At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead teams in producing hydraulic models and optimise water solutions.
- Company: Join Northern Ireland Water, a leader in sustainable water management.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, generous leave, and wellness programmes.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on water sustainability while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Degree in Engineering or related field with managerial experience in water modelling.
The predicted salary is between 44264 - 59018 € per year.
Principal Water Modeller is a technical and leadership post within Northern Ireland Water’s Asset Management department. The successful candidate will lead teams responsible for the production of hydraulic models and the analysis and recommendations driven from those models fundamental to the successful delivery of the PC21/28/33 business plans. As lead for the in-house Water Modelling Team you will manage the overall hydraulic modelling scope of work. This includes the development of hydraulic models to inform schemes within the CWP, lead the development of a programme of model maintenance to update the entire model stock. You will use predictive hydraulic modelling to optimise solutions and identify capital investment requirements. The role will also require you to support the operational, situational and developer issues that arise. The role is highly collaborative in nature and will involve engagement with internal and external stakeholders and influencing strategy across directorates and functions.
Applicants MUST be able to demonstrate in their application and where necessary at interview:
- ESSENTIAL CRITERIA
- Candidates must be able to provide proof of qualification by application closing date: A relevant third level qualification (e.g. Degree/ HNC/ HND or equivalent) in Engineering, Geography or Environmental discipline and 3 years’ managerial experience at middle management level (minimum Band 5 in NI Water) in water hydraulic modelling. OR in the absence of 3rd Level Qualification: A minimum 5 years managerial experience at a middle management level (minimum Band 5 in NI Water) in water hydraulic modelling.
- Minimum 5 years’ experience of using Aquis or Infoworks WS models (or similar software) to develop optimised solutions for water networks.
- At least 6 months experience of Budgetary management, financial control and governance for modelling studies.
- Demonstrate proven experience of influencing internal and external stakeholders at all levels to achieve a successful outcome.
- Demonstrate a strong focus on data quality and evidence-based decision making.
- Demonstrate relevant knowledge of the water industry and innovations relating to water modelling.
What is on Offer
- Salary: This role offers a competitive remuneration package with a salary scale of £44,264 to £59,018 per annum (pay award pending). The starting salary will normally be at the first point of the scale.
- Location: Westland Complex, 40 Old Westland Road, Belfast BT14 6TE; Ballykeel Depot, 188 Larne Road, Ballymena, Co Antrim, BT42 3HA; Seagoe Depot, Unit 41 Seagoe Industrial Estate, Portadown, Craigavon, BT63 5QE; Gelvin Grange, Irish Street Derry~Londonderry, BT47 2LD.
What we Offer
- Generous annual leave and public/privilege holidays.
- Flexible working and family friendly policies.
- Hybrid Working (applicable to some of our roles after three months following onboarding and training).
- Occupational sick pay.
- Employee assistance programmes.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- One of the largest corporate volunteering schemes in NI.
- Award winning health and wellbeing programme which focuses on supporting four key areas of employee health: Physical, Mental, Social and Financial.
How to Apply
To submit your application, please click the APPLY icon. For additional information about the role please download a Candidate Brief, available below. Closing date for submission of Applications: Monday 8th June 2026 at 10.00am. Interview Dates: Thursday 18th June.
Principal Water Modeller employer: NI Water
Northern Ireland Water is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With generous annual leave, flexible working options, and a strong focus on health and wellness, employees are supported both personally and professionally. The opportunity to lead innovative water modelling projects in a dynamic environment makes this role not only rewarding but also impactful for the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Water Modeller
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the water industry. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! When you get the chance to chat with hiring managers or during interviews, make sure to highlight your experience with Aquis or Infoworks WS models. Share specific examples of how you've used these tools to solve problems and optimise solutions.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared for those tricky questions! Brush up on your knowledge of the water industry and innovations in water modelling. Think about how you can demonstrate your data quality focus and evidence-based decision-making skills during the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to see your application come through directly. It shows you're serious about the role and gives us a chance to see your enthusiasm right from the start. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Water Modeller
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Qualifications:Make sure to highlight your relevant qualifications right at the start. We want to see that degree or equivalent experience shining through, so don’t hold back on showcasing your educational background and managerial experience in water hydraulic modelling.
Be Specific About Your Experience:When detailing your experience with Aquis or Infoworks WS models, be as specific as possible. We’re looking for examples of how you’ve developed optimised solutions, so share those success stories that demonstrate your skills and impact.
Engage with Stakeholders:Since this role involves a lot of collaboration, mention any experiences where you’ve influenced internal and external stakeholders. We love to see how you’ve navigated complex situations and achieved successful outcomes through teamwork.
Focus on Data Quality:Don’t forget to emphasise your commitment to data quality and evidence-based decision making. We value candidates who can demonstrate a strong focus on these areas, so include examples that showcase your analytical skills and attention to detail.
How to prepare for a job interview at NI Water
✨Know Your Models Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in Aquis and Infoworks WS models, as well as any similar software. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've used these tools to develop optimised solutions for water networks. This will show your technical expertise and how you can contribute to the team.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Water Modeller, you'll be leading teams, so highlight your managerial experience. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed projects or teams in the past, especially in middle management roles. This will demonstrate your capability to lead the in-house Water Modelling Team effectively.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
This role requires collaboration with various stakeholders. Think of instances where you've influenced internal and external parties to achieve successful outcomes. Be ready to discuss your communication strategies and how you build relationships to drive results.
✨Focus on Data Quality
Emphasise your commitment to data quality and evidence-based decision-making. Prepare to discuss how you've ensured high standards in your previous work and how this has impacted project outcomes. This will align with the essential criteria and show your dedication to excellence in the water industry.
