AECOM
Principal Hydrologist
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Senior Principal Hydrologist – Water Business
AECOM Infrastructure and Environment UK Limited
Company Description
"Lead hydrology projects that protect communities and shape the future of water!" Work with Us. Change the World.
At AECOM, we’re delivering a better world—whether improving commutes, ensuring access to clean water, or transforming urban landscapes. As the world’s trusted infrastructure consulting firm, we partner with clients to solve the most complex challenges and build sustainability for future generations.
With global infrastructure investment accelerating, AECOM is seeking dynamic professionals like you to shape our future. Join our nearly 50,000-strong global team of planners, engineers, scientists, and innovators who deliver projects with positive, tangible impact.
Job Description
Startup Here. Grow Here.
Principal Hydrologist – Water Team "Are you ready to join a team of hydrologists and shape the future of the Water Industry?"
We’re hiring a Principal Hydrologist to lead hydrology projects in the UK and Ireland while benefiting from our flexible hybrid working model. Based in Bristol or another AECOM office, this senior role offers technical leadership, client engagement, and project oversight within a growing water expertise team.
This is a challenging yet rewarding opportunity to advance your career while making a real difference.
Key Responsibilities
You will:
- Lead hydrological assessments for flood risk appraisals, infrastructure design, catchment strategies, and environmental impact assessments.
- Oversee rainfall-runoff modelling, river flow estimation, and climate change allowances while ensuring UK regulatory compliance (e.g., FEMA methods, EA guidance).
- Advise clients on flood risk policy, drainage strategy, abstraction licensing, and environmental permitting.
- Mentor junior hydrologists, fostering technical growth and knowledge exchange.
- Support business development, including bid preparation and client relationship management.
- Lead major multi-disciplinary projects across transport, energy, water, and development sectors.
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About the Role
This is a senior leadership position combining: ✅ Expertise in hydrological modelling and analysis ✅ Strategic client-facing roles ✅ Team leadership and mentorship ✅ Business development involvement
One of the world’s largest water engineering firms, AECOM’s Water Team accommodates around 600 experts across the UK & Ireland. You’ll collaborate on diverse, impactful projects, from small-scale initiatives to large-scale infrastructure, from concept phase to completion.
Requirements & Qualifications
Minimum Experience & Skillset
Ready to push the limits of what’s possible? Here’s what we’re looking for:
- Degree (BSc/BEng/MSc) in Hydrology, Civil Engineering, Environmental Science, Geography, or a related discipline.
- Extensive consultancy or regulatory sector experience in hydrological risk assessments.
- Deep knowledge of UK hydrological guidelines, including:
- Flood Estimation Handbook (FEH)
- Environment Agency (EA) methodologies
- Water Resources Management Act (WRMA) compliance
- Proficiency in hydrological modelling tools, such as:
- FEH-based models
- MIKE-11, System’s River Xephyrus (XXeph), or other rainfall-runoff software
- Chartered status (or working towards) – e.g., Chartered Engineer (CEng), Chartered Scientist (CSci), or Chartered Environmentalist (CEnv).
- Proven leadership in projects requiring technical oversight, quality assurance, and stakeholder management.
- Excellent communication skills to engage clients, regulators, and multidisciplinary teams.
Desirable Traits
- Passion for innovation and turning bold ideas into sustainable real-world solutions.
- Self-motivation, adaptability, and a collaborative spirit.
- Willingness to mentor junior colleagues and contribute to business development efforts.
What We Offer
Why Join AECOM?
- Impactful work: Shape flood risk management, water resource strategies, and environmental permitting—directly improving communities.
- Global reputation: Work alongside top-tier engineers, scientists, and industry leaders.
- Inclusive, collaborative culture: Be part of a forward-thinking team that values every contribution.
- Flexible hybrid working: Balance remote flexibility and in-office collaboration to suit your lifestyle.
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Core Benefits
- Competitive compensation and long-term career growth.
- Diverse learning opportunities, including AECOM University, technical practice networks.
- Work-life balance: Hybrid model with volunteering days and flexibility.
- Tailored support: Discuss part-time or flexible arrangements if needed.
About AECOM
As the world’s infrastructure consulting firm, AECOM delivers professional services from advisory to construction. Trusted by governments, corporates, and institutions, we specialise in: 🌊 Water & Environment 🏗️ Transport & Buildings ⚡ Energy & Sustainability
AECOM boasts:
- Fortune 500 status and $16.1 billion revenue (FY 2025).
- A culture of diversity, inclusion, and sustainability.
- Supportive HR teams and global mobility opportunities.
Inclusivity & Support
At AECOM, we believe diversity strengthens our team. We welcome applications from:
- Neurodivergent candidates
- Applicants with disabilities
- Individuals requiring reasonable adjustments during recruitment
Disability Confident Employer: We guarantee interviews to all applicants with disabilities/long-term conditions meeting essential criteria. Contact: DisabilityInterfaces@aecom.com
Application Notes
- Flexible arrangements (e.g., part-time) considered on request.
- All applications are confidential.
- Onboarding: New hires must attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office.
Interested? Let’s Connect
For more details:
- Candidate Brochure: See link
- Social Media: Follow AECOM UK’s Water page on LinkedIn.
- Contact HR for disability adjustment inquiries.
Tagged: #LI-RP1 #AECOMUKHYDROLOGIST
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