Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage UK hydrogeology projects, focusing on flood and drought resilience.
- Company: Join the British Geological Survey, a leader in geoscience research and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days annual leave, flexible working options, and a generous pension scheme.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on UK water management while collaborating with top professionals.
- Qualifications: Postgraduate degree in Geoscience or related field; extensive UK hydrogeology experience required.
- Other info: Regular travel across the UK is essential for this role.
The predicted salary is between 62434 - 87406 £ per year.
PRINCIPAL HYDROGEOLOGIST
UKRI Pay Band F / S2
£62,434 per annum
A great benefits package is offered including an outstanding pension scheme (with an extremely generous employer contribution on average 27% of your pay), 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays
Permanent
Full-time 37 hours a week or part-time (some flexible working options may be available, including some remote working, in line with BGS policy)
BGS headquarters in Keyworth in Nottingham
Closing date: 29th June 2025
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Principal Hydrogeologist providing science leadership and project management for UK hydrogeology within the BGS Groundwater group. The main focus will be leading and managing the BGS component of the NERC FDRI Programme, the largest investment in UK hydrology for a generation providing innovative monitoring to help resilience to floods and droughts. The BGS work involves overseeing the development of groundwater monitoring infrastructure in a chalk catchment in southeast England and two upland catchment in Scotland and Wales.Regular travel within the UK will be essential. In addition, the post holder will be expected to manage a variety of BGS Groundwater projects mostly related to UK hydrogeology, developing and leading research for the EA, DEFRA and the Water Industry, and developing and maintaining strong networks within the UK Groundwater community.
We are looking for a highly experienced and motivated hydrogeologist with extensive experience of UK hydrogeology and of managing large complex groundwater projects. With a post graduate qualification in a relevant science area (or equivalent comparable work experience), you will have significant experience working within the groundwater sector.Experience of project (including budgetary management), people management and the leadership of challenging and/or change situations are all essential.You will have experience of groundwater research, having designed projects to answer societal issues and a track record of sharing this knowledge through publications and presentations.
The post involves extensive team working; therefore, you should be able to work effectively with others, and be confident leading staff, in a strong multidisciplinary environment, and have very good time management skills.
While we welcome both international and national applications, experience of UK hydrogeology is essential.
Essential requirements
- University degree in Geoscience, Civil Engineering, or Mathematics together with MSc or PhD in Hydrogeology (S)
- Experience of managing large complex groundwater projects (S&I)
- People management experience and skills (S&I)
- Significant experience in managing and carrying out hydrogeological field programmes (S&I)
- A strong record of writing reports for clients (S&I)
- Knowledge and extensive experience of UK Hydrogeology (S&I)
- Ability to prioritise work and meet tight deadlines (S&I)
- Organisational talent, diligence, and attention to detail (S&I)
- Demonstrates an enthusiasm for the work of BGS and our core values of impact, impartiality, and knowledge (I)
- You will be committed to a diverse and inclusive approach to work in the geosciences (S&I)
Desirable requirements
- Project management qualifications (S)
- A strong scientific / research profile with commensurate record of publication andpresentation (I)
- Experience of setting up groundwater monitoring networks (I)
If you experience any issues applying for this role, please contact .
JBRP1_UKTJ
Contact Detail:
British Geological Survey (BGS) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Hydrogeologist
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the hydrogeology field, especially those who have experience with UK projects. Attend relevant conferences or workshops to meet potential colleagues and learn about current trends in groundwater management.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest research and developments in UK hydrogeology. This will not only enhance your knowledge but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in your field during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of large complex groundwater projects you have managed. Highlight your leadership skills and how you successfully navigated challenges, as this will be crucial for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your ability to work in multidisciplinary teams by sharing experiences where collaboration led to successful project outcomes. This is key for a role that involves extensive team working.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Hydrogeologist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Principal Hydrogeologist position. Familiarise yourself with the BGS's work and their core values to tailor your application accordingly.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your extensive experience in UK hydrogeology and managing large groundwater projects. Provide specific examples that demonstrate your leadership skills and project management capabilities.
Showcase Your Research Skills: Since the role involves research and publications, include details about your previous research projects, any publications, and presentations you've delivered. This will help illustrate your scientific expertise and commitment to advancing knowledge in the field.
Tailor Your Application: Customise your application documents to reflect the essential and desirable requirements listed in the job description. Use keywords from the job posting to ensure your application stands out and aligns with what BGS is looking for.
How to prepare for a job interview at British Geological Survey (BGS)
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience managing large, complex groundwater projects. Highlight specific examples where you successfully led a team, managed budgets, and navigated challenges. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the responsibilities of the Principal Hydrogeologist role.
✨Demonstrate Knowledge of UK Hydrogeology
Since experience in UK hydrogeology is essential, make sure to brush up on recent developments and challenges in the field. Be ready to discuss how your knowledge can contribute to the BGS's goals, particularly in relation to flood and drought resilience.
✨Prepare for Teamwork Questions
Given the emphasis on teamwork in this role, think of examples that showcase your ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams. Be ready to explain how you’ve led staff and collaborated with others to achieve project goals.
✨Highlight Your Research and Publication Record
As the role involves sharing knowledge through publications and presentations, be prepared to discuss your research background. Bring examples of your work and be ready to explain how your findings have addressed societal issues in hydrogeology.
