Graduate Mechanical Engineer

A graduate mechanical engineering programme involving mechanical design, site assessments and infrastructure improvements across water, wastewater and bioresources operations, with support towards Chartered Engineer status.

About us

Every day, we deliver one of life's most essential services to millions of people across the North West. From providing safe, high-quality drinking water to protecting the environment and supporting thriving communities, the work we do matters.

We're now in the second year of our £16.5 billion investment programme, one of the largest transformation programmes in our history.  It's an exciting time to join us as we improve our services, enhance environmental performance, embrace innovation and create a more sustainable future for generations to come.

There's more to us than just great water. We are where purpose flows.

What you can expect being a graduate in Mechanical Engineering team

As part of our three-year Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programme, we'll support you every step of the way towards achieving Chartered Engineer status through the IMechE Monitored Professional Development Scheme.

You'll be paired with a dedicated mentor who is a Chartered Engineer at United Utilities, helping you shape your development journey around your career aspirations. Through a combination of structured training, hands-on experience and professional support, you'll build the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to develop a successful career in engineering.

During the programme, you'll gain experience across a range of engineering disciplines, developing your expertise in water, wastewater and bioresources treatment processes while exploring both innovative technologies and the challenges of maintaining critical infrastructure.

Rotating every six months through a variety of placements, which may include Capital Projects, Better Rivers, Operational Deployment, Bioresources, Hydraulics, Design, Standardisation and Innovation, you'll take on increasing responsibility and broaden your understanding of industry regulations, standards and best practice.

You'll also collaborate with graduates from across the business, building a strong professional network and developing a well-rounded understanding of our operations. On successful completion of the scheme, you'll secure a permanent role within our Mechanical Engineering team.

What you’ll be getting stuck into day to day:

• Preparing and reviewing mechanical design deliverables, including specifications, calculations, reports, datasheets, drawings, and schedules.

• Writing clear, concise, and accurate engineering reports and specifications with measurable outputs.

• Conducting site surveys, investigations, and asset condition assessments.

• Developing high-level solutions, feasibility studies, and outline mechanical designs.

• Liaising with contractors and suppliers for quotations and undertake technical appraisals of tenders.

• Understanding water industry standards, regulations, and guidance, including Water Supply Regulations and construction design management.

• Supporting Operations in areas requiring more specialist knowledge

What you’ll bring to the team:

• We require a minimum 2:1 (predicted if not yet graduated) IMechE accredited degree in Mechanical Engineering or a degree meeting IMechE’s CEng accreditation.

• MEng /MSc graduates are preferred, however BEng / BSc graduates will be considered

• BEng graduates must undertake further learning with United Utilities to meet the requirements for Chartership

• Applicants with equivalent degrees must confirm with IMechE and provide evidence.

• You need excellent analytical and problem-solving skills in a mechanical context.

• Knowledge in fluid mechanics, pipework design, materials selection, vibration, and industrial maintenance is essential.

• You must be a team player with ambition, drive, and excellent communication skills.

• A driving license is not required to apply, but you must pass your test within a year of joining.

Why join United Utilities as a Graduate?

By joining us on our 3-year graduate scheme, you'll not only get first-class training and support, but we'll also provide you with an in-depth understanding of your business area, ultimately giving you the confidence, skills and knowledge required to become one of our future operational, technical or people leaders, driving meaningful change.

What's in it for you?

We know that delivering a great service starts with supporting you, our people. That's why we offer a range of benefits designed to help you thrive both at work and outside of it. 

• Starting salary of at least £32,250 + £2,000 welcome bonus

• 26 days annual leave, increasing to 30 days after 4 years + bank holidays

• Enhanced maternity and paternity leave policies

• Up to 14% employer pension contribution

• Access to colleague wellbeing programmes and dedicated mentors who will support you whilst on scheme

• We’ll contribute up to £500 towards driving lessons and tests to help to get you on the road

Our commitment to opportunity for all

We're committed to creating a workplace where you feel you can belong and can succeed.  Our colleague networks play an important role in this, these are;

• GeneQ – supporting gender equality, parents and carers

• Multi-Cultural & Faith

• LGBTQ+

• Armed Forces

• Ability – supporting colleagues with disabilities and long-term health conditions