At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead drainage design and ensure compliance with environmental standards on exciting projects.
- Company: Join Naturally Compliant, a forward-thinking environmental consultancy making a real impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous leave, private health insurance, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Be part of a growing team focused on collaboration and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Shape the future of sustainable construction while developing your career in a dynamic team.
- Qualifications: Degree in Environmental Science or related field; experience in drainage systems preferred.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 60000 £ per year.
- Principal Drainage Engineer | Drainage Design
- Performance-related profit share scheme
- 7% employer pension contribution
- 25 days annual leave plus 8 flexible bank holidays
- Private health insurance, wellbeing and volunteer days
- EV salary sacrifice scheme and Cycle to Work scheme
At Naturally Compliant, we're a forward-thinking environmental and construction consultancy dedicated to enhancing environmental performance during the construction phase of infrastructure and development of nationally significant projects.
We’re known for doing things properly.
No box‑ticking.
No “good enough.” We support clients across renewables, infrastructure, utilities, and land management with environmental oversight that genuinely improves project outcomes.
Our ecology and environmental teams work side by side.
We've found that the strongest environmental outcomes come from disciplines that talk to each other constantly, not ones working in silos and comparing notes at the end.
That integrated way of working is what our clients come to us for, and it's what we're proud to build our reputation on.
We're growing our water team, and we're looking for people who want to help shape that growth - not just fill a seat within it.
This role blends hydrological expertise - particularly in construction phase drainage - with broader environmental consultancy responsibilities.
You’ll contribute to Naturally Compliant’s mission to deliver sustainable, compliant, and high-performing projects across Scotland & the UK.
The opportunity
We're looking for an experienced Principal Drainage Engineer or Hydrologist to lead and develop our water and drainage service line.
Provide specialist hydrology input during construction, focusing on drainage design, implementation, and compliance.
- Develop, review, and implement environmental management plans and drainage strategies.
- Deliver site-based environmental assurance and advisory services to clients and contractors.
- Monitor water quality, surface water runoff, and sediment control measures.
- Liaise with design teams to influence environmentally sound drainage solutions.
- Conduct site inspections and audits to ensure compliance with environmental permits and planning conditions.
- Prepare technical reports and contribute to client documentation.
- Support stakeholder engagement and build strong client relationships.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to integrate hydrology into broader environmental frameworks.
- Contribute to Naturally Compliant’s continuous improvement and knowledge sharing culture
What we're looking for
- Degree in Environmental Science, Hydrology, Civil Engineering, or related field.
- Solid understanding of UK environmental and construction sector regulations.
- Experience with construction phase drainage systems, water quality monitoring, and permit compliance.
- Familiarity with environmental management systems and site-based delivery.
Desirable
- Membership of CIWEM, ICE, or similar professional body.
- Experience working on renewable energy or infrastructure projects.
- Knowledge of GIS, Auto CAD, or hydrological modelling tools.
- CSCS card or equivalent site access certification
- What's on offer
- £45,000–£60,000+ depending on experience
- Performance-related profit share scheme
- 7% employer pension contribution
- 25 days annual leave plus 8 flexible bank holidays
- Private health insurance, wellbeing and volunteer days
- EV salary sacrifice scheme and Cycle to Work scheme
This is a genuine opportunity to build a service line, a client base, and a reputation for technical excellence within a business that puts environmental outcomes first.
APPLY NOW or to find out more, contact Jim Merryfield at Clean Tech Talent, our retained recruitment partner for this role.
Drainage Engineer in Southampton employer: Naturally Compliant
Naturally Compliant is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee growth and development within a supportive and innovative work culture. As a Principal Drainage Engineer or Hydrologist, you will enjoy the autonomy to shape your service line while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams on impactful projects across the UK. With competitive benefits including private health insurance, generous annual leave, and a performance-related profit share scheme, you'll find a rewarding environment that values both your professional contributions and personal well-being.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Drainage Engineer in Southampton
✨Get Involved in Local Environmental Initiatives
Dive into your local environmental scenes, like community clean-up projects or eco-focused events. Not only will you meet like-minded people, but it's a surefire way to showcase your passion and skills in environmental engineering tech.
✨Join Industry-Specific Organisations
Check out organisations like the Institution of Environmental Engineers for networking opportunities and resources. They often host events and seminars that can help us connect with key players in the industry, including potential employers like Naturally Compliant.
✨Show Off Your Projects and Passion
Create a portfolio that highlights any relevant projects, whether it's coursework, internships, or personal initiatives. Share this online, perhaps even on platforms like GitHub or your own website, to grab the attention of hiring managers looking for talent like us.
✨Utilise Environmental Job Boards
Take advantage of niche job boards dedicated to environmental careers. Sites like Green Jobs, Environmental Career and EcoJobs often feature openings from companies like Naturally Compliant and can help us land that full-time gig.
We think you need these skills to ace Drainage Engineer in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for a role in environmental engineering tech, make sure to highlight your technical skills like CAD software proficiency, data analysis, or modelling techniques. These are essential for the job and should stand out in your CV and cover letter, showing how you can contribute to projects at Naturally Compliant.
Demonstrate Your Passion for Sustainability:In this field, showcasing your passion for sustainability and environmental protection can set you apart. Include any relevant projects, volunteer experience, or courses that underline your commitment to these causes. Naturally Compliant will appreciate candidates who genuinely care about making a difference.
Tailor Your Application to the Role:Don't just send a generic CV and cover letter. Make sure to tailor your application to the specific role of Drainage Engineer at Naturally Compliant. Highlight experiences that align directly with the job description and give concrete examples of your work to demonstrate that you’re the right fit for a full-time position.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have certifications related to environmental engineering or technology, like LEED Accreditation or any relevant software certifications, make sure to mention them. These qualifications can boost your application and show that you’re serious about your professional development in this competitive field.
How to prepare for a job interview at Naturally Compliant
✨Brush Up on Environmental Regulations
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest environmental regulations and standards. In an environmental engineering tech role at Naturally Compliant, you might be asked specific questions about compliance measures, so understanding these will definitely give you an edge.
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your proficiency with relevant tools and software, such as AutoCAD or GIS. You might be given a practical problem to solve during the interview, so it’s a great idea to brush up on these skills and perhaps even bring a portfolio of your projects to showcase your technical prowess.
✨Highlight Your Passion for Sustainability
In a full-time role, employers are looking for commitment and enthusiasm. Share your experiences, studies, or projects that reflect your passion for environmental sustainability. This will show Naturally Compliant that you're not just qualified but genuinely invested in the field.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Be ready for behavioural questions that assess how you handle teamwork, conflict, and project management. Think of examples from your studies or practical experiences where you tackled challenges effectively, showcasing both your technical and interpersonal skills.
