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

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River & Flood Risk Civil Engineer
Water, Drainage & Environmental Engineer (Flood Defence & River Projects)
At WSP, you can always find opportunities to grow and do what matters to you. Make the most of our global reach to discover new challenges and work with diverse, talented individuals—helping you expand your horizons.
About the Role
WSP is seeking Engineers with experience in Water, Drainage and Environmental Engineering specialising in rivers and flood defence projects. We support clients and projects across the UK, with a focus on assisting the Environment Agency, Local Authorities, and other asset management organisations. Our work includes designs spanning concept to detailed engineering across multiple sectors.
Key Responsibilities
- Delivering a variety of civil engineering schemes related to rivers and flood defences
- Preparing and supporting business cases for flood protection works
- Developing outline and detailed designs for flood projects, including:
- Hydraulic systems, flood defences
- Drainage and ancillary structures
- Collaborating with internal and external clients to design:
- Hydraulic structures (culverts, weirs, walls, outfalls, scour protection)
- Infrastructure projects in highways, rail, and property sectors
- Preparing work schedules, specifications for contractors
- Conducting asset inspection works (above and below ground structures)
- Supervising construction works (with team support where necessary)
- Engaging with local authorities and environmental regulatory bodies
Location & Opportunities
Positions available primarily for Engineers, Senior Engineers & Principal Engineers in the north of England, based either at our Liverpool, Manchester, Leeds, or Sheffield offices.
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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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.
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No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
We empower our teams to shape innovations and provide future-ready solutions to complex challenges.
Requirements
We’re looking for candidates who can demonstrate:
- A degree in Civil or Flood Risk Engineering
- Post-degree experience in hydraulic designs for rivers or flood defence projects
- In-depth knowledge of flood and river diversion design principles
- Proficiency in CAD or Civil 3D
- Site experience, ideally with a focus on supervision roles
- Excellent written and verbal communication
- Demonstrated ability to deliver projects/programmes on time, on-budget, and to quality standards
- Working towards Chartered or Incorporated Engineer (CEng / IEng) status
Why Work at WSP?
Shaping a Positive Legacy
WSP is a world-leading engineering consulting firm, committed to making a meaningful difference through innovation, integrity, and inclusion. Our global team of 11,000+ professionals is driven by a shared purpose—to deliver transformative improvements in the communities we serve.
Sustainable Water Management Leadership
The national Sustainable Water Management team at WSP combines industry expertise with proactive problem-solving. Your contributions will directly aid builders of environmentally responsible, forward-thinking water infrastructure.
Benefits
Work-Life Balance
- Hybrid working policy: Opportunity to work from home two days per week while maintaining collaboration in our modern UK offices.
- WSP My Hour: Flexibility to take one daily hour for personal activities or make up time where needed.
- Part-time and flexible working arrangements available.
- Additional leave or flexible bank holiday timings.


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Inclusivity & Belonging
- Embrace a culture of diversity and respect—every voice matters.
- Employee resource groups fostering a community where all backgrounds are valued.
- Proactive Disability Confident employer — interviews for disabled applicants if they meet criteria.
Health & Wellbeing
- Thrive programme focused on holistic well-being.
- Virtual GP service for immediate access to medical advice.
- Gymflex scheme offering 40% discounts on annual gym memberships through our benefits platform.
- Comprehensive menopause support package.
Career Growth
- Supportive professional development opportunities.
- Mentorship, training, and pathways to Chartership.
Join the WSP Family
At WSP, our collective "I" shapes our We. Together, we benefit from career momentum, innovation, and an empowering culture—transforming challenges into long-term causes and Community success stories.
Our global team is united by boldness, curiosity, and ambition. When you join WSP, you can discover a purpose beyond your career.
Picture a better future for yourself—and for us all.
Apply today.
** rafted by an Inclusive Community**
We welcome applications from all suitably qualified and eligible candidates, regardless of:
- Sex
- Race
- Disability
- Age
- Sexual orientation
- Gender reassignment
- Religion/belief
- Marital status
- Pregnancy/maternity or paternity Please contact us if you need support or workplace adjustments during the application process.
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