Principal Hydrologist

Company Description

Lead hydrology projects that protect communities and shape the future of water!

At AECOM, we’re delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world’s trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world’s most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.

Start here. Grow here.

Join our dynamic and multidisciplinary Water Team as a Principal Hydrologist. You can be based in one of our UK or Ireland offices whilst also taking advantage of our flexible hybrid working model.

You will be a key player in delivering impactful water projects across the UK and internationally. You will lead hydrological assessments that inform flood risk management, major infrastructure planning, water resources strategy, and environmental permitting. This senior role combines technical excellence, client engagement, project oversight, and team leadership within a growing water team.

• Lead hydrological assessments to support flood risk appraisals, infrastructure design, catchment strategies, and environmental impact assessments.
• Provide technical direction on rainfall‑runoff modelling, river flow estimation, climate change allowances, and catchment analysis.
• Oversee and review hydrological modelling outputs, ensuring quality, accuracy, and compliance with UK regulatory guidance.
• Act as technical lead on major frameworks and multidisciplinary projects across transport, energy, water, and development sectors.
• Advise clients on flood risk policy, drainage strategy, abstraction licensing, and environmental permitting requirements.
• Mentor and develop junior hydrologists, fostering technical excellence and knowledge sharing.
• Support business development activities, including bid preparation and client relationship management.

If you’re passionate about innovation and turning bold ideas into reality, AECOM welcomes you. Join our team, where we don’t just construct infrastructure but also uplift communities and enhance lives.

• Be part of a dynamic team tackling challenging and impactful water projects.
• Work alongside industry‑leading professionals and thought leaders.
• Engage in a collaborative and inclusive work environment.
• Access continuous learning and development opportunities.
• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Enjoy the flexibility to work in a way that fits your lifestyle while supporting a healthy work‑life balance.

• Degree (BSc/BEng/MSc) in Hydrology, Civil Engineering, Environmental Science, Geography, or a related discipline.
• Extensive experience delivering hydrological assessments within consultancy or regulatory environments.
• Strong knowledge of UK hydrological guidance (e.g., FEH methods, Flood Estimation Handbook, EA guidance).
• Experience with hydrological modelling tools and data analysis software.
• Proven ability to lead projects and provide technical oversight.
• Chartered status (CEng, CSci, or CEnv) or working towards chartership.
• Excellent communication skills with experience engaging clients and stakeholders.

You will also be self‑motivated with an ability to work both autonomously where required, with a strong sense of commitment, a willingness to learn and a desire to work in a dynamic deadline‑driven team environment.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines. AECOM is a Disability Confident Employer and will offer an interview to applicants who have a disability or long‑term condition, who meet the minimum/essential criteria for the role. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and we welcome applications from all backgrounds and abilities.

To apply or to learn more about the role, please visit our careers page or contact the recruiter via Linked In.