Graduate Geotechnical/Geo Environmental Engineer

Support ground investigations, geotechnical data analysis and the design of foundations, earthworks, retaining structures and ground improvement systems for water and wastewater infrastructure projects.

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 as a graduate in the Ground Engineering team:

Our graduate geotechnical engineers are required to develop their knowledge of site investigations, interpretation of detailed geotechnical data, and the geotechnical design of earthworks, foundations, retaining systems and ground improvement techniques for water, reservoir, wastewater and sludge treatment processes

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

• develop your experience and expertise in data gathering and analysis for engineering design.

• develop your knowledge and experience of varied techniques for ground investigation and geotechnical input into projects

• interface with other disciplines (e.g. process, civil, hydraulics, mechanical, electrical, construction, etc) and project teams

• plan, visit and supervise works on existing schemes

• review and maintain high standards of health and safety risk management associated with project and investigations

• work individually and as a member of a larger team within a project environment

• work towards achieving a relevant professional qualification (or relevant qualification(s))

What you’ll bring to the team:

• competence and understanding of geotechnical concepts, techniques and design

• planning, organisational and problem solving skills

• interpersonal, communication and influencing skills

• team working skills, possessing ambition and drive

• desire to pursue your personal development to build a career in the ground engineering sector

• knowledge and experience of writing desk studies and carrying out practical field work

• knowledge and experience of geotechnical software

To apply for this role, you will need to have or be on course to achieving an MEng /MSc level degree in one of the following subjects

• Geotechnical Engineering

• Engineering Geology

• Geology

• Geoengineering

• Civil Engineering

You will also need:

A full UK driving licence is required, as the role involves travel between project sites. This must be secured by the time that your programme starts.

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

• Annual pay increase and bonus (subject to performance)

• 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 get you on the road

• Want to learn more about life at United Utilities and explore our full benefits package? 

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