Principal Water Quality Consultant (Uk wide) in Manchester

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.

As an integral part of cross‑functional project teams—including fluvial geomorphologists, hydrologists, geomorphologists, and hydro‑geologists—you will lead high‑profile water quality projects and initiatives that deliver measurable improvements to quality standards and regulatory compliance for generations to come.

• Provide technical leadership and direction for water quality studies – modelling, investigations, data analytics, urban pollution modelling, and EIA.
• Collaborate with business leaders to deliver continued growth and expand the capability footprint.
• Stakeholder interface and management across all technical and commercial matters.
• Support project teams, coordinating planning and tender (preparing schedule and scope of works).
• Develop impact assessment strategies and processes that mitigate risks of emerging chemicals on major new water resource and supply options and environmental enhancement opportunities.
• Ensure quality, process and governance is embedded into and underpins all policy and regulatory development, meeting and exceeding current and future regulatory regimes and specifications.
• Continuously develop subject‑matter expertise in the application of UK and Europe water quality modelling standards and analytics.
• Check and review calculations and technical deliverables.
• Write and review technical reports.
• Proactively contribute to the ongoing development of a supportive team environment, taking an active role in mentoring and professional development of colleagues.

• A sound knowledge of a core discipline such as estuarine and coastal modelling or the impact of PFAS on drinking water, bringing a substantive subject‑matter expertise level of knowledge.
• Degree qualified in a relevant environmental subject (Environmental Science, Earth Science, Geography).
• Chartered or Fellow member of CIWEM or equivalent.
• Proven experience of technical review skills, able to programme, run and complete high‑quality environmental assessments.
• A track record in supporting the professional development of peers and colleagues.
• A good understanding of recent developments in water quality policy and legislation, key environmental legislation and issues, with respect to water quality.
• Collaborative approach to working with and supporting the personal development of colleagues and peers in a multidisciplinary environment.
• A knowledge of water quality issues across multiple disciplines, including emerging chemicals, nature‑based solutions, natural flood risk management, urban pollution modelling, nutrient modelling, environmental permitting.
• Exposure to stakeholders/clients, including Defra, Environment Agency, Natural Resources Wales, Planning Authorities, Lead Local Flood Authorities, Environmental NGOs, National Highways.

We value safety, integrity, inclusion, and belonging. We provide flexible working arrangements, well‑being benefits, a global volunteering programme, and opportunities to support our clients in creating a better world. As a disability confident employer, we interview disabled candidates who best meet the criteria and welcome applications from those seeking flexible working or who may not meet all listed requirements.