James Locke
Tonypandy,RCT
Summary
As an experienced Design Engineer specializing in active travel infrastructure, I bring a proven track record of delivering high-quality projects that enhance sustainable transport networks. In my current role within the Construction and Development section of my local authority, I have led the design and development of active travel schemes with a range of budgets up to £1.8m. During design I ensure compliance with national standards such as Active Travel Act Guidance, Manual for Streets 1/2 and the Disability Discrimination Act and deliver user-focused, practical solutions that promote walking and cycling. My expertise extends from initial feasibility and concept design right through to construction oversight and site completion, underpinned by a hands-on understanding of site supervision from my background in a previous role. This dual capability enables me to ensure that designs are not only innovative but also practical to implement, cost-effective, and of the highest quality during execution. I excel at coordinating with stakeholders, resolving on-site challenges, and maintaining compliance with industry standards, ensuring the successful delivery of projects on time and within budget. Currently pursuing a BEng degree through the Open University (2025 Graduation) and working towards IEng registration with the CIHT under Symmons Madge mentorship, I am committed to professional growth and staying at the forefront of industry developments. My combined design and site experience position me to contribute effectively to design and implement inclusive transport infrastructure.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
8
8
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Certification
Work History
Engineering Assistant (Design - Active Travel)
Vale of Glamorgan Council
Wenvoe, Vale of Glamorgan
10.2023 - Current
- Designed and developed efficient active travel infrastructure, promoting environmentally-friendly commuting on schemes ranging from £180,000 to £1.8 Million by utilising national guidance such as ACAG, MfS1/2, DDA, DMRB.
- Utilised AutoCad Civil3D to create high-quality technical drawings and plans.
- Provide technical oversight and conduct design reviews to junior members of staff to ensure projects align with client requirements.
- Lead public consultations and presented detailed scheme reviews to stakeholders, securing project approval and funding.
- Advocate for sustainable and inclusive design solutions, incorporating emerging technologies and change management.
- Prepare Bills of Quantities and Take-Off's to determine project feasibility and budget optimisation.
- Worked closely with stakeholders to balance technical requirements of current guidance with community needs.
- Conducted regular site visits for quality and assurance checks promoting adherence to original plan specifications.
- Facilitated efficient project completion by coordinating with various teams and stakeholders.
- Ensured compliance with CDM Regulations by fulfilling the Principal Designer and Designer duties, identifying and mitigating health and safety risks during the design process, and coordinating with stakeholders to promote safe construction, maintenance, and end-use of infrastructure by completing health and safety files.
Site Engineer
Freelance
07.2019 - 10.2023
- Supervised and communicated with labour force on the field daily which resulted in improved productivity.
- Measured, marked out and levelled sites to enable prompt start times for large-scale construction projects.
- Communicated with Designers and provided on the ground technical advice for resolution of unforeseen engineering problems.
- Improved site safety by enforcing strict compliance with health and safety regulations.
- Conducted regular inspections to ensure adherence to design specifications and quality standards.
- Coordinated contractors, subcontractors and labourers to deliver on projects.
- Carried out diligent site surveys using GNSS and Total Station equipment to predict and quickly resolve possible issues and prepared technical reports and undertook investigation work.
Assistant Site Engineer
Westdale Services Limited
Hadley, Telford and Wrekin
11.2017 - 07.2019
- Supervised subcontractor activities to ensure quality workmanship and adherence to specifications.
- Managed onsite materials for efficient use in construction projects.
- Performed technical calculations for accurate estimation of required resources.
- Maintained up-to-date site records, promoting transparency and accountability.
- Improved site safety by conducting regular risk assessments.
- Assisted senior engineers, enabling effective decision making.
- Followed strict health and safety regulations, maintaining a safe working environment.
Education
Bachelor of Engineering - Engineering (Civils Bias)
The Open University
Milton Keynes 10.2023 - 09.2025
Higher National Diploma - Mechanical Engineering
Swansea University
Swansea 09.2011 - 07.2017
Skills
- Excellent Communication
- Proficient in using AutoCAD and Civils 3D for detailed design and issuing construction packages
- Strong knowledge of Design Standards (ATAG, MfS1/2, DDA, DMRB, TSRGD)
- Skilled in Keysoft/KeyLines/KeySigns
- Experience fulfilling CDM Principal Designer/Designer responsibilities
- Skilled in developing concept and detailed designs for urban and rural infrastructure projects
- Familiarity with NEC4 contracts
- Passionate advocate for sustainable and inclusive transport solutions
- Effective communicator with strong report writing and technical documentation skills
- Competent in conducting design reviews to ensure compliance and quality
- Competent in mentoring junior members of staff
Certification
- Member of The Chartered Institute of Highways and Transportation
- Due to submit for IEng January 2026
- SMSTS (2028 Expiry)
- NEBOSH National General Certificate level 3 (Ongoing - Completion March 2025)
- White Professionally Qualifies CSCS Card
- Winter Service Unit 621 (Manager/Supervisor) Card - City & Guilds
- Emergency First Aid at Work
Timeline
Engineering Assistant (Design - Active Travel)
Vale of Glamorgan Council
10.2023 - Current
Bachelor of Engineering - Engineering (Civils Bias)
The Open University
10.2023 - 09.2025
Site Engineer
Freelance
07.2019 - 10.2023
Assistant Site Engineer
Westdale Services Limited
11.2017 - 07.2019
Higher National Diploma - Mechanical Engineering
Swansea University
09.2011 - 07.2017
- Member of The Chartered Institute of Highways and Transportation
- Due to submit for IEng January 2026
- SMSTS (2028 Expiry)
- NEBOSH National General Certificate level 3 (Ongoing - Completion March 2025)
- White Professionally Qualifies CSCS Card
- Winter Service Unit 621 (Manager/Supervisor) Card - City & Guilds
- Emergency First Aid at Work
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