WSP in the UK & Ireland
River & Flood Risk Civil Engineer
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River & Flood Risk Civil Engineer
Engineering Opportunities – Water, Drainage & Environmental (Rivers & Flood Defence) at WSP
What if you could shape a career as unique as you?
At WSP, we offer endless opportunities to grow while working on what matters to you. With global reach, diverse talent, and new challenges around every corner, you’ll expand your horizons and gain valuable experience.
About the Role
WSP is seeking Engineers with expertise in Water, Drainage and Environmental Engineering to support flood defence and rivers projects. We work with clients across the UK, including the Environment Agency, Local Authorities, and asset management organisations—delivering designs from concept through to detailed execution.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Delivering civil engineering river and flood-related schemes.
- Preparing and supporting business cases for flood protection.
- Developing outline and detailed designs for flood defences, drainage systems, hydraulic structures, and ancillary infrastructures.
- Collaborating on hydraulic structures (e.g., culverts, weirs, walls, outfalls, scour protection) for highways, rail, and property projects.
- Drafting work schedules and specifications for contractors.
- Inspecting above and below-ground assets.
- Supervising construction works (with support from team members where needed).
- Engaging with local authorities and environmental organisations.
Successful candidates will be based in the north of England and are expected to work from Liverpool, Manchester, Leeds, or Sheffield.
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Responsibilities
Key tasks in this role include:
- River and flood defence engineering – Designing hydraulic systems, drainage, and flood defence structures.
- Client collaboration – Supporting enviromental sector clients, including the Environment Agency and Local Authorities.
- Technical design & innovation – Develop high-quality engineering solutions for sustainable water management.
- Project delivery – Ensuring projects are completed to commercial and quality standards.
- Construction supervision – Overseeing site-based works effectively.
- Regulatory engagement – Working with environmental agencies to meet compliance requirements.
Requirements
We’re looking for candidates at Engineer, Senior Engineer, or Principal Engineer level with:
- A degree in Civil or Flood Risk Engineering (or equivalent qualification).
- Post-degree experience in hydraulic designs for river or flood defence projects.
- Knowledge of flood and river diversion principles.
- CAD or Civil 3D proficiency in hydraulic modelling.
- Site experience, preferably in a supervision role.
- Strong written/verbal communication and project delivery skills.
- Chartership aspirations (working towards Chartered or Incorporated Engineer status).
What We Offer
✅ Work-life balance – Modern offices, hybrid working (2 days remote), and flexibility.
✅ Inclusivity & belonging – A diverse, supportive culture with employee resource groups.
✅ Health & wellbeing –
- Virtual GP service (UK/Irish Medical Council-compliant, flexible appointments).
- Gymflex discounts (up to 40% off annual gym memberships).
- Menopause support programme.
- Reasonable workplace adjustments.
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✅ Flexible time management – "WSP My Hour" policy (voluntary 1-hour personal time daily).
- Part-time & flexible work arrangements.
- Additional paid leave and study leave options.
✅ Career development – Training, mentorship, and Chartership support to further your professional journey.
✅ Meaningful impact – Work on landmark projects, contribute to climate-positive solutions, and strengthen local communities.
About WSP
We are a global leader in engineering and professional services, dedicated to creating long-lasting, beneficial change. With 11,000+ professionals across the UK and Ireland, we harness diverse perspectives to deliver innovative, inclusive solutions.
Our Sustainable Water Management team is a leader in its sector, fostering a culture of responsibility, collaboration, and technical excellence. Join us to shape your future—and ours.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
At WSP, we actively encourage applications from diverse backgrounds and benachmarked employees who meet requirements. We also oberve the NHS Equality Framework.
We are a Disability Confident leader; if you require workplace adjustments for your application, let us know.
Apply today and imagine a better future—constructing both careers and communities.
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