At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead ambitious water programmes, shaping technical strategy and driving innovative solutions.
- Company: Jacobs, a forward-thinking company solving critical global challenges.
- Benefits: Flexible working, strong wellbeing focus, and clear progression to Director level.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with investment in personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a lasting impact on significant water projects while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Degree in Civil Engineering, Chartered Engineer status, and experience in complex design.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
At Jacobs, we're challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world's most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission‑critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting‑edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good.
Your impact
This is more than a role, it’s your opportunity to shape some of the UK’s most ambitious water programmes during a once‑in‑a‑generation transformation. As an Associate Director/Principal, you’ll sit at the heart of delivery, setting the technical direction, influencing programme outcomes and leading the teams that make it happen. From detailed design to live construction, your decisions will drive safe, buildable, innovative solutions that stand the test of time. You’ll be the trusted voice clients rely on, the technical leader teams look up to, and the driving force behind delivery excellence across complex Design & Build environments.
About the Opportunity
With unprecedented investment across AMP cycles and long‑term frameworks, we’re growing — and we’re looking for leaders ready to step up and make a difference. At Jacobs, you’ll:
- Lead from the front – owning technical strategy, governance, and final design sign‑off across major water and wastewater projects
- Influence at scale – shaping programme‑wide decisions, driving value engineering and commercial outcomes
- Champion delivery excellence – embedding constructability, safety and innovation into every solution
- Collaborate without boundaries – working across multidisciplinary teams, clients and delivery partners in truly integrated environments
- Develop and inspire – growing high‑performing teams while advancing digital engineering, standardisation and modern methods of construction
- Drive growth – contributing to bids, strengthening client relationships and shaping the future of Jacobs’ water capability
This is a career‑defining leadership role with a clear pathway toward Director level, where your expertise will have visible, lasting impact.
Here’s what you’ll need
- Degree in Civil Engineering (or related discipline)
- Chartered Engineer (CEng) – ICE or equivalent
- Proven experience delivering complex detailed design in regulated water/wastewater environments
- Strong track record in Design & Build or alliancing delivery models
- The ability to act as a senior technical authority, resolving complex challenges with confidence
- Exceptional stakeholder and client engagement skills
And if you bring these, even better
- Experience at programme or framework level
- Knowledge of NEC3 / NEC4 contracts
- Ability to influence commercial outcomes through technical leadership
- Strong digital and BIM capability
- Passion for business growth and strategic development
What’s In It for You
- A high‑impact leadership role on nationally significant water programmes
- The chance to shape technical strategy and innovation at scale
- A clear pathway to Director‑level progression
- Flexible working and a strong commitment to wellbeing and work‑life balance
- A collaborative, forward‑thinking culture with real investment in people and capability
Lead Civil Engineer – Water Detailed Design (Assoc Dir) employer: Jacobs
At Jacobs, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a high-impact leadership role that allows you to shape the future of the UK's water programmes. Our collaborative and forward-thinking culture fosters innovation and personal growth, with a clear pathway to Director-level progression and a strong commitment to work-life balance. Join us in making a meaningful impact while enjoying flexible working arrangements and the opportunity to lead multidisciplinary teams in delivering transformative solutions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Civil Engineer – Water Detailed Design (Assoc Dir)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals, attend events, and join relevant groups. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that dream role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio that highlights your best projects and achievements in civil engineering. This will give potential employers a clear picture of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios related to water programmes and design challenges. We want you to feel confident and ready to impress when it’s your turn to shine!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Civil Engineer – Water Detailed Design (Assoc Dir)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Water Engineering:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for water engineering shine through. We want to see how your experience aligns with our mission to tackle critical problems in this field. Share specific examples of projects you've worked on that demonstrate your commitment and expertise.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Lead Civil Engineer role. Highlight your relevant experience in detailed design and your ability to lead teams effectively. We love seeing candidates who take the time to connect their skills with what we’re looking for!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured documents that are easy to read. Use bullet points where necessary and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the role. This helps us quickly understand your qualifications and fit for the position.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about Jacobs and our exciting projects in the water sector.
How to prepare for a job interview at Jacobs
✨Know Your Technical Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your civil engineering principles, especially those related to water and wastewater projects. Be ready to discuss your past experiences in detail, showcasing how you've tackled complex design challenges and influenced project outcomes.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
As a potential Associate Director, it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership capabilities. Prepare examples of how you've led teams, influenced stakeholders, and driven delivery excellence in previous roles. Highlight your ability to inspire and develop high-performing teams.
✨Understand the Company’s Vision
Familiarise yourself with Jacobs' mission and values. Be prepared to discuss how your personal goals align with their vision of solving critical problems and driving innovation in water programmes. This shows you're not just looking for a job, but a place where you can make a real impact.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and technical authority. Think about past projects where you had to resolve complex challenges and be ready to explain your thought process and decision-making strategies.
