WSP in the UK & Ireland
Tailings / Geotechnical Engineer

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Tailings / Geotechnical Engineer
Senior Geotechnical Engineer • Tailings & Waste Facilities
At WSP, you can make an impact through groundbreaking work on global-scale projects, collaborate with industry leaders, and shape a career that reflects your unique aspirations—all while fostering curiosity in a culture that values diverse perspectives and innovation.
About the Role
Join our diverse team of engineers, scientists, and modellers, contributing across the full spectrum of conceptual design to detail engineering for mining and infrastructure projects worldwide.
- Specialise in high-impact geotechnical engineering – Focus on:
- Tailings management facilities
- Heap leach design
- Water impoundment systems
- Waste rock dump engineering
- Soil mechanics
- Soil improvement methods
- Geosynthetic material application
- Allied civil engineering solutions
- Drive project success by:
- Managing your own workload (time, budget, and quality assurance)
- Assisting project managers in delivering client solutions
- Travel domestically (UK) and internationally to support construction, client engagements, and problem-solving (overnight stays required)
- Build client relationships with integrity, both in-office and on-site, representing WSP effectively.
- Collaborate globally as part of WSP’s Mining Team, including participation in Europe-wide Mining Team meetings and calls.
- Mentor junior engineers (graduate to early-career level) in technical and professional development.
- Support business development by contributing to technical proposals.
- Champion WSP’s values by aligning work and conduct with our Code of Conduct and raising ethical concerns proactively.
- Prioritise safety while promoting a strong health and safety culture, adhering to WSP’s policy and reporting risks appropriately.
- Uphold WSP’s Equality Policy in all actions and behaviours.
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
- Develop and maintain reports, drawings, technical specifications, bills of quantities, and cost estimates.
- Prepare for field assessments or inspection visits, providing on-site expertise in geotechnical engineering.
- Represent WSP professionally in client meetings and project reviews.
What We’re Looking For
You’ll bring degree-level expertise in civil/geotechnical/geological engineering with specialist experience in:
- Soil mechanics (deep practical understanding)
- Geotechnical design for mining infrastructure— GW/GM (tailings, heap-leach, waste rock dumps)
- Construction and operating regulation compliance (e.g., MTA, LPA,-standard ANAM, etc.)
- Tool proficiency: Geotechnical modelling software (FLAC/Phase²/GeoStudio), CAD/Design software.
- Stakeholder management: Ability to work with clients, ensuring consultation, risk communication, and stakeholder integration.
Personal Attributes
✔ Hands-on geotechnical and mineral waste experience aligned with modern design principles ✔ Strong project management and consultancy aptitude, including client liaison ✔ Well-established technical report writing skills, capable of explaining complex engineering to non-technical audiences ✔ Willingness to travel frequently to projects worldwide (UK and offshore) ✔ Considered agile thinker, able to address challenges under pressure, independently and collaboratively
Why Join Us?
Balance & Flexibility
- Hybrid model: Two in-office, three at-home days (per week)
- WSP My Hour: Earn back an hour daily for personal time (front-load or back-load as needed)
- Large-scale ‘office’ locations provide collaboration spaces across the UK—choose a hub close to your home


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Inclusion & Belonging
- Our people reflect the world: We incorporate diverse backgrounds to ensure our solutions remain representative and innovative.
- nienie-ons Engaging with colleagues and contribheads of employee Resource Groups (NRGs) ensures you feel valued socially and professionally.
- Treating differences as strengths: We embrace difference and foster relationships grounded in respect.
Wellbeing Matters
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Mind & Body Support through our new Thrive programme, featuring:
- Virtual GP services for an NHS/Ireland-an feedback option for confidential health advice
- Gymflex scheme: Up to 40% discount on gym memberships via flexible benefits
- Comprehensive menopause support tailored to each needs
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Reasonable workplace adjustments for all staff, including ergonomic support.
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Flexible policies: Part-time or job-sharing arrangements are negotiable, with entitlement to buy/sell leave.
Career Growth
- Your development drives our excellence—WSP invests in your training and sponsorship across various technical and commercial futures, including promoting you toward Chartership/CEng.
- Mentor others, just as technical leaders guide you, ensuring continuous growth in your field.
Equal Opportunities
WSP ** strongly encourages** applications from candidates with protected characteristics and disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria. You provide reasonable accommodations for interviews if necessary—please disclose support during your application.
You can make a difference. Join a community of over 69,000 professionals—including 11,000 in the UK—Ireland, focused on realising positive, sustainable outcomes for communities
Apply today and take the first step toward realising your own purpose.
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