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 Embankment

Job Overview

Senior technical resource to lead and deliver complex water quality modelling projects for utilities, industrial clients and government agencies.

Key Responsibilities

• Conceptualise and scope modelling approaches with risk and opportunity assessment.
• Build and validate water quality models for integrated water management plans, permitting studies, EIAs and UPM/WINEP projects.
• Produce high‑quality technical reports documenting model development, uncertainties and recommendations.
• Lead tender and proposal activities for both one‑off and framework contracts.
• Mentor junior staff and support their professional development.
• Develop and maintain client relationships and collaborate with engineering and other technical disciplines.
• Stay current with legislation and guidance influencing water quality services.
• Coordinate with AECOM’s project management systems to deliver outputs within programme and budget.

Qualifications and Experience

• Expertise in water quality, including knowledge of cryptosporidium, PFAS, geosmin, disinfection by‑products and treatment processes.
• Significant experience in fluvial/coastal water quality modelling (e.g., MIKE+, MIKE
  21/3 HD/AD/Ecolab, Info Works ICM, SAGIS‑SIMCAT, Cormix) and modelling for UPM or WINEP studies.
• Demonstrated ability to perform mass‑balance calculations, including flow‑weighted, Monte‑Carlo statistical approaches and understanding of hydrological assessment tools (e.g., REFH2, FEH).
• Practical knowledge of scripting (Python, R, Anaconda) and GIS (QGIS, ArcGIS or Map Info).
• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in hydrology, engineering, maths or a related discipline.
• Proven experience in technical project delivery, bid preparation, proposal writing and report communication to diverse audiences.

Benefits

• Hybrid work model with flexibility to work from the Manchester office, remotely or at client sites.
• Comprehensive benefits package covering health, finance, wellbeing and lifestyle.

Equal Opportunity / Accessibility

• We are a Disability‑Confident Employer and will offer an interview to applicants who have a disability or long‑term condition, provided they meet the minimum/essential criteria.
• All personal information will be kept confidential in accordance with EEO guidelines. Reasonable accommodations can be requested at Reaso