Section Engineer

Think Recruitment
Section Engineer – Highways (Major Projects)

Location: Oxfordshire
Sector: Civil Engineering / Infrastructure

Role Overview

We are seeking a driven and technically strong Section Engineer to support the delivery of major highways infrastructure schemes across Oxfordshire, including complex reinforced concrete viaduct structures and large-scale earthworks operations.

The Section Engineer will take responsibility for a defined section of works, ensuring technical compliance, quality assurance, programme adherence and effective coordination of subcontractors and site teams.

Key Responsibilities

1. Technical & Engineering Management

• Manage engineering control and setting out for highways, viaduct and earthworks packages.

• Interpret drawings, specifications and technical standards.

• Prepare and review method statements, risk assessments and inspection & test plans (ITPs).

• Ensure works are delivered in accordance with approved designs and contract requirements.

• Liaise with the design team to resolve technical queries (RFIs/TQs).

2. Programme & Planning Support

• Assist in short-term planning and coordination of works within your section.

• Monitor progress against programme and identify potential delays.

• Support re-sequencing of works to mitigate programme risks.

• Coordinate interfaces between structural, drainage, pavement and earthworks activities.

3. Quality Assurance & Compliance

• Implement quality management systems on site.

• Maintain accurate site records including as-builts, material approvals and inspection reports.

• Ensure compliance with Inspection & Test Plans and hold/witness points.

• Manage testing regimes (concrete, compaction, materials testing).

• Support audits and ensure works meet required standards (e.g., Specification for Highway Works).

4. Earthworks & Structures Delivery

• Oversee bulk earthworks operations (cut & fill, embankment construction, capping layers, soil stabilisation).

• Support reinforced concrete works for viaduct structures (foundations, piers, abutments, decks).

• Ensure temporary works are constructed in line with approved designs.

• Work closely with surveyors and subcontractors to maintain accuracy and productivity.

5. Commercial & Reporting

• Assist in measurement and record-keeping for progress and valuation purposes.

• Contribute to early identification of variations and change events (NEC3/NEC4).

• Maintain daily diaries and photographic records.

• Support cost control through efficient planning and resource coordination.

6. Health, Safety & Environmental Compliance

• Promote a strong safety culture within your section.

• Ensure works are carried out in accordance with CDM Regulations and company SHE procedures.

• Conduct briefings and ensure workforce understanding of RAMS.

• Monitor environmental compliance including earthworks material management and drainage controls.

Essential Requirements

• Proven experience as a Section Engineer or Site Engineer on highways or heavy civil engineering projects.

• Experience in reinforced concrete structures and/or large-scale earthworks.

• Strong setting out and surveying knowledge (total stations, GPS).

• Working knowledge of NEC contracts (NEC3/NEC4).

• CSCS (Gold or Black Card).

• Degree or HNC/HND in Civil Engineering or related discipline.

• Full UK driving licence.

Desirable

• Temporary Works Supervisor (TWS) qualification.

• Experience working on National Highways frameworks.

• Knowledge of Specification for Highway Works (SHW).

• CAT & Genny certification.

• First Aid at Work.

Personal Attributes

• Strong technical capability and attention to detail.

• Proactive and solution-oriented approach.

• Excellent communication and coordination skills.

• Ability to manage multiple work fronts.

• Collaborative team player with leadership potential.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and car allowance

• Pension and private healthcare

• Career progression within a major infrastructure contractor

• Professional development support (ICE training agreement, if applicable)

• Opportunity to work on flagship highways schemes shaping infrastructure in Oxfordshire

To apply please send your CV to (url removed)