Senior​/Principal Hydraulic Engineer

Job Description Overview

Shape the future of our cities and environments through hydraulic engineering. Join Atkins

Réalis as a Principal Hydraulic Engineer and contribute to the UK’s most exciting and innovative projects.

• Coordinate or manage a team of hydraulic engineers on complex multi‑disciplinary projects, ensuring compliance with national and project‑specific design codes and standards.
• Produce and review technical deliverables, including design reports, hydraulic calculations, profile drawings and surge models.
• Provide technical input for hydraulic aspects of project design, and work with project management to meet time and budget milestones.
• Collaborate with clients, operations, and other internal teams to deliver integrated design solutions.
• Mentor less experienced colleagues and help grow the Hydraulics Team capabilities within the local region.
• Work independently with minimal technical guidance, exercising personal judgment to solve difficult problems.
• Support bid proposals and participate in business development activities.
• Maintain quality assurance standards in design, reviewing own work and that of others.

• A degree in Civil, Mechanical or Process Engineering (or equivalent).
• Chartered or Incorporated Civil, Mechanical or Process Engineer.
• Proven experience coordinating or managing hydraulic engineering design delivery within a multi‑disciplinary environment.
• Strong knowledge of hydraulic design for water or wastewater treatment works, transmission and distribution pipelines, sewage rising mains, and surge analysis.
• Practical knowledge of current design codes, standards and industry best practices (e.g., WIMES, United Utilities S07, HR Wallingford reports).
• Proficiency with analytical software such as HADES, VARISIM and WANDA.
• Water market experience is essential.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to convey technical concepts clearly to diverse teams.
• A proactive, highly motivated mindset with a collaborative approach to teamwork.
• Ability to work independently with minimal technical guidance.

Competitive salaries, employee rewards and a range of benefits tailored to your health, wellbeing and lifestyle choices. Opportunities for training and professional development, hybrid working culture, and flexible holiday allowances support a balanced personal and professional life.

Security clearance may be required. Offer of employment will depend on obtaining the relevant level of clearance and proof of UK residency for at least five years.

As an Equal Opportunities Employer, we value applications from all backgrounds, cultures and abilities.