Principal Water Quality Scientist​/Modeller

Principal Water Quality Scientist/ Modeller

• Full-time
• State/Province:
  Manchester
• Business Group: DCS
• Legal Entity: AECOM Limited
• Business Line:
  Environment
• Work Location Model:
  Hybrid
• Operating Group:
  International
• Primary
  
  Location:
  
  UK - Manchester, Level 4 - 100 Emban

Job Overview

As a Principal Water Quality Modeller in the Water Environment team, you will lead technical projects, guide junior staff, and develop solutions for water utilities, industrial clients, government agencies, and local authorities.

Key Responsibilities

• Conceptualise and scope modelling approaches for water quality projects.
• Build and validate water‑quality models for Integrated Water Management Plans, permitting studies, and EIAs.
• Lead technical reviews and produce high‑quality technical reports with model uncertainties.
• Contribute to tender preparation for new projects and multi‑million pound framework contracts.
• Mentor and develop junior team members.
• Maintain relationships with clients and cross‑disciplinary technical teams.
• Track changes in legislation and guidelines affecting services.
• Use AECOM’s project management systems to deliver outputs on schedule and budget.
• Work closely with engineers and specialists to deliver fluvial and coastal surface water quality projects.

Qualifications & Experience

• Expertise in water quality, including cryptosporidium, PFAS, geosmin, disinfection by‑products and treatment methods.
• Significant experience in fluvial and/or coastal water‑quality modelling software (MIKE+, MIKE
  21/3 HD/AD/Ecolab, Info Works ICM, SAGIS‑SIMCAT, Cormix).
• Knowledge of Environment Agency requirements for UPM or WINEP studies and experience building models for such studies.
• Ability to perform mass balance calculations (simple, flow‑weighted, Monte Carlo) and familiarity with hydrological assessment tools (e.g., REFH₂, FEH).
• Practical scripting skills (Python, Anaconda, R) and strong GIS knowledge (QGIS, ArcGIS, Map Info).
• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in hydrology, engineering, mathematics, or related discipline.
• Experience delivering technical projects: bid preparation, proposal drafting, project management with strong report‑writing and communication skills.

Benefits

• Hybrid working model – flexible arrangement across UK offices.
• Comprehensive benefits package covering health, finance, lifestyle, well‑being, and more.

Equal Opportunity & EEO

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

We are a Disability Confident Employer and will offer an interview to applicants with a disability or long‑term condition, who meet the minimum/essential criteria for the role. For reasonable accommodation, contact Reaso