Principal Hydraulic Modeller (Flood Risk)

WSP in the UK & Ireland; Bristol; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid working

Wellbeing programme

Chartership support

Flexible leave options

Job summary

WSP is seeking Hydraulic / Flood Risk Modellers to support its national programme across government and infrastructure projects. The role offers a technical leadership path in fluvial and pluvial modelling, contributing to high-impact flood risk studies and policy outcomes.

You will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, manage modelling studies, and prepare clear reports and proposals while benefiting from a flexible hybrid working model across the UK.

Qualifications

• Strong track record in fluvial and pluvial hydraulic modelling.
• Experience providing technical leadership and reviewing models for statutory bodies.
• Commercial awareness including project management and bid support.
• Ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams.
• Experience in infrastructure, local authority or national government projects.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to build trusted client relationships.
• Chartered status with a relevant professional body, or close to achievement.
• Useful additional experience could include GIS, FCERM studies, Flood Risk Assessments, flood policy knowledge and UK flood estimation methods.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical leadership for fluvial and pluvial modelling using software such as Flood Modeller, TUFLOW, HEC‑RAS or Infoworks ICM.
• Coordinate and manage flood modelling studies and develop appropriate modelling approaches.
• Review hydraulic models and ensure technical quality.
• Prepare clear technical reports, presentations and project deliverables.
• Lead or support proposal writing, opportunity identification and business development.
• Liaise with clients, regulators and other stakeholders to support successful project outcomes.

Skills

Fluvial modelling

Pluvial modelling

Technical leadership

Model review

Client liaison

Project management

Education

Chartered status with a relevant professional body

BEng/BSc in Civil/ Hydraulic Engineering

Tools

Flood Modeller

TUFLOW

HEC-RAS

Infoworks ICM

Job description

Job Description

Our Sustainable Water Management Team is growing, and we are looking for Hydraulic / Flood Risk Modellers who want to make a real impact. You will play a key role in delivering our national programme of flood risk work, supporting major infrastructure, FCERM studies and strategic projects across government, water, transport and energy sectors. This is your opportunity to take on a technical role that will influence the direction of projects, collaborate with a range of disciplines and help guide the development of our national hydraulic modelling capability.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical leadership for fluvial and pluvial modelling using software such as Flood Modeller, TUFLOW, HEC‑RAS or Infoworks ICM.
• Coordinate and manage flood modelling studies and develop appropriate modelling approaches.
• Review hydraulic models and ensure technical quality.
• Prepare clear technical reports, presentations and project deliverables.
• Lead or support proposal writing, opportunity identification and business development.
• Liaise with clients, regulators and other stakeholders to support successful project outcomes.

Qualifications

• A strong track record in fluvial and pluvial hydraulic modelling.
• Experience providing technical leadership and reviewing models for statutory bodies.
• Commercial awareness including project management and bid support.
• Ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams.
• Experience in infrastructure, local authority or national government projects.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to build trusted client relationships.
• Chartered status with a relevant professional body, or close to achievement.
• Useful additional experience could include GIS, FCERM studies, Flood Risk Assessments, flood policy knowledge and UK flood estimation methods.

Benefits

Work‑life balance: Our hybrid working policy offers the flexibility to work from home two days a week, while also providing opportunities to collaborate in modern offices across the UK.

Inclusivity & Belonging: We welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and experiences and encourage people to bring their whole and authentic selves to work.

Health & Wellbeing: Our Thrive programme and Virtual GP service support your health and wellbeing. We also provide a Gymflex scheme and a comprehensive menopause support package.

Flex your time: WSP offers WSP My Hour, allowing you to take one hour each day for personal activities with flexibility to make up the time earlier or later. We also provide part‑time and flexible working arrangements as well as additional leave options.

Your development: We invest in your growth through training, mentoring, and Chartership support.

EEO Statement

Here at WSP we positively encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy or maternity/paternity. As a Disability Confident leader, we will interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria, please let us know if you require any workplace adjustments in support of your application.