AtkinsRéalis
Water Framework Directive specialist
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Senior Water Framework Directive (WFD) Consultant
Overview
AtkinsRéalis is one of the world’s most respected design, engineering, and project management consultancies, with over 50,000 employees worldwide. We don’t just offer jobs; we offer the chance to make a real difference—shaping the world to benefit future generations and the natural environment.
Our multi-disciplinary Sustainable River Management team within the Water Management Consultancy group specialises in creating award-winning habitats. With over 60 specialists across the UK, we pride ourselves on technical excellence, innovation, and shaping our industry’s future.
This friendly, approachable team enjoys challenging work while maintaining a strong culture of wellbeing, creativity, and inclusivity. If you’re passionate about delivering impactful, sustainable water projects—and thrive in a collaborative, forward-thinking environment—this role could be for you.
We are seeking a well-motivated, experienced professional to join our growing Sustainable River Management team and ensure projects are compliant with the Water Framework Directive (WFD) and Water Environment Regulations (WER).
About the Role
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the undertaking of Water Framework Directive (WFD) compliance assessments for projects across the UK and internationally.
- Lead technical WFD chapters in Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) and Development Consent Order (DCO) processes.
- Support business development and client engagement to secure new projects.
- Collaborate with AtkinsRéalis specialists across teams (environmental scientists, ecologists, water quality specialists, engineers, planners) to ensure compliance with WFD legislation and deliver strong environmental outcomes.
- Contribute to standardising and automating the WFD assessment process to improve efficiency and consistency.
- Work as part of a high-performing team, delegating tasks, reviewing junior colleagues, and mentoring for career progression.
- Demonstrate a proactive, hands-on approach; capable of working independently and collaboratively in a commercial environment.
Preferred Locations
AtkinsRéalis’ Water Management Consultancy is present in key locations, including: Birmingham | Bristol | Glasgow | Oxford | London/Epsom | Manchester | Peterborough | Swansea
Note: Offers may be made for locations other than the preferred list, based on availability.
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About You
Essential Requirements
- A degree in a relevant discipline (biology, environmental science, engineering, etc.) and a relevant postgraduate qualification (e.g., MSc in ecology, water management, or related field).
- Extensive experience in undertaking Water Framework Directive compliance assessments—covering a range of scales (small to large), complexity levels and project types.
- Chartered status (or equivalent) with an appropriate professional body (e.g., CIEnv, ICE, or equivalent).
- Proven leadership experience in leading WFD assessments, managing complex projects, and guiding cross-functional teams.
- Analytical and evidence-based decision-making—experience critically reviewing data to develop technically robust mitigation strategies.
- Strong communication skills (both written and verbal): an ability to present concise, structured, evidence-based arguments tailored to different audiences.
- Expert understanding of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) principles and how they integrate with WFD obligations.
- Excellent numeracy, literacy, and IT proficiency, including familiarity with software tools relevant to water management and environmental assessments.
Desirable Skills & Qualifications
- Experience in river restoration, channel realignment, and complex mitigation measures that align with WFD compliance targets.
- A strong portfolio demonstrating leadership in Article 4.7/Regulation 19 assessments and Applicability Assessments.
- Valid UK driver’s license and willingness to undertake travel nationally (including road/rail travel) or locally.
Personal Attributes
- Highly motivated, with a passion for technical excellence and sustainable development.
- Strong project leadership experience and capability in managing teams effectively.
- Outstanding interpersonal skills and effective communication—written, verbal and presentation.
- Flexibility, adaptability, and enthusiasm for taking on new challenges in a fast-moving commercial environment.
Rewards & Benefits
AtkinsRéalis offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to enhance your career and overall wellbeing:
- Competitive salaries and reward opportunities tailored to performance.
- A flexible, hybrid working culture that empowers work-life balance.
- Ambitious training and professional development programs to support career growth.
- A *holiday allowance that enables time off without compromise (*varies based on role eligibility).
- A strong commitment to diversity, inclusion, and flexible working—such as:
- Parenting support (e.g., back-to-work schemes, subsidised childcare allowance).
- Gender Pay Gap reporting and equal opportunities initiatives.
- Employee resource groups (ERGs) promoting a sense of belonging for all.
- Wellbeing resources—like mental health support and financial advice.
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About AtkinsRéalis
We’re AtkinsRéalis, a forward-thinking engineering services organization. We connect people, data, and technology to transform infrastructure and energy systems, helping our clients and partners engineer a sustainable future for the global population.
We work with central government, water companies, NGOs, local authorities, and industry leaders worldwide. Our focus on innovation enables us to lead on cutting-edge projects with transformative influence.
Our Commitment to belonging and equality
We aim to create an organisation where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. Our vision of a united, inclusive workplace extends across our globally distributed teams.
Under the Disability Confident Leader programme, we are committed to offering interviews to all applicants with disabilities who meet the essential criteria. If you identify as such, please disclose this in your application or at interview.
By applying, you affirm your understanding of AtkinsRéalis’ policies on ethics and transparency, including details on supply chain conduct and safeguarding responsibilities.
Additional Information
Security Clearance
This role may require a security clearance and access to sensitive projects. The vetting process is managed by UK Security Vetting (UKSV) and in certain instances, requires proof of five years’ residency in the UK.
Note: Do not disclose any current or previously held security clearance details when discussing the role, in your application, or on your CV. Your eligibility for this requirement will be discussed during interview.
Would you like to find out more about joining us? Talk to your local recruiter or visit our careers page.
AtkinsRéalis, 2024.
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