Principal Flood Risk Assessor in Birmingham)

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

Job summary

A leading environmental consultancy in Birmingham is seeking an experienced Principal Hydrologist. This role involves leading the preparation of flood risk assessments and hydrological modelling studies while mentoring junior colleagues. You will collaborate with clients and regulatory bodies to ensure project quality and deliver innovative hydrology solutions. The position offers hybrid working and significant career progression opportunities.

Benefits

Hybrid working

Flexible benefits

Supportive culture

Qualifications

• Chartered member of a relevant professional institution is required.
• Strong background in hydrology, flood risk assessment, and hydraulic modelling is crucial.
• Proficient in relevant modelling software.

Responsibilities

• Lead production of Flood Risk Assessments and hydrology reports.
• Prepare and review technical reports and calculations.
• Liaise with regulatory authorities and stakeholders.

Skills

Chartered member of a relevant professional institution

Strong background in hydrology

Skill in FEH

Skill in WINFAP

Hydraulic modelling expertise

Proficient in AutoCAD

Organizational and communication skills

Tools

Flood Modeller

HEC-RAS

WinDES

MS Office

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.

Penguin Recruitment is operating as a Recruitment Agency for this position. For more information, contact Andy Hopkins, our Civil Engineering specialist with over 30 years' recruitment experience.