WSP in the UK & Ireland
Senior / Principal Drainage Engineer

How your CV stacks up
Upload your CV to see how well it fits this job role
?%
Senior / Principal Drainage Engineer
Senior Drainage Engineer – Leeds or Belfast
What if you could shape a career as unique as you?
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 who will help you expand your horizons.
About the Role
WSP are seeking a Senior Drainage Engineer based in Leeds or Belfast, specialising in Water, Drainage and Environmental Engineering for transportation infrastructure projects. Our UK team focuses on high-profile rail, highway, Local Authority, and aviation projects, delivering drainage designs from concept to detail.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver a wide variety of civil engineering projects, including highway, rail, infrastructure, and site development schemes.
- Lead projects from concept to completion, ensuring they meet high technical standards, timelines, and commercial success.
- Delivering high-impact drainage services for the UK’s most significant transport and infrastructure projects.
Senior Role Additional Responsibilities
- Lead client relationships and attend client progress meetings.
- Manage a team of drainage engineers, supporting their technical development and project resources.
Our Team
Together, our people make up one of the world’s leading engineering professional services firms. We’re dedicated to communities in the UK and elsewhere, driven by innovation, integrity, and inclusion.
Our national sustainable water management team are technical leaders in their sector. As part of this team, the successful candidate will help shape the future of drainage solutions for our clients—including HS2, Network Rail, National Highways, and Local Authorities—at strategy, concept, feasibility, design, and construction support levels.
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.
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.
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.
See breakdownIt 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.
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.
This is an opportunity to make your mark on the future of WSP’s drainage capabilities.
What We’re Looking For
Key Requirements
- Chartered or Incorporated Engineer (or degree-qualified, depending on experience).
- Extensive post-degree experience in sustainable drainage solutions.
- Deep knowledge of drainage design principles to manage infrastructure and environmental challenges.
- Hands-on experience with Civil 3D and/or Causeway Flow/MicroDrainage software.
- Proven expertise in UK Building Regulations, design standards, codes of practice, and Health & Safety regulations.
- Track record in managing projects/teams to achieve quality and commercial targets.
Technical Expertise (One or More of the Following)
- Highway, rail, and airport drainage.
- Asset management.
- Foul and sustainable water drainage systems.
- Drainage modelling software (Causeway Flow or MicroDrainage).
Why Work at WSP?
"Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all."
WSP offers career-defining projects and the chance to create a lasting positive impact. Discover the best work of your life—and build a legacy.
About Us
WSP is one of the world’s leading engineering and professional services firms, united by innovation, integrity, and inclusion. With over 11,000 professionals across the UK and Ireland, we serve global communities with local expertise.


Get help with your application
Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.
Benefits
🔹 Flexible Work ✔ Remote up to 2 days/week + office collaboration in modern facilities. ✔ Hybrid working policy to support productivity and wellbeing.
🔹 Inclusivity & Belonging ✔ ERGs to foster diversity and representation. ✔ Supportive, respectful culture that values authenticity. ✔ Reasonable workplace adjustments for all applicants.
🔹 Health & Wellbeing Initiatives ✔ Thrive programme for health improvements. ✔ Virtual GP service for 24/7 medical advice. ✔ 40% gym discount via Gymflex (annual membership). ✔ Comprehensive menopause support and workplace wellness resources.
🔹 Flexible Development Opportunities ✔ Personal development time ("WSP My Hour") – 1 free hour/day for personal needs. ✔ Part-time, flexible work, and extra leave. ✔ Training, mentoring, and Chartership support.
Commitment to Equality and Diversity
WSP actively encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds, regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy or maternity/paternity. As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee interviews for all disabled candidates meeting the essential criteria.
Let us know if you require workplace adjustments during the application process.
Apply today—shape your future at WSP.
“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
Skills
Location