Graduate Geotechnical Engineer

United Utilities; England; On-site; GBP 31,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading water services provider in the UK is seeking a Graduate Geotechnical Engineer to join their team. You will develop expertise in site investigations and geotechnical design while collaborating with multiple disciplines. The role offers a competitive starting salary, comprehensive training, and clear pathways for career progression. Candidates should hold a Master's degree in civil or geotechnical engineering and possess strong interpersonal skills. Applications are due by 13th October 2025.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Private healthcare

Discounted gym membership

Flexible holidays

Award-winning pension scheme

Qualifications

• Master's degree in civil engineering or geotechnical engineering.
• Experience in managing interfaces with other disciplines.
• Desire to pursue personal development in ground engineering.

Responsibilities

• Develop knowledge of site investigations and geotechnical data.
• Collaborate on designs for earthworks and foundations.
• Communicate design concepts to technical and non-technical audiences.

Skills

Planning skills

Problem-solving skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Teamwork

Ambition

Driving Licence

Education

MEng civil engineering with geotechnical content

BSc engineering with MSc in geotechnical

Tools

Geotechnical software (GeoStudio, Plaxis, Oasys)

Job description

Overview

United Utilities is responsible for water and wastewater services in the North West of England. From 2025-2030 we will undertake the largest investment in water and wastewater services in the North West in 100 years - more than £13 billion worth of investments. We aim to attract inspiring future talent to help make the North West stronger, greener, and healthier. Our 3-year graduate programme provides first-class training and support, with an in-depth understanding of your chosen business area to develop the skills needed to progress your career and contribute to the communities we serve. You might enter our scheme as a graduate, but you’ll progress toward roles as a technical, operational or people leader.

Working in the North West offers diverse experiences, including potential placements in the Lake District or city locations. Our main office is in Warrington, with roles across the North West; we operate 575 wastewater treatment works and 96 water treatment works from Crewe in Cheshire to Carlisle in Cumbria. Whichever scheme you join, you’ll be at the heart of bringing innovation and positive change to the water industry. Ready to flow into your future with us?

The role

Our graduate geotechnical engineers develop knowledge of site investigations, interpretation of detailed geotechnical data, and the geotechnical design of earthworks, foundations, retaining systems and ground improvement techniques for water, wastewater and sludge treatment processes.

You will work individually and as part of a team, with experience in managing interfaces with other disciplines e.g. process, civil, hydraulics, mechanical, electrical, construction, etc. This collaboration is essential to deliver robust, reliable, repeatable, commissionable, operable, maintainable, safe and cost‑effective project designs.

You will gain experience in data gathering and analysis for engineering design and develop knowledge of health and safety techniques and the regulatory environment through a balance of office and site work. You will also learn to communicate concepts and ideas regarding design to both technical and non-technical audiences.

During the scheme, you will have opportunities to take part in placements within the wider business and be supported with your professional development toward an engineering council approved professional qualification.

What do I need to be successful?

We require geotechnical engineer graduates to be master degree qualified in either:

• MEng civil engineering with substantial geotechnical engineering content
• BSc engineering, geology/geotechnical, engineering/civil, engineering/geology with an MSc in geotechnical, engineering/engineering, geology/soil mechanics or foundation engineering

You will also need:

• Technical competence with good planning, organisational and problem-solving skills
• Strong interpersonal, communication and influencing abilities
• Good teamwork, ambition and drive
• Desire to pursue personal development and build a career in the ground engineering sector
• A full UK Driving Licence at the start of the scheme

Desirable attributes (not essential as we provide a comprehensive graduate training programme):

• Experience in writing desk studies and carrying out practical field work
• Experience in geotechnical software (e.g. GeoStudio, Plaxis, Oasys)

Additional information

Our recruitment process requires you to complete:

• An Online application form
• Online tests
• An in-person interview and presentation

Please note you must be available to attend an in-person recruitment stage during the period 17th November - 19th December.

We are an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse environment. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or age. If you require any reasonable adjustments throughout your recruitment journey, please let us know. If offered a job with United Utilities, a number of pre-employment checks are required before appointment, and any offer will be subject to a satisfactory checking report from Disclosure and Barring Service/Disclosure Scotland.

Application deadline: 13th October 2025 - please apply early as deadlines are subject to change

Based on current immigration guidelines this role is not eligible for visa sponsorship

Why choose United Utilities for your graduate journey?

Competitive Salary and Benefits: We offer a competitive starting salary of £31,250, reviewed annually, with 26 days of annual leave (increasing to 30 days after four years) plus bank holidays. Up to £500 reimbursed towards driving lessons and tests (subject to time restrictions and valid receipts). Benefits include private healthcare, discounted gym membership, flexible holidays, and an award-winning pension scheme.

Career Progression Opportunities: Our graduate scheme offers clear pathways for advancement, structured programmes, and mentorship, with placements across the business.

Personal and Professional Development: You’ll work within a motivated team, gain experience, and access mentoring, coaching, and internal networks for LGBTQ+, gender equality and neurodiversity. Sponsorship for master’s or other postgraduate qualifications may be available.

Work-Life Balance: We support flexible working policies and a healthy work-life balance as you pursue your career goals.

Our Reputation and Culture: United Utilities is committed to being an inclusive employer, delivering great customer service, protecting the environment, and investing in the region to support future growth.