Civil Engineering - Associate Director

Overview

At Jacobs, we're challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world's most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission‑critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting‑edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good.

The UK water sector is experiencing unprecedented investment and transformation, creating one of the most exciting periods of growth in a generation. This is your opportunity to play a leading role in delivering vital water and wastewater infrastructure that will serve communities for decades to come.

As an Associate Director – Civil Engineering, you'll provide technical leadership across high‑profile Design & Build programmes, influencing strategy, innovation and delivery on some of the industry's most complex projects. In the North West, you'll be a key leader within C2V, our Design Build Joint Venture with Volker Stevin, delivering United Utilities' largest‑ever AMP8 programme.

• Lead technical governance, assurance reviews and design approvals
• Drive robust, coordinated and buildable civil engineering solutions
• Champion Safety by Design and ensure compliance with industry standards
• Influence programme planning, resourcing and delivery strategy
• Lead technical risk management and design change processes
• Embed constructability, operability and innovation into project delivery
• Develop and mentor high‑performing engineering teams
• Build strong client relationships and support strategic growth opportunities

• Degree qualified in Civil Engineering or a related discipline
• Chartered Engineer (CEng) with ICE or equivalent professional institution
• Significant experience delivering detailed design for water and wastewater infrastructure projects
• Strong experience working within Design & Build environments
• Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and provide senior technical leadership
• Excellent stakeholder management and client‑facing communication skills

• Lead major regulated water infrastructure programmes with real visibility and influence
• Shape technical strategy, innovation and best practice across large‑scale projects
• Clear pathway towards Director‑level progression
• Work within a collaborative, supportive and high‑performing leadership team
• Flexible working arrangements and a strong commitment to wellbeing
• Opportunity to develop people, grow capability and leave a lasting legacy
• Be part of one of the largest water infrastructure investment programmes in the UK

As a disability confident employer, we will interview disabled candidates who best meet the criteria. We welcome applications from candidates who are seeking flexible working and from those who may not meet all the listed requirements for a role.