Graduate Project Controls

Who are United Utilities?

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?

The Role

Join United Utilities’ 3-year Graduate Programme as a Project Controls Graduate in PMO. Dive into the world of the Programme Management Office management where you’ll play a crucial role in helping the business manage and control the delivery of our Capital Programme.

As a Project Controls Graduate, you’ll be at the heart of our operations, using cutting-edge techniques to keep projects on track and within budget. You’ll work alongside experienced professionals, learning how to plan, schedule, and identify key risks and opportunities that ensure our projects succeed. Start living your future today!

What will I be doing?

• Develop and apply planning skills to create and maintain robust project schedules, ensuring timely and successful delivery.
• Support cost management on a wide range of projects, providing analysis and insights to drive successful outcomes.
• Contribute to a consistent and effective approach to risk and opportunity management across the project lifecycle.
• Build confidence and capability in using digital systems, with opportunities to develop skills in data analytics.
• Collaborate closely with project managers and gain exposure to a diverse portfolio of projects.
• Engage with cross-functional teams and stakeholders across the business to support project success.
• Take initiative and work independently while receiving mentorship from senior project controllers.
• Participate in impactful initiatives and activities that will help to shape the future of the organisation.

Insights from our current Project Controls Graduates

• Olivia: “I have greatly enjoyed my first year on the graduate scheme. I’ve had the opportunity to work across various projects and take an active role which has helped me grow professionally and personally. My confidence has grown massively from being responsible for projects to speaking to senior stakeholders. I’ve developed key skills and qualifications across project controls which I will continue to improve upon in the following years.”
• Hannah: “The United Utilities Project Controller Graduate scheme has given me the opportunity work on complex projects using new and exciting techniques and software's. The rotational placement structure of the scheme has allowed me to explore different aspects of Project Controls in detail and exposed me to ways of working in the wider company all while developing my network and foundation for my future.”

What do I need to be successful?

We require our graduates to have a minimum 2:1 degree in a relevant technical, scientific, data, or engineering field.

You will also need:

• Motivation and enthusiasm, with the potential to develop strong leadership and communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and a proactive mindset
• The drive to excel in a fast-paced environment and adapt to various roles
• Analytical and critical thinking skills, with a keen eye for detail and accuracy.
• Proficient in MS Excel and comfortable working with digital tools and systems.
• Willingness to travel and flexibility with working hours when needed.
• Full UK Driving Licence will be required when the scheme starts

Additional Information

Our recruitment process requires you to complete:

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

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

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: 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