Who are United Utilities?
United Utilities is responsible for water and wastewater services in the North West of England. From we will undertake the largest investment in water and wastewater services in the North West in 100 years - that's more than £13 billion worth of projects. Now, more than ever, we need inspiring future talent to help make the North West stronger, greener, and healthier.
Whatever area of our business your interests lie in, our 3-year graduate programme will give you first-class training and support, together with an in-depth understanding of your chosen business area. You might enter our scheme as a graduate, but one thing's for sure, before long you'll be heading into your next role as a technical, operational or people leader.
Whichever scheme you join, you'll be at the heart of bringing innovation and positive change to the water industry. Ready to flow into your future with us?
About the scheme:
Join our 3-year Graduate Programme at United Utilities as an Operational Future Leader and become an integral part of our innovative Water Services or Wastewater Services teams across Cumbria.
This scheme is for those who are looking to develop into key leadership roles within our operational teams, so if you see yourself managing some of our treatment works or networks and the teams that are responsible for providing Water and Wastewater Services to our customers, then this is the scheme for you.
At United Utilities we operate across five counties, each with its own unique needs and priorities. As part of the scheme, you'll spend most of your time with the Cumbria county teams, working both on site and in an office setting. Alongside the county locations, our headquarters is based in Warrington, providing a central hub for regional planning and operations.
We pride ourselves on fostering a supportive and inclusive culture where all team member's contributions are valued. You will benefit from a robust support network that offers extensive learning and development opportunities. You'll gain a deep understanding of what it takes to lead one of our teams and manage our water and wastewater systems. This includes the operation and maintenance of our assets and the regulatory and legislative framework governing the water industry.
Start living your future today
What will I be doing?
* The scheme offers fantastic learning and development opportunities through structured placements, formal leadership training, creative innovation challenges and a robust support network, helping you build a successful career in a major utility company.
* As an Operational Future Leader, you'll enjoy structured placements across various areas like Treatment and Network Operations, County System Performance and our Central Integrated Control Centre, giving you a comprehensive view of our operations and preparing you to lead one of our teams.
* You will develop excellent communication, leadership, and change management skills, motivating teams to improve performance and meet high service standards.
* You'll learn to think strategically to drive our organisation's growth, essential for your future success
What do I need to be successful?
We require our future leader graduates to have minimum 2:1 (or 2:2 with Masters)
in any relevant technical, scientific, environmental, engineering or business management degree.
You will need to:
* Be motivated, enthusiastic and have the potential to develop excellent leadership, influencing and communications skills.
* Have good written and interpersonal skills.
* Be an excellent team player, possessing ambition and drive.
* Be able to have the ability to work across a matrix organisation to deliver desired outcomes.
* Be able to work in a variety of different teams from site to office based and be willing to travel to multiple locations in the North West. You may also need to be flexible with working hours at times.
* Have a full UK Drivers licence when the scheme starts (Sep 2026)
* Geographical flexibility across the North West is essential (Carlisle, Kendal)
Additional Information:
Our recruitment process requires you to complete:
* An Online application form
* Online tests
* MS Teams Interview
* An assessment centre, which will take place between 2nd - 5th December 2025 in Leigh, Lancashire. In person attendance is essential.
If you are offered a job with us, a number of pre-employment checks need to be carried out before your appointment can be confirmed. Any offer of employment with United Utilities will be subject to a satisfactory checking report from Disclosure and Barring Service/Disclosure Scotland.
Application deadline: 13th October 2025 – please apply early as deadlines are subject to change
Based on current immigration guidelines this role is not eligible for visa sponsorship
Why choose United Utilities for your graduate journey?
Competitive Salary and Benefits
* Starting salary of £31,250, increasing annually.
* 26 days holiday, rising to 30 after four years.
* Up to £500 reimbursed for driving lessons and test*.
* Private healthcare and discounted gym membership.
* Flexible holidays and award-winning pension scheme.
Career Progression Opportunities
* Structured graduate scheme with clear advancement paths.
* Tailored development and cross-business placements.
Personal and Professional Development
* Work in a motivated team and build a strong network.
* Access to training, mentoring, and support groups.
* Potential sponsorship for postgraduate qualifications.
Work-Life Balance
* Flexible working policies to support your lifestyle.
* Supportive environment to help you thrive professionally.
Our Reputation and Culture
* One of the UK's top inclusive employers.
* Committed to customer service, sustainability, and regional growth.
Job Type: Graduate
Pay: £31,250.00 per year
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Cumbria, CA2 5SH