Principal Geotechnical Engineer (Geotechnical & Geoenv)

United Utilities; Warrington; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in water services is seeking a Principal Geotechnical Engineer to provide specialist input to capital programs. The role involves managing technical teams, mentoring engineers, and ensuring high professional standards across various projects. Join a recognized team working on major projects across the North West, with opportunities for career growth and development.

Benefits

26 days annual leave, increasing to 30 after four years

Up to 14% employer pension contribution

Car cash allowance: £5,000

Up to 20% performance bonus

Healthcare and gym discounts

Flexible benefits including parental leave

Qualifications

• Chartered status or ability to attain within 6 months.
• Expertise in geotechnical engineering related to water and wastewater assets.
• Experience managing multidisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead projects and manage technical teams in ground engineering.
• Provide engineering support for reservoir and ground engineering projects.
• Build relationships with internal clients and partners.

Skills

Leadership

Geotechnical Engineering

Project Management

Team Management

Education

Chartered Engineer (C Eng) or Chartered Geologist (C Geol)

Registered Ground Engineering Professional

Job description

Principal Geotechnical Engineer (Geotechnical & Geoenv)

Job number UU02781 | Location: Lingley Mere, Warrington, UK | Region: Cheshire West and Chester | Salary: Competitive | Work Type: Hybrid | Role: Permanent | Hours: 37 per week | Closing Date: 08/06/2025

About us

United Utilities (UU) is committed to delivering great water services in the North West of England, focusing on environmental respect, economic support, and societal benefits. We value diversity, inclusion, and innovation, fostering a culture of growth and excellence. As a FTSE 100 company, we offer competitive benefits and a supportive working environment.

Benefits

• 26 days annual leave, increasing to 30 after four years, plus 8 bank holidays
• Up to 14% employer pension contribution
• Car cash allowance: £5,000
• Up to 20% performance bonus
• Healthcare, gym discounts, and other wellness benefits
• Flexible benefits including parental leave and employee assistance

Job Purpose

Reporting to the Chief Engineer, you will provide specialist ground engineering input to UU's capital programs and assets, leading projects and developing strong internal relationships. You will manage technical teams, mentor engineers, and ensure high professional standards across the organization.

Accountabilities & Responsibilities

• Maintain professional qualifications and develop technical expertise.
• Build relationships with internal clients and partners.
• Support business development and risk management strategies.
• Provide engineering support for reservoir and ground engineering projects, including design, technical advice, and liaison with operational teams.
• Lead and develop a team of geotechnical and geoenvironmental engineers, overseeing technical decision-making and project delivery within budget and schedule.

Technical Skills & Experience

• Chartered status (C Eng or C Geol).
• Registered Ground Engineering Professional at Adviser level or able to attain within 6 months.
• Expertise in geotechnical engineering related to water and wastewater assets, including dams, reservoirs, foundations, and earth structures.
• Strong leadership, influencing skills, and experience managing multidisciplinary teams.
• Experience across project lifecycle, from conception to handover.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of embankment dam ground engineering is advantageous.
• Full driving license.

About the Team

Join our Ground Engineering team to work on major projects like aqueducts and reservoirs, applying your expertise in diverse ground conditions across the North West. Our team influences national standards and has received industry recognition for innovative solutions.

Other

We are committed to excellent service and offer development opportunities to support your career growth at UU.