Principal Flood Risk Assessor

Penguin Recruitment Ltd; Birmingham; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading environmental consultancy in Birmingham seeks an experienced Principal Hydrologist. This role involves technical leadership, client engagement, and management of flood risk assessments and hydrological modelling studies. Candidates should be chartered professionals with strong skills in hydraulic modelling software and project management. The position offers long-term progression and opportunities to work on major UK projects.

Benefits

Hybrid working

Flexible benefits

Supportive culture

Qualifications

• Chartered member of a relevant professional institution.
• Strong background in hydrology, flood risk assessment and hydraulic modelling.
• Skilled in hydrological modelling software and AutoCAD.

Responsibilities

• Lead the production of Flood Risk Assessments and hydrology reports.
• Prepare and review calculations, technical reports and tender submissions.
• Liaise with regulatory bodies and manage project delivery.

Skills

Technical leadership

Client engagement

Hydraulic modelling

Project management

Strong communication skills

Education

Chartered membership in a relevant institution

Tools

FEH

WINFAP

Flood Modeller

HEC-RAS

AutoCAD

WinDES

MS Office applications

Job description

Principal Hydrologist

Location: Birmingham

A fantastic opportunity has arisen for an experienced Principal Hydrologist to join a leading environmental and engineering consultancy delivering hydrology, flood risk and land development services across the UK. This is an excellent position for someone who enjoys technical leadership, client engagement and contributing to complex and rewarding development and infrastructure projects.

The Opportunity

Based in Birmingham, with hybrid working available, this role will see you leading the preparation and review of Flood Risk Assessments, drainage assessments, EIA inputs and hydrological modelling studies. You will work closely with clients, regulatory bodies and internal teams, taking ownership of project quality while mentoring and supporting junior colleagues. This is a key role offering strong long‑term progression and the chance to influence major UK schemes.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the production of Flood Risk Assessments, hydrology reports and EIA documentation.
• Prepare and review calculations, model files, technical reports and tender submissions.
• Manage project delivery, ensuring deadlines, coordination and quality standards are met.
• Liaise with LLFAs, the Environment Agency and other relevant authorities.
• Use modelling software including FEH, WINFAP, Flood Modeller and HEC-RAS.
• Support outline drainage design and flood mitigation strategies.
• Assist with project programmes, resource planning and internal communication.
• Mentor junior team members, offering technical support and quality checking.
• Keep up to date with standards, legislation and industry best practice.
• Support business development and contribute to client relationship activities.

About You

• Chartered member of a relevant professional institution.
• Strong background in hydrology, flood risk assessment and hydraulic modelling.
• Skilled in FEH, WINFAP, Flood Modeller, HEC-RAS and similar software.
• Proficient in AutoCAD, WinDES and standard MS Office applications.
• Strong organisational and communication skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks.
• Able to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.

Why This Role?

You will join a respected consultancy known for delivering high‑quality hydrological and land development work, offering hybrid working, flexible benefits and a supportive, inclusive culture. The Birmingham office has a strong pipeline of varied and interesting projects, giving you the opportunity to develop your technical, management and client‑facing skills while contributing to nationally significant schemes.