
- Foundations and soil engineering
- Preservation, structural repairs, renovation and optimization of structures.
VSL has 4,000 employees at 25 locations worldwide (Asia and Oceania, Middle East, Europe, Latin America, Canada).
Project
The Lower Thames Crossing is one of the UK's most significant infrastructure programmes, linking Kent and Essex via the longest road tunnel in the country.
Delivered within a collaborative alliance environment, the project involves complex enabling works, geotechnical operations, deep foundations, soil mixing, and large-scale civil engineering activities essential to the successful delivery of the scheme.
This technically demanding infrastructure programme combines major construction logistics, temporary works, heavy plant operations, and high-risk construction activities within a live project environment.
Role Overview
We are seeking an experienced Design Engineer to support the engineering design and technical delivery of major geotechnical and foundation works on the Lower Thames Crossing project.
Reporting to the Engineering Manager, you will play a key role in developing practical, safe and buildable engineering solutions for deep foundation and geotechnical works. Working closely with Construction Managers, Temporary Works Coordinators, Methods Engineers, Design Consultants and specialist subcontractors, you will ensure that designs are fully coordinated, technically robust and aligned with construction requirements.
This is an excellent opportunity to join a high-profile infrastructure project and contribute to one of the UK's largest and most technically complex civil engineering programmes.
Key Responsibilities
Engineering Design & Technical Delivery
Develop engineering designs and technical solutions for piling, diaphragm wall, ground improvement and deep foundation works.
Prepare and review design calculations, technical reports, drawings and engineering documentation.
Review design information from consultants and ensure designs are practical, buildable and compliant with project requirements.
Coordinate engineering interfaces between design, construction and temporary works teams.
Support value engineering and design optimisation initiatives to improve safety, efficiency and cost.
Assist with the resolution of technical queries and engineering challenges throughout the construction process.
Produce and review engineering specifications, technical submissions and construction documentation.
Design Coordination
Coordinate with designers, construction teams, specialist subcontractors and client representatives throughout the design process.
Ensure engineering deliverables are issued in accordance with project programmes and design milestones.
Participate in design reviews, constructability workshops and technical meetings.
Support change management processes and assess the technical implications of design modifications.
Ensure design information is communicated effectively to site teams.
Quality, Safety & Compliance
Ensure all engineering designs comply with relevant standards, codes of practice and project specifications.
Support the implementation of quality assurance processes throughout the design lifecycle.
Ensure health and safety considerations are incorporated into engineering designs in accordance with CDM requirements.
Contribute to technical risk assessments and design reviews.
Maintain accurate engineering records and document control.
Collaboration & Continuous Improvement
Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary engineering teams across the alliance.
Support innovation and continuous improvement in engineering methods and design processes.
Share technical knowledge and contribute to lessons learned across the project.
Assist in mentoring Graduate and Junior Engineers where appropriate.
Candidate Profile
Education & Qualifications
Degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering or a related discipline.
Working towards or holding Chartered Engineer (ICE or equivalent) status would be advantageous.
Experience
Experience in civil engineering design within major infrastructure or heavy civil engineering projects.
Experience producing or reviewing engineering designs for deep foundations, piling, diaphragm walls, retaining structures or geotechnical works.
Experience coordinating multidisciplinary design activities and supporting construction delivery.
Experience working within highways, rail, tunnelling, marine or major infrastructure environments would be advantageous.
Technical Skills
Strong understanding of geotechnical and structural engineering principles.
Ability to produce and review engineering calculations, drawings and technical reports.
Good understanding of temporary works, construction sequencing and buildability.
Familiarity with Eurocodes, British Standards and relevant design guidance.
Experience using engineering design software and digital engineering tools would be beneficial.
Personal Attributes
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
Highly organised with strong attention to detail.
Collaborative approach with the ability to work effectively across multidisciplinary teams.
Committed to delivering safe, innovative and high-quality engineering solutions.
VSL/Bouygues Construction is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse working environment where everyone is treated fairly and with respect. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. A copy of our Equal Opportunities Policy is available upon request
Interested? Apply now and let's build the great structures of tomorrow together!
