Overview
Principal (Technical Director) - Mechanical Engineer role at Bendigo Advertiser. This opportunity is with Beca HunterH2O, the Australian water business of Beca, a large independent advisory, design and engineering consultancy. We are a collaborative team of 300+ water sector specialists delivering smart, resilient outcomes across urban and regional Australia.
About the Employer
Beca HunterH2O combines the capability of water specialists with access to more than 4000 multidisciplinary professionals to bring the best of Beca to clients. Our purpose is to make everyday better, with values of partnership, tenacity, enjoyment and care guiding our work.
The Opportunity
As our pipeline of work grows, we are seeking a Senior Associate / Principal Mechanical Engineer to join our multidisciplinary water team in Newcastle. You will have extensive experience delivering complex engineering solutions in the water sector with a proven track record in mechanical design, commissioning and operations, and troubleshooting across large-scale water and wastewater infrastructure projects—including treatment plants and pump stations (>500L/s). You should bring deep technical expertise in treatment plant and pumping station design: equipment selection and specification, process optimisation, construction support, and robust risk management aligned with WHS requirements and industry standards. Ideally, you will have experience leading teams through all project phases—from planning and options development through concept and detailed design, specification preparation, procurement, construction support, commissioning, and operational handover.
Responsibilities
* Provide technical leadership during project delivery—oversight of mechanical design intent, equipment selection and installation practices.
* Collaborate with bid teams to ensure alignment of mechanical design during tender phases; review technical documentation; refine cost estimates; and develop competitive proposals.
* Work closely with procurement teams to define scopes, engage vendors (including RFQ processes), and coordinate equipment selection.
* Build strong relationships with clients and stakeholders—act as a key technical liaison to present solutions confidently and ensure stakeholder satisfaction.
* Mentor junior staff; manage client relationships; evaluate tenders; develop contract documentation; and drive innovation on high-value projects.
* Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives that enhance project outcomes.
Qualifications & Skills
* Proven leadership in mechanical design for water or wastewater treatment projects is essential.
* Strong communication skills and stakeholder engagement experience.
* Familiarity with digital engineering platforms (such as BIM/Revit).
* Ability to deliver under pressure.
* Experience leading teams through project phases including planning, options development, concept and detailed design, procurement, construction, commissioning, and handover.
What We Offer
* Flexibility & Wellbeing: Flexible working options and dedicated leave for wellbeing and community engagement.
* Belonging & Ownership: Inclusive team culture and shareholder opportunities.
* Parental Leave: Up to 14 weeks of fully paid parental leave, inclusive of all genders.
* Career Growth & Development: Continuous learning, support for professional accreditation (including pathways to Chartership with Engineers Australia), and hands-on experience.
About the Role Location
Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
For further information please visit: www.beca.com/join-our-team/our-opportunities/water
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