2026 UK Graduate Mechanical Engineering Career Path: Water Sector
2026 UK Graduate Mechanical Engineering Career Path: Water Sector

2026 UK Graduate Mechanical Engineering Career Path: Water Sector

Leeds Entry level 28800 - 48000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Engineer the future of water and contribute to sustainable solutions.
  • Company: Join Mott MacDonald, a global leader in engineering and consultancy.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, biannual reviews, flexible benefits, and a contributory pension.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on communities and the environment while growing your career.
  • Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or related field, with less than 12 months' experience.
  • Other info: Flexible working options and a vibrant company culture focused on diversity and inclusion.

The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.

Before making an application, please browse all graduate opportunities available as we will only accept one application per candidate. Once you have made an application you will not be able to make changes to your selection or make a new application. The exception is if we open new vacancies in the new year.

To avoid missing out on your preferred role, we recommend applying as early as possible, as positions will close once filled.

Job Description

Engineer the Future of Water. Empower Communities. Protect the Planet.

At Mott MacDonald, we’re not just building infrastructure—we’re shaping the systems that deliver clean water, protect public health, and support sustainable living. As a Graduate Mechanical Engineer in our Water Division, you’ll be part of a team that’s transforming the entire water cycle—from abstraction and treatment to distribution and disposal.

You’ll work on high-profile, innovative projects, including advanced resilience schemes at some of the largest wastewater treatment works in the UK, helping protect the River Thames and surrounding communities from pollution and flooding. This is your opportunity to contribute to meaningful change, supported by a culture that values your growth, wellbeing, and ideas.

What You’ll Be Doing

  • Design with purpose: Contribute to mechanical designs across the full water cycle—potable water systems, wastewater treatment, and more.
  • Innovate and collaborate: Work alongside multidisciplinary teams to deliver sustainable, forward-thinking solutions for complex challenges.
  • Learn and grow: Gain exposure to cutting-edge technologies and engineering practices, supported by mentoring and training.
  • Make an impact: Help deliver projects that improve lives, protect ecosystems, and respond to the climate emergency.

Candidate Specification

We are looking for committed and motivated graduates with a genuine passion and a desire to make a difference in the world. If this describes you, apply today to launch your career at Mott MacDonald.

To be eligible for this opportunity, you will have less than 12 months’ relevant experience (excluding placements) and have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree (obtained no earlier than 2024) or expected to achieve a degree in mechanical engineering or similar discipline.

We Are Looking For Graduates With The Following Strengths

  • Proactively takes initiative to complete tasks efficiently and independently.
  • Communicates effectively and clearly with clients and colleagues.
  • Delivers high quality written work with strong attention to detail and clarity.
  • Demonstrates a structured and analytical approach to problem solving.

We support flexible working. Please ask us at interview stage about any flexibility you may need.

Mott MacDonald Ltd. are not currently offering sponsorship to candidates under the Skilled Worker visa route in the UK.

About Your Development

A graduate position should be more than just a job. We know this and so do you. That’s why with our graduate roles we aim to give you the experience and technical knowledge you need to progress your career.

You will have the opportunity to make a difference; learn more about Our Purpose and the difference we can make!

What We Offer

  • Biannual salary reviews: we believe that hard work should be rewarded and recognised.
  • A competitive salary: in addition to biannual reviews, we will ensure that you’re given a salary that matches the current industry standard.
  • Contributory pension up to 7% of your salary: we have the best people on our team, and we like to look out for them.
  • A flexible benefits scheme: our company is made up of a range of different people and we understand that different people want different things.

Our social side

Being part of Mott MacDonald means more than just work; there’s a huge range of fun and exciting things that you can get involved in.

Equality, diversity and inclusion

We put equality, diversity and inclusion at the heart of our business, seeking to promote fair employment procedures and practices to ensure equal opportunities for all.

Agile working

At Mott MacDonald, we believe it makes business sense for you and your manager to choose how you can work most effectively to meet your client, team and personal commitments.

More About Mott MacDonald

We’re a global engineering, management and development consultancy.

Our purpose is to improve society by considering social outcomes in everything we do, relentlessly focusing on excellence and digital innovation, transforming our clients’ businesses, our communities and employee opportunities.

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2026 UK Graduate Mechanical Engineering Career Path: Water Sector employer: Mott MacDonald

Mott MacDonald is an exceptional employer that prioritises your growth and wellbeing while empowering you to make a meaningful impact in the water sector. With a strong commitment to innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity, you'll have access to cutting-edge technologies and collaborative projects that not only enhance your skills but also contribute to protecting our planet and communities. Join us in a dynamic work culture that values diverse perspectives and offers flexible working arrangements, ensuring you thrive both personally and professionally.
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Contact Detail:

Mott MacDonald Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land 2026 UK Graduate Mechanical Engineering Career Path: Water Sector

✨Tip Number 1

Start networking like a pro! Reach out to current employees at Mott MacDonald on LinkedIn or attend industry events. Building connections can give us insights into the company culture and even lead to referrals.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and showcasing your passion for the water sector. We want to see how you can contribute to meaningful change, so think about specific projects or ideas you can discuss.

✨Tip Number 3

Don’t forget to research Mott MacDonald’s recent projects and initiatives. This will not only help you in interviews but also show us that you’re genuinely interested in being part of our mission to protect the planet.

✨Tip Number 4

Apply early through our website! Remember, we only accept one application per candidate, so make sure it’s for the role that excites you the most. The sooner you apply, the better your chances of landing that dream job!

We think you need these skills to ace 2026 UK Graduate Mechanical Engineering Career Path: Water Sector

Mechanical Design
Problem Solving
Communication Skills
Attention to Detail
Analytical Skills
Team Collaboration
Initiative
Adaptability
Technical Knowledge
Sustainable Solutions
Project Delivery
Client Engagement
Engineering Practices
Mentoring

Some tips for your application 🫡

Do Your Research: Before you dive into your application, take a good look at all the graduate opportunities we have on offer. This way, you can make sure you're applying for the role that truly excites you—remember, we only accept one application per candidate!

Apply Early: Don’t wait until the last minute! Positions can close as soon as they’re filled, so get your application in early to avoid missing out on your preferred role. Trust us, it’s better to be ahead of the game.

Showcase Your Passion: When writing your application, let your genuine passion for mechanical engineering and the water sector shine through. We want to see how you can contribute to meaningful change and why you’re excited about this opportunity.

Keep It Clear and Concise: Make sure your written work is high quality with strong attention to detail. Use clear language and structure your thoughts logically. This will help us see your analytical approach and effective communication skills right from the start!

How to prepare for a job interview at Mott MacDonald

✨Know Your Water Cycle

Familiarise yourself with the entire water cycle and how mechanical engineering plays a role in each stage. Be ready to discuss specific projects or technologies that interest you, as this shows your genuine passion for the field.

✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills

Prepare examples of how you've approached complex problems in your studies or previous experiences. Highlight your structured and analytical approach, as this aligns perfectly with what Mott MacDonald is looking for in a candidate.

✨Communicate Clearly

Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and effectively. Whether it's discussing your technical skills or your passion for sustainability, clear communication is key. Consider doing mock interviews with friends to refine your delivery.

✨Emphasise Your Initiative

Demonstrate your proactive nature by sharing instances where you've taken the initiative in projects or group work. Mott MacDonald values candidates who can work independently and efficiently, so make sure to highlight these experiences.

2026 UK Graduate Mechanical Engineering Career Path: Water Sector
Mott MacDonald

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  • 2026 UK Graduate Mechanical Engineering Career Path: Water Sector

    Leeds
    Entry level
    28800 - 48000 £ / year (est.)

    Application deadline: 2027-10-11

  • M

    Mott MacDonald

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