2026 UK Graduate Civil Engineering Career Path: Water Sector
Join Mott MacDonald in shaping the future of water infrastructure. As a wholly employee‐owned company, we focus on delivering social outcomes, empowering our people, and protecting communities and environments.
Water Engineering – Designing Resilient Infrastructure
Assume responsibility for safe, sustainable water systems across the United Kingdom. Typical tasks include:
* Design pipelines, water and wastewater treatment facilities through feasibility, outline, and detailed stages.
* Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver integrated, sustainable solutions.
* Support projects from planning and modelling to construction, commissioning, and handover.
* Use digital tools to enhance design quality and efficiency.
* Grow your technical and project management skills through mentoring and training.
Dams & Reservoirs – Protecting Communities and Resources
Help design and assess critical infrastructure that supports water supply, flood protection, and hydropower. Typical tasks include:
* Develop conceptual, preliminary, and detailed designs for dams, spillways, intakes, and drawdown facilities.
* Undertake hydraulic and structural analyses, contributing to flood studies and emergency planning.
* Attend site inspections and monitoring activities.
* Prepare drawings, reports, and specifications that shape real‑world outcomes.
* Gain exposure to project, commercial, and client management.
Why These Roles Matter
* Empowering Growth: Support through structured training, mentoring, and real‑world experience.
* Celebrating Achievements: Individual and team recognition.
* Inclusive Culture: Diversity and a respectful workplace.
* Wellbeing First: Flexible working and mental health support.
* Societal Impact: Your work delivers essential services, protects the environment, and builds climate resilience.
Candidate Specification
We seek graduates with a genuine passion to make a difference. Minimum requirements:
* At least 12 months of relevant experience (excluding placements).
* Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, obtained no earlier than 2024.
* Demonstrated interest in Mott MacDonald’s values and projects.
Desired Strengths
* Initiative and efficient, independent task completion.
* Effective communication with clients and colleagues.
* High‑quality written work with strong attention to detail.
* Structured, analytical problem‑solving approach.
Development & Support
A three‑year early‑career program, including mentorship, professional training, and a soft‑skills development framework.
* Biannual salary reviews.
* Competitive salary aligned to industry standards.
* Contributory pension up to 7% of salary.
* Flexible benefits scheme.
* Additional support such as training budgets and travel allowances.
Social & Community
You will have opportunities to expand your network, participate in sports, social, charity events, and enjoy discounts on entertainment, travel, fashion, utilities, and more.
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
We promote fair employment procedures, equal opportunities, and an inclusive environment for all.
Agile Working
Flexible work arrangements to meet client, team, and personal commitments.
About Mott MacDonald
A global engineering, management, and development consultancy dedicated to improving society through excellence, digital innovation, and social outcomes.
Employment Details
Locations: Cambridge, Manchester, Belfast, Bristol, Brighton, Glasgow, Newcastle Upon Tyne, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Inverness, Cardiff, Reading, Leeds.
Contract: Permanent.
Work Pattern: Full Time.
Discipline: Civil Engineering – Water Market.
Job Ref: 11626.
Recruiter Contact: earlycareers.recruitment@mottmac.com.
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