Leeds is one of the major cities in the UK with a prominent role in the regional and national economy. In recent years a number of major national organisations have located in Leeds, including Channel 4 and the British Library and the city hosts many major national events like UKREiif and the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon. 

As part of this growing status the city is developing at a fast rate and this brings a large programme of major transport investment, including many interesting and challenging new proposals for the city; recent examples include the £126m East Leeds Orbital Route and the transformational closure of City Square to through traffic. Leeds continues to be a key player in the development of innovative transport approaches such as active travel and bus infrastructure and is expected to play a major role in the development of the forthcoming West Yorkshire Mass Transit. Leeds has also adopted the Vision Zero approach and is committed to making transformational and innovative changes to road safety.

Essential to these ambitious plans is an effective approach to the safe use and regulation of the highway network both on new works and within our local communities. Traffic Engineering section plays a vital role in driving this work through its annual road safety and traffic regulation programmes, as well as developing a key understanding of local concerns to support and shape the development of major projects and transport strategies. 

To meet these demands Leeds City Council is seeking an experienced traffic engineering professional to help drive delivery and service improvement and to help lead the Traffic Engineering team across these challenging and competing demands. Successful candidates will have a track record of delivery and achievement as well as working in a large multi-disciplinary directorate and alongside key partners to ensure the highway network is efficient, inclusive and safe.

About you

As Principal Engineer, you will bring to the role:

• Practical knowledge of the use and application of traffic engineering techniques and processes.
• Practical knowledge of programme and project management techniques and procedures.
• Understanding of local government and experience of achieving results in a politically sensitive context.
• Ability to contribute to change programmes, improve service quality and support culture that drives up standards and performance.
• Ability to provide leadership that commands respect, trust and confidence and  which empowers colleagues and staff to achieve results.

About the role 

The successful applicant will supervise and manage a team of traffic engineering professionals in developing and delivering traffic and road safety engineering solutions to a complex mix of local and strategic issues, reporting to the Traffic Engineering Manager. This will include engagement and consultation with ward councillors, communities and stakeholders as well as representing the service in public meetings. This role will expect high level communication, strategic thinking and analytical skills as well as a background in highway engineering and a thorough understanding of current legislation and guidance related to the role. 

How to apply

If you have any queries or would like an informal chat about the role please contact Nick Hunt, Traffic Engineering Manager. Call 0113 3787487 or email nick.hunt@leeds.gov.uk