Principal Headframe Engineer
WSPWhat if you could shape a career as unique as you?
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A little more about your role…
We are seeking an experienced Headframe Engineer (Principal level) with a proven track record in the design and delivery of mine headframes and associated hoisting infrastructure for deep shafts and production/service winders. You will embed into active projects and take a lead role in building a specialist team and developing a sustainable headframe/hoisting workstream across Europe and Africa.
The role spans concept through detailed design and construction support, with a strong focus on static and dynamic load modelling, structural integrity, and constructability. Our team values collaboration and diversity of experience, and we offer an integration period to help you familiarise yourself with colleagues, workflows, and projects.
The Role
Project Delivery & Design Leadership
- Lead structural design for headframes, back legs, and collar-level structures from concept through detailed design and construction phases.
- Apply advanced structural engineering principles to develop safe, efficient, and innovative solutions addressing static, dynamic, fatigue, wind, seismic, and operational hoisting loads (including fleet angle and rope dynamics).
- Ensure compliance with relevant international and local standards, applicable mining regulations, and industry guidance for hoisting and shaft infrastructure.
- Undertake and review analyses, including load assessments, hoist/rope–sheave layouts, skip dump arrangements, ground–structure interaction, and temporary/permanent works design.
- Integrate interfaces across the hoisting system: ore bins, conveyors, hoist houses, foundations, collar houses, and conveyance clearances—producing clear GA drawings, 3D models, clearance diagrams, and installation sections.
Build & Grow the Practice
- Recruit, mentor, and develop a high-performing headframe/hoisting team; establish skills matrices, training plans, and technical governance.
- Define and own the workstream strategy for Europe and Africa, including capability roadmaps, preferred suppliers/fabricators, and delivery models (e.g., modularisation/offsite assembly).
- Implement quality assurance and design review processes; champion innovation and knowledge sharing.
Client, Market & Commercial
- Support and lead business development: identify opportunities, shape pursuit strategies, write proposals, and present to clients.
- Build enduring relationships with owners, EPC/EPCM partners, hoist OEMs, steel fabricators, and regional delivery partners.
- Manage scope, programme, risk, and budgets, working closely with project managers to achieve commercial targets.
Site & Construction Support
- Conduct site inspections; supervise headframe erection and commissioning; provide technical input during shaft sinking and conversion to production.
- Promote health, safety, equality, and sustainability in all aspects of work, adhering to company policies and values.
Qualifications and Success Criteria
Degree-qualified in Civil/Structural/Mechanical Engineering (postgraduate qualification desirable).
10–15 years’ experience in the structural design of mine headframes/hoisting infrastructure, including temporary and permanent works.
Strong understanding of structural behaviour under complex loading: dynamic hoist loads, fatigue, wind/seismic, impact, vibration; familiarity with ground–structure interaction for headgear foundations and back legs.
Proficiency in structural analysis/modelling tools (e.g., STAAD.Pro, SAP2000, MIDAS, Robot or similar) and confident coordination with geotechnical/numerical models.
Demonstrated ability to lead multi-disciplinary teams and grow capability (hiring, coaching, resource planning).
Excellent communication skills and willingness to travel within the UK and internationally (Europe and Africa).
Experience engaging with hoist OEMs and regional supply chains; additional languages (e.g., French/Portuguese) are an advantage.
If you don’t meet all that we are looking for please still consider applying. Not everyone will meet all the requirements, but you might have skills we didn’t know we need.
Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all.
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