S278 Technician – Birmingham

job description

PJA, one of the UK’s leading independent consultancies, is seeking an experienced S278 Civil Engineering Technician to join our growing Birmingham office. We specialize in delivering high-quality infrastructure design, and this role is pivotal in supporting our diverse portfolio of projects—ranging from minor highway enhancements to major Section 278 junction improvements. This is a strategically important position offering the right individual the chance to exert real influence on infrastructure design while working in a modern, accessible, and supportive environment.

Our ideal candidate

• Our ideal candidate will have a or working towards a degree in Civil Engineering (or an equivalent qualification) and relevant experience in a similar role of 2-5 years, with good knowledge of highway design. They will have experience in the drafting and simple access junction designs, associated infrastructure, drainage, standard details, traffic signs and road markings.

• Knowledge and experience of highway design standards – DMRB, Manual for Streets and NRSWA.

• Knowledge and experience of technical drafting and adhering to quality standards, proficient in self checking, and prides themselves on the quality of the outputs that they produce.

• Knowledge of highway and drainage adoption processes and legal requirements for S278 detailed packages. Awareness of requirements of S38 and S104 packages.

• Good understanding and use of software packages including AutoCAD, Civils 3D, KeySigns/Lines, and Drainage software exports.

• Good time management and organisational skills with the ability to maintain good records.

As an S278 Technician, you will provide critical design expertise and technical support throughout the project lifecycle. Your daily responsibilities include producing detailed technical drafts for access junctions, drainage systems, and road markings, ensuring all outputs adhere to strict quality standards and highway adoption legal requirements. Working closely with senior professionals, you will utilize advanced software like Civils 3D and AutoCAD to develop infrastructure solutions that meet DMRB and Manual for Streets standards. This role is designed for a self-motivated professional who takes pride in technical accuracy and is eager to leverage ongoing mentoring and training to progress quickly within a high-performing consultancy.

Core Design Standards & Regulatory Framework

Your expertise will be applied within the specific legal frameworks governing UK highway infrastructure:

• Section 278 (S278): Agreements allowing developers to make permanent alterations or improvements to the existing public highway.

• Section 38 (S38): The process for the adoption of new roads by the Local Highway Authority.

• DMRB & Manual for Streets: Applying the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges for trunk roads and Manual for Streets for urban residential environments.

Rewards and Benefits

We offer a comprehensive package designed to support your professional growth and personal wellbeing:

• Professional Growth: Mentoring from senior leaders, payment of professional subscriptions, and rapid career progression opportunities.

• Financial & Security: Competitive salary, life assurance, group pension scheme, and the option to join our Company Share Ownership scheme.

• Health & Lifestyle: 25 days annual leave (plus purchase options), flexible working arrangements, private healthcare, and Cycle to Work/Tech schemes.