Lead / Senior Process Engineer (Water/Wastewater)

Freelance Senior Process Design Engineer (Outside IR35)
Location: Southampton (with flexibility for hybrid working)
Limited Rate - £400/500 Per day - Depending on references

We are seeking an experienced Senior Process Design Engineer to support on a freelance, outside IR35 basis. This role will suit a technically strong professional with a background in process engineering for the water and wastewater sector, covering water treatment, water distribution and storage, and wastewater recycling. You will play a key role in delivering innovative design solutions and providing technical support across a range of projects.

Key Responsibilities:

Work as part of a multi-disciplinary design team on UK Water Industry frameworks

Manage multi-discipline design interfaces and integrate process design elements into fit-for-purpose engineering solutions

Lead tasks on major projects or manage several medium-sized projects with complex features

Interpret and challenge project requirements from client specifications, drawings and documentation

Undertake condition surveys of existing processes and assets

Develop and check key process design deliverables, including:

Design calculations (e.g. mass balance)

CAD-based drawings (e.g. PFDs, P&IDs)

Technical reports and process control philosophies

Participate in and lead HAZOP meetings as Lead Engineer or Facilitator

Apply expertise in hydraulics, surge analysis, sludge rheology, and system dynamics

Collaborate with internal teams, clients, partners and subcontractors to deliver compliant and innovative solutions

Drive health & safety considerations through the design process, including design risk assessments

Provide technical input to bid evaluations, supplier design reviews and design change management

Monitor and report design progress against scope, budget and schedule

Support site teams during installation and commissioning

Ensure compliance with UK water industry standards, regulations and quality processes

Mentor junior engineers and contribute to technical excellence within the team

Represent the discipline at client and stakeholder meetings, and attend industry conferences

Requirements:

IChemE accredited MEng or BEng/BSc in Chemical/Process Engineering (or equivalent)

Chartered status advantageous but not essential

Minimum 3 years' experience delivering multi-disciplinary projects in the water/wastewater industry

Strong knowledge of engineering principles and UK water industry standards

Proficient in Microsoft Office and CAD software

Excellent communication and presentation skills

Ability to manage and prioritise multiple projects effectively
This freelance contract offers the opportunity to work on challenging and rewarding water industry projects, whilst maintaining flexibility and independence as an outside IR35 engagement