AECOM
Principal Hydrologist
Get notified of more jobs like this · No spam, ever
How your CV stacks up
Upload your CV to see how well it fits this job role
?%
Principal Hydrologist – Water Team | Bristol, UK
About the Role
"Lead hydrology projects that protect communities and shape the future of water!"
At AECOM, you’ll drive hydrological excellence across the UK and beyond. Join our dynamic Water Team as a Principal Hydrologist, leading critical assessments for flood risk management, infrastructure planning, and environmental strategy.
Based in Bristol (hybrid model available), this role blends technical leadership with client engagement across transport, energy, and development sectors. A chance to mentor professionals and help shape the next generation of water solutions.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead hydrological assessments for flood risk, infrastructure design, catchment strategies, and environmental permitting.
- Provide technical direction on:
- Rainfall-runoff modelling
- Climate change allowances
- River flow estimation
- Catchment analysis
- Oversee modelling outputs, ensuring quality, accuracy, and compliance with UK guidance (e.g., FEH, Flood Estimation Handbook).
- Act as the technical lead on major frameworks and multidisciplinary projects.
- Advise clients on flood risk policy, drainage strategy, abstraction licensing, and environmental permitting.
- Mentor young professionals to develop emerging hydrology talent.
- Support business development, bid preparation, and client relationship management.
Reasons to use Rodeo
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.
It 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.
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.
Requirements
Key Qualifications
- Degree (BSc/BEng/MSc) in Hydrology, Civil Engineering, Environmental Science, Geography, or a related discipline.
- Extensive experience in hydrological consultancy or regulation, including:
- Mastery of UK guidance (e.g., FEH, Environment Agency directives).
- Hands-on expertise with modelling tools and data analysis software.
- Proven project leadership with a track record of technical oversight.
- Chartered status (CEng, CSci, or CEnv) or commitment to achieving it.
- Outstanding communication—experience engaging clients, regulators, and teams.
Granular Experience
- Client-facing roles in flood risk, water resources, or environmental projects.
- Experience in regulatory and licensing submissions.
- Familiarity with EIA/Environmental Flow assessments.
Soft Skills
- Self-motivation and autonomy.
- Adaptability for fast-paced, deadline-driven projects.
- Passion for innovation in sustainable water practices.
What We Offer
Perks & Development
- Hybrid working model with office/remote flexibility.
- Career staged growth within 600+ water experts across UK/Ireland.
- Technical support networks, AECOM University (training programs), and volunteer opportunities.
- Final salary pension, flexible benefits, and generous illness absence coverage.
- Competitive pay and extensive development pathways—growth starts day one.
Get help with your application
Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.
Inclusion & Growth
AECOM is pleased to offer:
- Candidate Brochure [link]
- Disability Confident employer—contact for interview accommodation: [email protected].
- Diverse perspectives are valued; accommodations for neurodivergent/wide ability applicants supported via [email protected].
- Evolve in a global Fortune 500 team, with equal opportunity for all.
Why AECOM?
We deliver impactful projects—from flood resilience to resilience-centric infrastructure. Be part of a team that builds legacies and drives positive change. Your work won’t just be an asset; it’ll transform communities.
Follow our AECOM Water LinkedIn page for updates on groundbreaking projects.
Ready to join? Apply now—your next project is waiting.
State/Province: Bristol, City of Location Model: Hybrid Business Unit: Water | AECOM Infrastructure & Environment UK Limited Equal Opportunity Employer, [LI-RP1] @AECOM
“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