WSP in the UK & Ireland
Associate Director / Technical Director Large Ground Investigation Lead

How your CV stacks up
Upload your CV to see how well it fits this job role
?%
Associate Director / Technical Director Large Ground Investigation Lead
Large Ground Investigation Lead – Ground & Water
WSP
WSP is at the forefront of delivering some of the UK’s most complex and high-profile ground investigation programmes. As our Large Ground Investigation Lead, you will play a pivotal role in shaping and growing this capability, leading the pursuit and delivery of major, technically challenging projects that support some of the most significant infrastructure, development, and environmental programmes in the market.
This is a unique opportunity to drive a business-critical service offering, working across sectors and disciplines to position WSP as the partner of choice for large-scale ground investigation. You will influence strategy, develop new opportunities, lead major commissions, and champion excellence in safety, commercial performance, and technical delivery.
Why Join Us?
You will join an impressive team of over 200 specialists united by a passion for understanding the geosphere and delivering innovative solutions that create value for our clients and communities. At WSP, we value engagement, innovation, and progress—unique expertise supported by a global team of more than 69,000 employees who together shape a brighter future.
About the Role
As Large Ground Investigation Lead, you will:
Strategic Direction & Growth
- Define WSP’s approach to winning and delivering major ground investigation programmes.
- Set the strategic vision, driving growth, innovation, and market differentiation for large-scale ground investigations.
Opportunity Pursuit & Delivery
- Work closely with sector leads and key client teams to identify, develop, and secure major opportunities.
- Build a strong pipeline of high-value projects where WSP leads the design, management, and delivery of ground investigations.
- Maintain a structured approach to opportunities—from early engagement through to final delivery.
Technical & Commercial Leadership
- Serve as the technical lead on major projects, ensuring direction, oversight, and alignment with scope, programme, and budget.
- Identify and manage risks proactively from the conception phase.
- Champion efficiency through innovation, digital solutions, and best practices to improve delivery at scale.
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
Start with a chat, not a search bar
Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
See breakdownIt searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
Relationships & Collaboration
- Develop strong client, contractor, and stakeholder relationships, establishing WSP as a leading name in the market.
- Drive cross-functional, multidisciplinary collaboration, ensuring ground investigations are integrated into broader WSP solutions.
Key Accountabilities
This is a senior leadership position requiring visible influence across WSP’s Business, fostered through:
Safety & Culture
- Lead by example in health, safety, and wellbeing, promoting a culture where employees thrive and return home safely.
Inclusion & Influence
- Foster an inclusive, collaborative, and high-performing environment where everyone feels valued.
- Contribute to Ground & Water, Earth & Environment, and broader business strategy initiatives.
Leadership & Impact
- Communicate risk, opportunities, and emerging trends, advocating for proactive solutions.
- Maintain broad knowledge of WSP’s Ground & Water and Earth & Environment services, leveraging integrated technical excellence.
Ambassador Role
- Represent WSP to clients, industry bodies, and professional networks, reinforcing our reputation.
Capital Development
- Support the growth of future leaders and technical specialists to enhance WSP’s long-term capabilities.
Minimum Criteria
To excel in this role, you will need to demonstrate:
- A proven record in winning, designing, and delivering large-scale ground investigations.
- Experience as Project Director for complex, multidisciplinary programmes.
- Strong commercial awareness and bid strategy experience.
- Chartered (or equivalent) status in a relevant discipline.
- Confident client-facing leadership at senior levels.
- Proven ability to lead teams and collaborate across disciplines.


Get help with your application
Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.
Note: If you meet some but not all criteria, WSP will consider how your experience aligns, or opportunities within the team.
WSP Commitment & Benefits
Work-Life Balance
- Hybrid working model with two days remote per week.
- Modern, flexible offices across the UK for in-person collaboration.
Inclusivity & Belonging
- A supportive culture encouraging authentic selves and career growth.
- Employee resource groups promoting diverse perspectives and inclusive environments.
Health & Wellbeing
- Thrive Wellbeing Programme with tailored resources.
- Access to Virtual GP services for quick medical advice.
- Gymflex offering discounts on gym memberships (40% off annually).
- Comprehensive menopause support.
- Reasonable workplace adjustments for employees as needed.
Flexibility & Time
- WSP My Hour initiative allowing flexible time-use for personal needs.
- Part-time and flexible working options.
- Ability to purchase additional leave and use British bank holidays flexibly.
Development Opportunities
- Investment in training, mentorship, and charity, including opportunities to gain or progress towards Chartership.
Note: WSP positively welcomes candidates from varied backgrounds, including those with disabilities. All appropriately qualified disabled applicants meeting essential criteria will be invited for interview; please let us know if you require workplace adjustments in your application.
NOTE: We make no compromise on safety and operating standards. These describe the ideal role, and variations may apply to local requirements, services offered, or eligibility criteria where necessary. However, all WSP offices aim to reflect these commitments regardless of location.
“It took my CV and asked me questions relevant to understanding what kind of jobs to suggest for me. Suggestions were almost perfect. Jobs were exactly what I’ve been looking for.”
Jessica, London
Skills