Site Engineer Jobs

Are you an ambitious engineer with strong technical expertise and a passion for seeing projects come to life?

Site Engineer jobs are a fantastic opportunity to play a key role in the planning, coordination and execution of major construction and infrastructure projects across the UK.

At Stafffinders, we work with leading construction and civil engineering companies to recruit skilled Site Engineers for projects ranging from small-scale builds to multi-million-pound infrastructure developments. Whether you’re just starting out or an experienced professional looking to progress into site management, we can help you find a role that matches your skills and career goals.

What Does a Site Engineer Do?

A Site Engineer acts as the technical link between the design office and the site, ensuring that every stage of a construction project is completed safely, accurately and efficiently. You’ll be responsible for setting out and marking the locations for structures, overseeing subcontractors, and managing health and safety compliance, making this a dynamic and varied role within any project team.

From civil and structural builds to road, rail, and infrastructure projects, Site Engineers are essential for keeping construction running smoothly and to specification. Typical responsibilities include:

• Acting as the main technical adviser on site for subcontractors, craftspeople, and operatives

• Setting out, levelling and surveying the site using technical drawings and design plans

• Checking plans and quantities for accuracy and ensuring compliance with specifications

• Overseeing the selection, procurement, and cost-effective use of materials

• Monitoring project progress and preparing reports for senior management and clients

• Managing and interpreting design documents supplied by architects or consultants

• Liaising with consultants, subcontractors, planners, and quantity surveyors

• Ensuring compliance with local authority regulations and by-laws

• Supervising the site workforce, managing subcontractors and maintaining site discipline

• Organising plant and site facilities to meet agreed deadlines and milestones

• Overseeing health, safety and quality control on site

• Resolving unexpected technical difficulties and challenges as they arise

This hands-on role requires a proactive approach, strong leadership skills and the ability to communicate effectively with multiple stakeholders.

Skills, Experience & Education

To succeed in a Site Engineer job, you’ll need a blend of technical knowledge, practical experience and interpersonal skills. You’ll often act as the central point of contact between design teams, project managers and construction workers, ensuring that projects are delivered on time, on budget and to a high standard.

Key skills include

• Excellent knowledge of construction and engineering principles

• Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities

• Proficiency in surveying instruments and computer-aided design (CAD) software

• Excellent communication and leadership skills

• The ability to interpret complex technical plans and specifications

• Strong awareness of health, safety and environmental regulations

• Attention to detail and a commitment to quality workmanship

• Effective organisational and project management skills

A Site Engineer’s success is built on precision, collaboration and the ability to adapt quickly to on-site challenges.

Education and Experience

To pursue a Site Engineer job in the UK, candidates typically hold a degree or HND in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related discipline. Employers may also consider applicants with relevant site experience gained through apprenticeships or trainee engineer positions.

Additional qualifications such as a CSCS card and certification in health and safety management (e.g. SMSTS or NEBOSH) are often required or highly beneficial. Experience with AutoCAD, total stations, and GPS surveying equipment is also valuable for setting out and site coordination tasks.

Many Site Engineers work towards professional recognition with the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) or Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) to enhance career development and credibility.

Career Progression and Opportunities

A career as a Site Engineer offers excellent long-term prospects within the UK’s thriving construction sector. With experience, you can progress into senior or specialist roles such as: Senior Site Engineer, Project Engineer, Site Manager, Project Manager, Contracts Manager.

There are also opportunities to work across a wide range of sectors including infrastructure, commercial, residential, transportation and energy projects, both in the UK and internationally.

Explore our latest Site Engineer jobs and take the next step in your construction career today.