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 investments. 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 – so that you can develop the skills you need to progress your career as you make a real contribution to the communities we serve. 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.
Working in the North West means there's a lot of ground to cover. You could have the opportunity to work in the heart of the Lake District, or you could sample a taste of city life. As well as our main office in Warrington we also recruit for a variety of roles based across the North West; we have 575 wastewater treatment works and 96 water treatment works in areas from Crewe in Cheshire to Carlisle in Cumbria.
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?
The Role:
You will enrol on a three year graduate programme registering on our Institution of Civil Engineers Approved Training Programme. You will have dedicated support with your development towards an Engineering Council approved professional qualification with the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE). In this role it is important to have a working knowledge of other disciplines such as process, mechanical, electrical, construction and network modelling, so you will have the opportunity to undertake placements across these areas to grow in your knowledge and expertise learning from some of the best in the business.
Start living your future today
What will I be doing?
* Developing your knowledge of civil, hydraulic, geotechnical, structural design, including the development of site layouts, foundation solutions, pipelines and structural arrangements for water, wastewater and bio resource treatment processes.
* Gaining experience in data gathering and analysis required for engineering design, as well as developing your knowledge of health and safety techniques and the regulatory environment - both of which are really important to us.
* Growing in ability to communicate to both technical and non-technical audiences and have the ability to write clear, concise and accurate engineering design specifications with measurable outputs.
* Our capital projects are focussed on all aspects of the water industry and as a civil engineer you will gain experience and expertise in all aspects, from regulation to project development, conceptual design and construction.
What do I need to be successful?:
* Candidates require a minimum 2:1 Accredited Bachelor's Degree classification in Civil Engineering or equivalent.
* Technically competent with good planning, organisational and problem-solving skills
* Strong at written and interpersonal skills
* An excellent communicator at all levels
* An excellent team player
* A full UK Driving Licence when the scheme commences
Additional Information:
Our recruitment process requires you to complete:
* An Online application form
* Online tests
* Online MS Teams Interview.
* Attending an Assessment Centre in person (which may include a group exercise and/or other activities).
Please note that you must be available to attend an in-person recruitment stage during the period 17th November – 19th December
We are an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse environment. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or age. If you require any reasonable adjustments throughout your recruitment journey, please let us know. 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
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 Warrington, WA5 3LP