Graduate Programme - Earth & Environment - Ground & Water

Job Overview

Our environmental Ground & Water specialists support clients in the assessment and investigation of Brownfield land, development proposals and commercial decisions. The role also encompasses the demolition and decommissioning of non‑operational power stations and the management of small, specialised redundant plants within active process areas.

• Conduct ground investigations for large infrastructure projects such as HS2 and Heathrow.
• Upgrade the national grid and support remediation of former gasworks sites or petro‑chemical plants.
• Assist in the design and management of pilot fusion energy facilities.
• Support projects within the nuclear industry.
• Lead investigations around emerging contaminants and implement thermal power station decommissioning.
• Oversee refinery plant demolition and decommissioning activities.

• Phase 1:
  Desk study, research and reporting.
• Phase 2:
  Design, supervision and soil sampling, soil logging, subcontractor management, human health/water environment risk assessment and reporting.
• Training and adherence to engineering and health and safety best practice.
• Client liaison and project team support.
• Operational assistance for project delivery.
• Environmental site monitoring.
• Data collection and data management.
• FYI:
  Prepare and fact‑check ground investigation reports.

• Attendance of works/site briefings, meetings and workshops.
• Observation and reporting of contractor works.
• Assist clients with planning and programming of works and addressing decommissioning challenges.
• Data gathering and surveying of new projects.
• Communicate and liaise with clients and contractors.
• Operational assistance for project delivery.

Our two‑year Graduate Development programme is designed to support personal and professional development through a blended learning experience. It includes core business and professional skills training, career development workshops, valuable networking opportunities, mentoring for professional registration and on‑the‑job experience.

• Graduated with at least a 2:2 in a master’s or bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject.
• Must complete the application form in full, answering all specific questions.
• Successful candidates will pass an online skill enabler assessment.
• Eligible to work in the UK (holding a UK driving licence or equivalent).
• Start date will be either April or September 2026.
• Ability to remain calm and focused under pressure, demonstrate attention to detail and adapt to change.
• Ability to work within a defined budget and time‑scales and build relationships.
• Enthusiasm for creativity and problem solving.
• Effective communication skills.
• Willingness to travel across the UK, including remote environments.

Here at WSP we positively encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy or maternity/paternity. As a Disability Confident leader, we will interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria; please let us know if you require any workplace adjustments in support of your application.