WSP in the UK & Ireland
River & Flood Risk Civil Engineer

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River & Flood Risk Civil Engineer
Civil & Flood Risk Engineer, Water, Drainage & Environmental Engineering
WSP
About the Role
What if you could shape a career as unique as you?
At WSP, you can explore opportunities to grow professionally and focus on what matters to you. Leverage our global network to uncover new challenges while collaborating with talented professionals who will expand your horizons.
We’re seeking Engineers, Senior Engineers, and Principal Engineers (primarily based in the north of England) to join our Water, Drainage & Environmental Engineering team. You’ll support Environment Agency, Local Authorities, and asset management organisations, working on projects from concept design through to detailed execution.
Your role will involve:
- Delivering civil engineering river and flood-related schemes for diverse clients.
- Preparing business cases and supporting decisions on flood protection works.
- Developing outline and detailed designs—hydraulic systems, flood defences, drainage, and ancillary structures.
- Collaborating with infrastructure clients (internal and external) to design hydraulic structures (including culverts, weirs, walls, and outfalls) for projects in highways, rail, and property.
- Drafting work schedules and contractor specifications.
- Conducting asset inspections (above and below ground).
- Supervising construction works (with support as needed).
- Engaging with local authorities and national environmental bodies.
You’ll be part of our national Sustainable Water Management team, recognized as technical leaders who foster a proactive, responsible, and collaborative culture. This role offers the chance to contribute to innovative solutions for our clients’ most pressing challenges—helping shape the future of our engineering team.
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.
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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.
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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.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead design and delivery of flood defence and river management projects.
- Prepare technical reports, bids, and business cases aligned with client objectives.
- Work on hydraulic/flood defence designs and sustainable drainage systems.
- Interface with contractors, regulators, and stakeholders to ensure project success.
- Apply CAD (Civil 3D or equivalent) for project modelling.
- Support construction oversight and asset condition assessments.
Requirements & Qualifications
We’re looking for:
- A degree in Civil or Flood Risk Engineering (or relevant field).
- Postgraduate experience in hydraulic/flood defence design.
- Technical expertise in flood diversion principles and mitigation measures.
- Strong proficient CAD or Civil 3D skills.
- Site experience, ideally in supervision roles.
- Excellent communication—both written and verbal.
- Commitment to achieving Chartered or Incorporated Engineer status (if applicable).
Why Work With Us?
Professional Growth & Impact
- Help create lasting solutions to environmental challenges.
- Develop alongside a dynamic team shaping the future of sustainable water engineering.
Flexible & Supportive Environment
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Hybrid working | 2 days remote, 3 days in our Liverpool, Manchester, Leeds, or Sheffield offices. |
| Wellbeing initiatives | Virtual GP access, Thrive programme, menopause support, and reasonable adjustments. |
| Work-life balance | Earn an hourly “WSP My Hour” allowance; plus part-time/flexible scheduling. |
| Flexible leave | Additional paid time off and bank holiday suitability. |
| Learning & mentorship | Invest in your Charterships and professional development. |


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Culture & Inclusion
- #WeAreWSP: A culture rooted in innovation, integrity, and belonging.
- Employee Resource Groups fostering diversity (gender, disability, race, etc.).
- Hybrid working flexibility designed to empower authentic self-expression.
Commitment to Equity & Opportunity
We thrive on diversity and welcome applicants regardless of:
- Sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation
- Religion, marital status, or maternity/paternity career facet
As a Disability Confident Leader, we interview all eligible disabled candidates. Please let us know if you require reasonable adjustments for your application process.
Join WSP and envision a future where your work matters—professionally, personally, and globally. Apply today.
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