Principal Water Resources Engineer

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Premium medical aid

Retirement savings

Performance-based bonuses

Remote-first environment

Flexible working arrangements

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban seeks a visionary Principal Water Resources Engineer to lead planning, design, and management of major water projects. You will tackle complex challenges in water supply, wastewater, flood control, and sustainability while mentoring teams and influencing policy.

The role offers a remote-first setup with strong collaboration across government agencies, regulators, and stakeholders, requiring 12+ years of senior experience and PE registration with ECSA.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Water Resources Engineering or related field.
• PhD is a strong plus.
• Pr Eng registration with ECSA.
• 12+ years of progressive water resources experience.
• Experience in leading multidisciplinary teams on large projects.
• Expertise in hydrological and hydraulic modeling.
• Knowledge of water quality, stormwater, and wastewater tech.
• Strong communication, negotiation and presentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and delivery of major water resources projects (dams, pipelines, treatment).
• Perform feasibility studies, impact assessments, and risk analyses.
• Develop hydrological and hydraulic models using industry tools.
• Provide technical guidance to project teams and clients.
• Engage with government/regulators and stakeholders.
• Mentor junior and mid-level engineers.
• Drive technical excellence and knowledge sharing.
• Support strategic plans and proposals for new opportunities.
• Ensure environmental compliance and sustainability in projects.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Communication

Mentoring

Problem solving

Education

Master's degree in Water Resources Engineering

PhD (strong plus)

Tools

HEC-RAS

EPANET

MIKE suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a respected leader in water infrastructure development, is seeking a visionary Principal Water Resources Engineer to join their esteemed team based in Durban . This senior position is critical for driving innovation and excellence in the planning, design, and management of water resources projects. You will be responsible for tackling complex challenges related to water supply, wastewater management, flood control, and environmental sustainability. The ideal candidate will possess a deep technical expertise, a strategic mindset, and a proven track record of successfully delivering large-scale water projects. This role offers the chance to influence policy, mentor emerging talent, and contribute significantly to the sustainable management of water resources in South Africa and beyond. This is a remote-first opportunity, allowing for greater flexibility.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and implementation of major water resources projects, including dams, pipelines, treatment plants, and distribution networks.
• Conduct feasibility studies, impact assessments, and risk analyses for water-related infrastructure.
• Develop and apply advanced hydrological and hydraulic modeling techniques.
• Provide expert technical guidance and oversight to project teams and clients.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with government agencies, regulatory bodies, and stakeholders.
• Mentor and develop junior and mid-level engineers in water resources engineering.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies, research, and best practices in water resource management.
• Contribute to the development of strategic plans and proposals for new business opportunities.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and sustainability principles in all project aspects.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Water Resources Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related field.
• PhD is a strong plus.
• Professional Engineer (Pr Eng) registration with ECSA.
• Over 12 years of progressive experience in water resources engineering, with a significant portion in a senior or principal role.
• Expertise in hydrological and hydraulic modeling software (e.g., HEC-RAS, EPANET, MIKE suite).
• Strong knowledge of water quality management, stormwater management, and wastewater treatment technologies.
• Proven experience in leading multidisciplinary teams and managing complex, multi-stakeholder projects.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and presentation abilities.
• Demonstrated commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.
• Experience working on projects in South Africa or similar challenging environments.

Benefits

Our client provides an attractive salary package designed to attract top-tier talent, alongside a comprehensive benefits scheme including premium medical aid, substantial retirement savings, and performance-based bonuses. We are committed to fostering a supportive and intellectually stimulating remote work environment. Opportunities for continuous professional growth, including advanced training, conference participation, and leadership development programs, are readily available. You'll be working on impactful projects that address critical societal needs. Enjoy generous annual leave and flexible working arrangements.