Principal Building Structural Engineer

Role overview

Jacobs is seeking a Principal Building Structural Engineer to help deliver major multidisciplinary built-environment projects across sectors such as health, water, power, and transportation. This role can be based in either Christchurch or Auckland, and the position is designed for someone who can provide both technical depth and strong leadership within a growing ANZ Cities & Places Building Structures team.

The team is expanding quickly as Jacobs continues to invest in new assets and improve the performance of existing operations. In this role, you will contribute from early assessments through to project closeout, supporting internal teams and external clients with high-quality structural engineering expertise.

What you will do

• Set the standard for delivering strong structural engineering outcomes for clients and colleagues.
• Support project delivery as part of the leadership group, working alongside Project Managers, Design Managers, and Discipline Leads.
• Promote innovation, digital capability, client satisfaction, and commercial performance.
• Develop effective relationships across regions to strengthen collaboration and global integrated delivery.
• Provide leadership that reflects Jacobs’ values and Culture of Caring.
• Place health, safety, and wellbeing at the centre of team and stakeholder interactions.
• Work with clients, assist with strategic bids, and contribute to business growth.
• Represent the organisation as a respected structural engineering leader with a forward-looking approach.

What you need

This position suits an experienced structural engineer with a strong built-environment background and the ability to guide multi-disciplinary project outcomes. You should bring substantial experience across the full project lifecycle, from concept development through to construction delivery, plus a solid track record across sectors such as health, water, transportation, and data centres.

Technical strength in structural design, coordination, and digital delivery is essential, along with proven leadership capability and the confidence to influence project teams. You should also be comfortable developing client relationships and contributing to strategic pursuits.

Benefits and culture

Jacobs offers flexible working arrangements, wellbeing support, and opportunities to grow through a global organisation. The company also provides access to its worldwide giving and volunteering programs, along with a range of benefits that support employees at different stages of life.

The organisation places strong emphasis on inclusion and belonging, with employee networks, communities of practice, and initiatives that help people build connection and purpose at work. Cultural safety is also prioritised, and Māori and Pasifika candidates are encouraged to apply. Applicants from these communities may request that a whānau member, family member, or cultural representative join the interview panel.

Additional information

Jacobs follows a hybrid working model, with employees splitting time between offices or project sites and remote locations. The company values in-person collaboration for both culture and client delivery.

If you need support during the recruitment process or require reasonable adjustments, including an alternative application format, you can contact the Careers Support team.