At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage and improve highway drainage systems to ensure safety and efficiency.
- Company: Join Herefordshire Council in transforming local services for the community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and generous annual leave.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with clear career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in highway drainage design and problem-solving skills required.
The predicted salary is between 46142 - 50269 £ per year.
Contract: Permanent
Location: Unit 3, Thorn Business Park, Hereford
Hours: 37
Salary band: HC10 £46,142 – £50,269 per annum
Closing date: 8 February 2026
Interview date: 19 February 2026
The Role
We are transforming how highways and public realm services are delivered across Herefordshire, bringing them back under direct Council control for the first time in years. From June 2026, we will work in a new way that gives us greater flexibility, more local accountability, and a sharper focus on quality and value for money. By joining us now, you will be part of a team shaping the future of essential services that residents rely on every day.
Responsibilities
- Manage the countywide highway drainage system.
- Investigate reported issues in a timely manner and raise jobs through partner contractors or liaison with water companies via annual programmes.
- Develop and deliver a countywide gully and drainage asset cleansing programme.
- Collaborate closely with the Flood Risk Management team to mitigate the likelihood and impact of flooding from the highway network on property.
- Work with the Road Safety and Traffic Management team to develop plans to keep the network moving during extreme weather.
Qualifications
- Knowledge and experience of investigating and resolving highway drainage system problems.
- Experience of highway drainage design and designing/implementing SuDS.
- Comprehensive knowledge of key highway legislation (Highways Act 1980) and flood risk management legislation (Flood and Water Management Act 2010, Flood Risk Regulations 2009, Land Drainage Act 1991, etc).
- Experience working positively with key stakeholders and communities.
- Experience reviewing highway drainage plans during the development management process, and willingness to be involved in developing drainage schemes and progressing new projects.
Benefits
- Salary range: HC10 £46,142 – £50,269 per annum.
- Enrolment in the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).
- Career progression: clear pathways to progress.
- Annual leave: 31 days pro rata plus bank holidays; additional 10 days may be purchased per annum.
- Flexible working options including job‑sharing, part‑time hours, and agile working.
- Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 access to support and counselling.
- Payment of professional membership fees (based on role requirements).
- Access to retail, leisure, holiday and health benefits, including savings, cash back and discounts.
Equal Opportunity and Commitments
Herefordshire Council is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. Candidates who meet essential criteria will be interviewed if they are from:
- People with a disability (part of 'Disability Confident' scheme).
- Armed Forces Veterans or Reservists (supporting the Armed Forces Covenant).
- Herefordshire care leavers (supporting young people leaving care).
We take our commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults seriously and expect all staff, visitors, and volunteers to share this commitment.
Principal Highway Drainage Engineer employer: WMJobs
Herefordshire Council is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to shape the future of highway drainage services in a supportive and inclusive environment. With a strong focus on employee growth, flexible working options, and a comprehensive benefits package including generous annual leave and professional development support, you will be part of a dedicated team committed to enhancing local infrastructure and community well-being.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Highway Drainage Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend local events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Understand their approach to highway drainage and flood risk management. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions related to your field. Think about how your experience aligns with the responsibilities listed in the job description. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining us in transforming highway services in Herefordshire.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Highway Drainage Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Principal Highway Drainage Engineer role. Highlight your experience with highway drainage systems and any relevant legislation you've worked with. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how you can contribute to transforming highway services in Herefordshire. Keep it engaging and personal – we love a good story!
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, be sure to mention specific examples of how you've investigated and resolved drainage issues in the past. We’re keen to see your problem-solving skills in action, so don’t hold back!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly, and you’ll find all the details you need right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at WMJobs
✨Know Your Legislation
Make sure you brush up on key highway legislation like the Highways Act 1980 and the Flood and Water Management Act 2010. Being able to discuss these laws confidently will show that you understand the framework within which you'll be working.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past work where you've successfully managed highway drainage systems or collaborated with stakeholders. This will help demonstrate your hands-on experience and problem-solving skills, which are crucial for this role.
✨Understand the Role's Impact
Research how the role of Principal Highway Drainage Engineer fits into the broader goals of Herefordshire Council. Be ready to discuss how your work can contribute to transforming public services and improving local accountability.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the countywide gully and drainage asset cleansing programme or how the team collaborates with the Flood Risk Management team. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
