AECOM
Principal Hydrologist

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Senior Principal Hydrologist
Company Description "Lead hydrology projects that protect communities and shape the future of water!"
At AECOM, we’re building a better world by delivering impactful solutions across infrastructure, water, energy, and more. As the world’s trusted infrastructure consulting firm, we partner with global clients to tackle complex challenges and create enduring legacies for future generations.
With our 50,000-strong global team, including scientists, engineers, and innovators, we’re shaping the future of water, transport, energy, and sustainable development. Join us to bring bold ideas to life in a collaborative, purpose-driven environment.
About the Role
AECOM’s dynamic Water Team is seeking a Principal Hydrologist (UK or Ireland based, hybrid working model) to drive impactful projects across the UK and internationally. This senior leadership role combines technical expertise, client engagement, project oversight, and team mentorship in a fast-growing discipline.
Key Responsibilities
You will:
- Lead hydrological assessments for:
- Flood risk management
- Critical infrastructure planning
- Water resources strategy
- Environmental permitting
- Provide technical direction on:
- Rainfall-runoff modelling
- River flow estimation
- Climate change impact assessments
- Advanced catchment analysis
- Ensure regulatory compliance by reviewing hydrological modelling outputs against UK guidelines (e.g., Flood Estimation Handbook (FEH), EA directives).
- Act as technical lead for multidisciplinary frameworks, spanning transport, energy, water, and development sectors.
- Advise clients on flood risk policy, licensing (abstraction/permitting), sustainable drainage solutions (SuDS), and mitigation strategies.
- Mentor and develop junior hydrologists, fostering skills and bridging knowledge gaps.
- Support business growth through bid preparation, stakeholder engagement, and client relationship management.
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Requirements
Core Qualifications
- Degree (BSc/BEng/MSc) in Hydrology, Civil Engineering, Environmental Science, Geography, or a related field.
- Extensive consultancy/regulatory experience in hydrological assessments (e.g., Flood Estimation Handbook (FEH), Environmental Agency licensing, SUDS).
- Proficiency in:
- Hydrological modelling tools (e.g., MIKE, infraVIOWARE, Smith--Kalt method, Penman-Monteith*, etc.).
- GIS and data analysis platforms (QGIS, ArcGIS, R/Py scripts, dataloggers).
- Flutter naar chartered status (preferably CEng, CSci, or CEnv).
- Proven leadership ability, capable of managing multidisciplinary projects from design to delivery.
Essential Skills
- Strong technical acumen with expertise in climate change adaptation and flood risk science.
- Stakeholder/client-facing with a portfolio of successful project wins, including bid submissions.
- Self-starter with a commitment to excellence, adaptability, and a willingness to learn.
- Flawless written and verbal communication in technical and commercial contexts.
Why Join AECOM?
Impactful Work
- Be part of a team reshaping the water industry, from urban riverside developments to cross-border infrastructure projects.
- Deliver legacy-shaping infrastructure across transport, energy, and environmental sectors.
Flexible Environment
- Hybrid working model to balance professional growth with personal well-being.
- Support tailored to individual needs, including part-time or location flexibility.
Career Growth & Development
- Access to **family and AECOM University for technical training, certifications, and cross-disciplinary knowledge.
- Engage with professional networks, webinars, and project training opportunities.
- Volunteering days to support communities through environmental recovery projects.


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Comprehensive Benefits
- Competitive salary aligned with industry standards.
- Pension and healthcare tailored to your health needs.
- Home office stipends, flexible holidays, and tech/hardware allowances.
Culture & Community
- Join an inclusive workforce where 8+ protected characteristics and neurodiverse talents thrive.
- Mentorship and coaching to nurture your leadership journey.
- Spirit of ** коллегиализма**—collaborate with 600+ water industry experts (UK/Ireland).
Key Details
Location: Bristol, UK (hybrid model) Team Size: 500+ multidisciplinary water sector consultants Job Code: #LI-RP1 | #AECOMUKHYDROLOGIST Legal Entity: AECOM Infrastructure & Environment UK Ltd
Be Part of AECOM
At AECOM, our commitment is rooted in sustainability, equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). Whether you identify as:
- A charming disabled candidate priority for interviews under our Disability Confident Scheme.
- An EEO applicant whose qualities extend beyond traditional qualifications—your story matters.
Connect with us to explore how we can grow tomorrow’s hydrology leaders—starting with you.
Explore AECOM
Follow @AECOM Water on LinkedIn. Learn more about our projects and global impact at aecom.com.
🔒 Note: In-person Day 1 onboarding is a mandatory condition of employment for new hires. 🔒
“Find your professional sweet spot—where skills and passion converge”. —AECOM
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