Water Detailed Design Lead — Associate Director

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. This is more than a role; it’s your opportunity to shape some of the UK’s most ambitious water programmes during a once‑in‑a‑generation transformation.

As an Associate Director/Principal, you’ll sit at the heart of delivery, setting the technical direction, influencing programme outcomes and leading the teams that make it happen. From detailed design to live construction, your decisions will drive safe, buildable, innovative solutions that stand the test of time. You’ll be the trusted voice clients rely on and the driving force behind delivery excellence across complex Design & Build environments.

• Lead from the front – owning technical strategy, governance, and final design sign‑off across major water and wastewater projects
• Influence at scale – shaping programme‑wide decisions, driving value engineering and commercial outcomes
• Champion delivery excellence – embedding constructability, safety and innovation into every solution
• Collaborate without boundaries – working across multidisciplinary teams, clients and delivery partners in truly integrated environments
• Develop and inspire – growing high‑performing teams while advancing digital engineering, standardisation and modern methods of construction
• Drive growth – contributing to bids, strengthening client relationships and shaping the future of Jacobs’ water capability

• Degree in Civil Engineering (or related discipline)
• Chartered Engineer (CEng) – ICE or equivalent
• Proven experience delivering complex detailed design in regulated water/wastewater environments
• Strong track record in Design & Build or alliancing delivery models
• The ability to act as a senior technical authority, resolving complex challenges with confidence
• Exceptional stakeholder and client engagement skills

• Experience at programme or framework level
• Knowledge of NEC3/NEC4 contracts
• Ability to influence commercial outcomes through technical leadership
• Strong digital and BIM capability
• Passion for business growth and strategic development

• A high‑impact leadership role on nationally significant water programmes
• The chance to shape technical strategy and innovation at scale
• A clear pathway to Director‑level progression
• Flexible working and a strong commitment to wellbeing and work‑life balance
• A collaborative, forward‑thinking culture with real investment in people and capability

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.