Principal Civil Engineer, Water

Start here. Grow here.

Are you looking to take the next step in your career with a company that's delivering the future of water infrastructure?

We’re looking for a Principal Civil Engineer to join our growing Water team in Leeds, Chesterfield, Manchester or Birmingham. As part of a collaborative and forward-thinking multidisciplinary team, you’ll help deliver impactful projects that improve everyday life, across the UK and beyond.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to some of the most high-profile and rewarding infrastructure programmes in the water sector. We work with water and sewerage providers, local authorities, and national clients on a range of projects, from upgrading treatment works to helping shape long-term strategies for sustainability, resilience and growth.

You'll be part of a dynamic local team of high-performing civil engineers, with expertise spanning from apprentice to director level, and integrated within our broader national Water team. This role offers the opportunity to provide technical leadership, mentor and support early-career colleagues, and contribute to their development through line management and training agreements. You’ll also have the chance to enhance your own skills in project and client management, while continuing to grow your technical expertise, with clear opportunities for career development and progression.

Recent Projects Include:

• Major upgrades of sewage and water treatment works at Wanlip, Matlock, and Worcester for Severn Trent.
• CSO investigations and solutions for Anglian Water and Scottish Water (Caledonia Water Alliance).
• Local infrastructure projects for Derbyshire County Council and Derby City.
• Strategic advice for national clients including DEFRA, Network Rail, and National Highways.

Our work covers the full project lifecycle, from feasibility and design to delivery and asset management — offering variety, challenge and purpose.

Here’s what you’ll do:

• Collaborating with engineers, modellers, environmental scientists, and other specialists to deliver high-quality water and wastewater projects.
• Contributing across all design stages, from concept through to detailed design and technical reporting.
• Applying creative and practical thinking to solve real-world engineering challenges.
• Ensuring designs meet relevant standards, regulations, and best practice.
• Leading the technical delivery of key projects and reviewing work produced by others.
• Managing project scope, budget, and timelines effectively.
• Building strong relationships with clients, providing regular updates and technical guidance.
• Mentoring and supporting early-career professionals in your team.

If you're passionate about innovation and turning bold ideas into reality, AECOM welcomes you. Join our team, where we don't just construct infrastructure but also uplift communities and enhance lives. Why not give our AECOM Water page on LinkedIn a follow to stay updated on the impactful projects we're working on and see firsthand the difference we're making in the industry!

Come & Grow with Us.

Become part of our dynamic Water business, which boasts around 600 experts across the UK & Ireland. Collaborate with top-tier civil, mechanical, electrical, and process engineers to deliver a variety of captivating projects, from small initiatives to large-scale ventures, all the way from concept to completion.  Here, you’ll thrive in an inclusive and forward-thinking environment where your contributions are valued.

Enjoy the Perks.

At AECOM, you'll enjoy a range of core and personalised benefits designed to support your future and well-being, customised to fit your lifestyle. Take advantage of career development opportunities, our flexible hybrid working model to ensure a work-life balance that suits your lifestyle, technical practice networks, AECOM University, and volunteering days. We recognise that everyone’s circumstances are different, so we’re more than happy to discuss part-time or flexible working arrangements.