Principal Flood Risk Assessor

Penguin Recruitment; Wigan; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading environmental consultancy is seeking an experienced Principal Hydrologist to deliver high-quality hydrological services. The role involves leading Flood Risk Assessments, mentoring junior team members, and engaging with clients and stakeholders. Ideal candidates will have strong expertise in hydrology, enjoy technical leadership, and embrace flexible working options. Excellent career progression is offered within a supportive team environment.

Benefits

Flexible working

Professional development opportunities

Inclusive company culture

Qualifications

• Chartered member of a relevant professional body.
• Strong background in hydrology and flood risk assessment.
• Confident communicator able to work independently.

Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of Flood Risk Assessments.
• Prepare and review technical tenders and reports.
• Engage with stakeholders throughout the design process.

Skills

Leadership

Hydrology expertise

Communication

Organizational skills

Education

Chartered membership of a relevant professional body

Tools

FEH

WINFAP

Flood Modeller

HEC-RAS

AutoCAD

WinDES

MS Office

Job description

Principal Hydrologist

Location: UK Wide (Hybrid or Remote Options Available)

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 ideal role for someone who enjoys technical leadership, project ownership and contributing to major land, infrastructure and development assessments.

The Opportunity

As a Principal Hydrologist, you will lead the preparation of Flood Risk Assessments, drainage assessments, EIA input, tender submissions and hydrological modelling studies. You will act as the main point of contact for designated projects while supporting, mentoring and reviewing the work of more junior team members. This is a client-facing, technically varied and rewarding position offering excellent opportunities for progression within a supportive and knowledgeable team.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of Flood Risk Assessments, hydrology reports and EIA contributions.
• Prepare and review technical tenders, calculations, models and reports.
• Provide clear leadership across allocated projects, ensuring quality, accuracy and timely delivery.
• Engage with LLFAs, the Environment Agency and other stakeholders throughout the design process.
• Use hydrological modelling software including FEH, WINFAP, Flood Modeller and HEC‑RAS.
• Support the development of drainage assessments and outline designs.
• Contribute to internal project coordination, programming and communication activities.
• Mentor junior hydrologists and engineers, providing guidance and technical checking.
• Maintain up to date knowledge of legislation, design standards and best practice.
• Assist in wider business development activities and client relationship management.

About You

• Chartered member of a relevant professional body.
• Strong background in hydrology, flood risk assessment and associated modelling software.
• Confident communicator, able to work independently and collaboratively.
• Skilled in FEH-based analysis, WINFAP, Flood Modeller, HEC‑RAS and similar tools.
• Proficient in AutoCAD, WinDES and standard MS Office applications.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to prioritise multiple workstreams.

Why This Role?

You will join a forward-thinking consultancy committed to flexible working, professional development and a positive, inclusive culture. The team is known for delivering high-quality hydrological and land development work, offering excellent support, varied projects and clear progression opportunities. This role provides the chance to influence major UK schemes while developing your technical and management capability.