WSP in the UK & Ireland
Principal EICA Design Engineer (Water Sector)

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Principal EICA Design Engineer (Water Sector)
Senior and Principal Electrical, Instrumentation, Control & Automation Engineers (EICA) – Water Sector
What if you could shape a career as unique as you?
At WSP, you can always find opportunities to grow and do what matters to you. Make the most of our global reach to discover new challenges and work with diverse, talented individuals who will help you expand your horizons.
About the Role
Our Regulated Water Asset Design team serves the municipal water sector both in the UK and internationally. We hold long-term framework agreements with water companies, including Severn Trent Water and Southwest Water. We also collaborate under excellent trading agreements with blue-chip contractors (Costain and Galliford Try), delivering projects across the UK. Our scope covers a full range of design services across:
- Wastewater treatment
- Water treatment
- Sewerage
- Water network schemes
To learn more about our Water business, visit WSP Water Sector.
Introducing a New Challenge
Demand for our services has surged, and we’re actively recruiting Senior and Principal EICA Engineers (Electrical, Instrumentation, Control & Automation) to support the AMP8 water industry capital investment programme. Join us in making a meaningful impact.
Key Responsibilities
As part of the Water Engineering team, you’ll work independently and collaboratively to deliver innovative technical solutions for diverse infrastructure and capital projects. Your role will focus on preparing and reviewing detailed EICA deliverables, supporting the entire project lifecycle—from tender phases through to construction and commissioning. Expect a varied workload, including participation in high-profile and challenging projects across multiple sectors.
Core Tasks
- Deliver EICA design inputs for infrastructure-related projects.
- Prepare and review EICA deliverables, including:
- Technical specifications
- Calculations and reports
- Datasheets and schedules
- Control philosophies
- User requirement specifications (URS)
- Network architecture drawings
- Evaluate and execute tender evaluations.
- Contribute to proposals, scope work, identify key tasks, and develop resourcing/time estimates.
- Ensure compliance with DSEAR (Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations) and EICA equipment guidelines, including hazardous area applications.
- Coordinate onsite activities—including inspections, testing, setting to work, and commissioning—for ICA (Instrumentation, Control & Automation) equipment.
- Attend factory acceptance tests for panels, PLC/HMI application software, and SCADA systems.
- Mentor and guide junior ICA engineers within the team.
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What We’re Looking For
We’re seeking individuals who can demonstrate expertise alongside a passion for delivering exceptional engineering solutions. Here’s what you should have:
Essential Qualifications & Experience
- Degree qualified (architected by the Institution of Engineering and Technology, IET) in electrical or control engineering, or the equivalent of a HND in electrical/control engineering with substantial experience.
- Professional registration with the Engineering Council as a CEng (Chartered Engineer) or IEng (Incorporated Engineer).
- Extensive experience in EICA engineering design for water infrastructure, including:
- Creating and reviewing technical specifications, schedules, control philosophies, URS, and network architecture drawings.
- Strong understanding of:
- DSEAR (equipment in explosive atmospheres)
- Electrical safety (safe systems of work)
- CDM regulations for installations
- Client-facing skills—you must be diligent, collaborative, and motivating. Ability to work both independently and with water utilities or teams.
- Willness to travel to operate construction sites for surveys, inspections, and testing, while rigorously upholding safety protocols.
Preferred Traits (Not Exclusive)
Don’t see yourself reflected perfectly in these criteria? That’s okay—apply anyway! We’ll match your experience to other opportunities you may not know exist.
Why Choose WSP?
We’re one of the world’s leading engineering and professional services firms, driven by a common purpose—impact. Our 11,000+ professionals across the UK and Ireland combine innovation, integrity, and inclusion to build lasting change in communities globally.
Your Utility: A Better Future for You & All
Work-Life Balance
At WSP, life matters more than just work. Our policies ensure you can spend time with loved ones and pursue interests that matter to you.


Get help with your application
Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.
- Hybrid working model: Two days remote, three days on-site in our modern offices across the UK.
- Purposeful discussions: Balancing productivity while valuing your well-being.
Inclusivity & Belonging
We thrive on diversity in talents, backgrounds, and experiences. Our supportive environment fosters authentic expression and welcomes an open dialogue about mutual support and achieving change together.
With employee resource groups, we throw light on the varied experiences of our teams, celebrating a culture of inclusion and belonging.
Health & Wellbeing Support
We prioritise your mental and physical well-being!
- Thrive Program: Powers your personal health and lifestyle advancements.
- Virtual GP Care:
- Access an NHS/IRC GP on your schedule—quick, trusted medical advice 24/7.
- Flexible adjustments: Reasonable workplace accommodations for those needing them.
- Bright Flex Advantages:
- Up to 40% off annual gym memberships through WSP’s Flexible Benefits Program.
- Comprehensive menopause support to aid employees during life transitions.
Adapt Your Time (Like You Adapt Your Tides)
Time belongs to you and your schedule:
- WSP My Hour – Dedicate one hourly escape daily to recharge, work out, or tend to personal priorities. Flexible build-up in advance or later as needed.
- Part-time & flexible working: Tailor schedules that suit your rhythm.
- Extra leave: Purchase additional leave to assist where needed.
- Personalized bank holidays: Choose entitlements that work for your year.
Your Growth Is Invested In
Our training-makers community encourages upskilling through coaching, mentorship, and chartership development.
#WeAreWSP
We proactively welcome and support applicants from diverse backgrounds, celebrating and championing:
- Women in Science & Engineering
- LGBTQ+ communities
- People with disabilities
- BAME associates
As Disability Confident leaders, we’re committed to fostering a culture that removes barriers and empowers talent. If you require workplace adjustments to support your application, we’re here to assist—please tell us how we can make it easier.
Ready to make an impact? Apply today and unlock opportunities to shape an even brighter future—for your career, and for the world around you.
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