Chief Geotechnical Engineer - Dams & Reservoirs

Overview

Due to an expanding project portfolio, we are seeking an exceptional Chief Geotechnical Engineer to lead our technical capability in dams, reservoirs and embankment engineering. This is a high-profile leadership role for a recognised industry expert who can provide strategic direction, technical assurance and thought leadership across a diverse portfolio of complex dam and reservoir projects. Some of our flagship projects include Fens, Lincs, Broad Oak and Havant Thicket reservoirs.

As the organisation's technical authority for dam and reservoir engineering, you will support major infrastructure programmes throughout the UK and internationally. Working closely with multidisciplinary teams, clients, regulators and industry stakeholders, you will play a pivotal role in advancing dam safety, resilience and sustainable water infrastructure.

This role offers a unique opportunity to shape technical standards, influence industry best practice, drive business growth and mentor the next generation of dam and geotechnical engineering professionals.

Success in this role will be measured through:

• Maintaining the highest standards of technical quality and dam safety.
• Strengthening technical governance and reducing technical risk.
• Delivering business growth, profitability and market expansion.
• Building strong relationships with clients, regulators and industry stakeholders.
• Developing high-performing engineering teams and future technical leaders.
• Enhancing the organisation's reputation as a trusted industry leader in dam safety and reservoir resilience.

• As Chief Geotechnical Engineer, you will provide leadership across technical excellence, business growth, project delivery, client engagement and capability development.
• Technical Leadership & Governance
• Act as the technical authority for dam and reservoir geotechnical engineering across the business.
• Provide expert oversight and technical assurance for major dam safety, rehabilitation and new-build projects.
• Lead the development and implementation of technical standards, guidance and engineering best practice.
• Act as Independent Technical Reviewer and Approver for complex geotechnical and dam engineering solutions.
• Provide specialist advice on:
  • Dam safety and risk management
  • Seepage control and seepage analysis
  • Internal erosion and piping
  • Stability and deformation assessment
  • Seismic performance
  • Reservoir asset management
  • Champion innovation, digital engineering and advanced analytical techniques.
  • Promote collaboration across geotechnical, civil, hydraulic, environmental and asset management disciplines.

Strategic Leadership, Growth & Industry Influence

• Develop and implement the long-term strategy for the dams and reservoirs practice.
• Act as a senior technical and strategic adviser to business leaders and clients.
• Identify emerging market trends, regulatory developments and growth opportunities.
• Drive expansion across water utilities, hydropower, mining, flood risk management and critical infrastructure sectors.
• Establish business objectives, performance metrics and growth targets.
• Lead strategic engagement with clients, regulators, asset owners and industry stakeholders.
• Build and maintain relationships with Reservoir Panel Engineers, government agencies and industry partners.
• Sponsor major bids, framework opportunities and strategic project pursuits.
• Support strategic recruitment, capability development and business growth initiatives.
• Raise the organisation's profile through technical publications, conference presentations and participation in professional committees.
• Influence investment in digital engineering, advanced modelling, data analytics and emerging technologies.

Project Delivery & Client Leadership

• Direct the delivery of nationally significant and technically challenging dam and reservoir projects.
• Lead strategic client relationships with water companies, government agencies, contractors and asset owners.
• Support dam safety reviews, statutory inspections and risk assessments.
• Provide expert technical input during bids, project mobilisation and project delivery.
• Represent the organisation as a recognised industry specialist at client, industry and regulatory forums.

Leadership & Capability Development

• Lead and inspire geotechnical and dam engineering teams across multiple locations.
• Mentor Principal Engineers, Associates and future technical leaders.
• Support succession planning and long-term talent development.
• Champion professional development, Chartership and technical accreditation.
• Establish and lead technical forums, communities of practice and knowledge-sharing initiatives.
• Deliver technical training and coaching programmes.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation and technical excellence.
• Drive recruitment, retention and development of specialist engineering talent.
• Identify future capability needs and implement workforce development initiatives.

Dam Engineering Scope

You will provide leadership in the design, assessment and rehabilitation of:

• Earth embankment dams.
• Reservoir…