Senior Engineer - Design (Section 278 & Section 38)

Shape Future Developments: Senior Engineer – Section 278 & Section 38

About the Role
We are seeking an experienced Senior Engineer – Section 278 & Section 38 to lead the technical vetting and delivery of highway works associated with new developments across Derbyshire. This role is pivotal in ensuring that all infrastructure delivered under developer agreements meets adoptable standards and supports the long-term resilience of the highway network.

You will act as the main technical contact for developers, managing the design approval process and overseeing compliance with legal and technical requirements. The role also involves managing financial aspects of agreements, including securing bonds, calculating fees, and authorising payments.

This is a senior technical position requiring strong leadership, advanced design knowledge, and a commitment to quality and collaboration.

Key Responsibilities
• Lead technical vetting and project management for Section 278 and Section 38 agreements.
• Ensure new infrastructure meets adoptable standards and complies with relevant legislation.
• Prepare and review technical specifications, drawings, and risk assessments.
• Manage financial aspects of agreements, including bonds and payments.
• Liaise with developers, contractors, and internal teams to ensure efficient delivery.
• Provide authoritative technical advice and mentorship to colleagues.
• Champion innovation and continuous improvement in design and delivery.
• Ensure compliance with CDM 2015 and other statutory obligations.

About You
• Substantial experience in highways design and developer-led schemes.
• Strong knowledge of Section 278 and Section 38 processes and legal requirements.
• Proficiency in CAD and relevant design software.
• Excellent project management and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Commitment to safety, sustainability, and quality.
Essential Qualifications and Experience
• HNC/HND or equivalent in Civil Engineering or related discipline.
• Demonstrable experience managing complex highways projects and agreements.
• Strong understanding of relevant legislation and technical standards.

Desirable
• Membership of professional institutions (e.g., ICE, CIHT, IHE).
• Project management qualifications (e.g., PRINCE2, APM).
• Experience as Principal Designer under CDM regulations.
• Familiarity with NEC contracts and collaborative delivery models.
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Support & Benefits:
• Flexi Time Scheme: Up to two days flexi leave every four weeks (pro rata for part-time employees), subject to service needs.
• Generous Annual Leave Scheme: Ensures a healthy work-life balance.
• Local Government Pension Scheme: Provides financial security.
• Wellbeing Support Framework: Includes OH physician services, physiotherapy, CBT, and in-house counselling.
• Employee Wellbeing Support: Fast track physiotherapy, confidential psychological support services, Employee Assistance Programme, and “Wisdom” app.
• Electric/Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle Salary Sacrifice Scheme: Encourages environmentally friendly commuting options.
• Our Derbyshire Rewards: a package of benefits and discounts.

Apply Now
If you’re ready to lead the design and approval of highways infrastructure that shapes Derbyshire’s future developments, we’d love to hear from you!

📅 Closing Date: Sunday 1st February 2026
📝 Interview Date: 9th to 13th February

Candidates who have previously applied and were unsuccessful need not reapply.

Hways2026

This is an Internal vacancy and is only available to employees of Derbyshire County Council, including temporary and relief employees and agency workers engaged by the Council. Employees specifically identified as ‘individually at risk’ of redundancy have priority interview status, and employees on pay protection have guaranteed interview status, for vacancies at the same grade or below. When applying for jobs please note that it is your responsibility to ensure that this status clearly stated on your application form. Please ask your manager if you are unsure of your status.School based employees who fall under the responsibility of the Governing body of an LA School are only able to apply for these posts if they are subject to notices of redundancy issued by the relevant school