Technical Graduate (Water Resources)

Overview

United Utilities is responsible for water and wastewater services in the North West of England. From 2025-2030 we will undertake the largest investment in water and wastewater services in the North West in 100 years – that’s more than £13 billion worth of investments. Now, more than ever, we need inspiring future talent to help make the North West stronger, greener, and healthier.

Whatever area of our business your interests lie in, our 3-year graduate programme will give you first-class training and support, together with an in-depth understanding of your chosen business area – so that you can develop the skills you need to progress your career as you make a real contribution to the communities we serve. You might enter our scheme as a graduate, but one thing\’s for sure, before long you\’ll be heading into your next role as a technical, operational or people leader.

Working in the North West means there\’s a lot of ground to cover. You could have the opportunity to work in the heart of the Lake District, or you could sample a taste of city life. As well as our main office in Warrington we also recruit for a variety of roles based across the North West; we have 575 wastewater treatment works and 96 water treatment works in areas from Crewe in Cheshire to Carlisle in Cumbria.

Whichever scheme you join, you\’ll be at the heart of bringing innovation and positive change to the water industry.

Ready to flow into your future with us?

What will I be doing?

• Develop analytical models and visualisations to drive strategic and operational decisions, making a real impact.
• Identify and deliver automation opportunities to streamline processes and boost efficiency.
• Implement and manage data models, ensuring excellent data quality and an exceptional front-end user experience.
• Communicate with internal stakeholders about water resource modelling issues, becoming a key player in our team.
• Use industry best practices to develop and maintain cutting-edge water resources forecasting and simulation models, ensuring we meet all regulatory standards.

We require our graduates to have a minimum 2:1 degree classification in a relevant scientific or numerate degree.

• Strong skills in data analysis, programming, statistical analysis, and data visualisation.
• Ability to think critically and solve problems proactively.
• Exceptional written and interpersonal skills for clear, concise, and accurate report writing.
• Ability to work effectively across a large organisation to achieve goals.
• Willingness to work in various teams and travel if needed.

Recruitment process and eligibility

• An Online application form
• Online tests
• An in-person interview and presentation

Please note that you must be available to attend an in-person recruitment stage during the period 17th November – 19th December.

Equal opportunity

We are an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse environment. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or age. If you require any reasonable adjustments throughout your recruitment journey, please let us know. If you are offered a job with us, a number of pre-employment checks need to be carried out before your appointment can be confirmed. Any offer of employment with United Utilities will be subject to a satisfactory checking report from Disclosure and Barring Service/Disclosure Scotland.

Application deadline and eligibility

Application deadline: 13th October 2025 – please apply early as deadlines are subject to change

Based on current immigration guidelines this role is not eligible for visa sponsorship

Salary, benefits and progression

Competitive Salary and Benefits: We offer a competitive starting salary of £31,250 which is reviewed each year and will increase annually throughout your graduate scheme, 26 days of annual leave (increasing to 30 days after four years), plus bank holidays. Our benefits package includes private healthcare, discounted gym membership, flexible holidays, and an award-winning pension scheme.

Career Progression Opportunities: Our graduate scheme offers clear pathways for advancement, structured programmes, and mentorship to help you develop into an outstanding leader. You\’ll receive a tailored development programme, with opportunities for placements in other areas of the business.

Personal and Professional Development: You\’ll have the chance to work within a highly motivated team, gaining a wealth of experience and creating a fantastic professional network. From specialist training to mentoring and coaching to internal support networks for LGBTQ+, Gender Equality and Neurodiversity, we\’ll support you every step of the way. There is also potential for sponsorship for a master\’s or other postgraduate qualifications.

Work-Life Balance: We understand the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Our flexible working policies and supportive work environment ensure you can achieve this balance while pursuing your career goals.

Our Reputation and Culture: United Utilities is proud to be one of the UK\’s top inclusive employers. We are a responsible business that cares about delivering great customer service, protecting the environment, and investing in the region to support future growth.