2026 Graduate Programme - Water - Asset Design

Overview

We are looking for graduates for our Asset Design team in leading Engineering and Professional Advisory services. You will work in a collaborative environment with a diverse range of clients and projects.

Locations and Services

• Process Engineering: London
• EICA (Electrical Engineering): Newcastle
• Civils: Newcastle, Glasgow, Bristol, London, Manchester, Leeds

Role and Team

Our Asset Design team provides comprehensive design and construction support across civil, structural, mechanical, electrical and process engineering. We work from feasibility and optioneering through to detailed design and commissioning, helping clients make risk-based decisions that champion no-build and low-build solutions.

We cover process, civil, mechanical, electrical instrumentation, and energy with multidisciplinary design teams.

Projects

Graduates will be involved in a diverse range of UK Water sector projects, supporting major clients such as:

• Thames Water/Costain
• Northumbrian Water
• Britannia Metals
• Severn Trent Water
• Southwest Water
• Galliford Try
• Yorkshire Water/Tillbury Douglas
• Irish Water
• Southern Water
• Keir
• Nutrient Removal schemes
• Clean Water Projects
• Strategic programmes reducing groundwater reliance

Asset Design Teams — Day-to-day Activities

• Process Engineering: design and modelling of water and wastewater treatment processes; data analysis and technical reports; preparation of design drawings and specifications with CAD/BIM; feasibility studies and whole-life cost assessments; client, regulator and stakeholder engagement; site visits and commissioning activities; collaboration with multi-disciplinary teams.
• EICA (Electrical): design engineering in electrical, instrumentation, control and automation; production of single line diagrams, load schedules, instrument schedules and MCC data sheets; pump calculations and isometrics; site visits; 3D CAD skills; cable sizing and hydraulic calculations.
• Civils: collaboration in multi-disciplinary design teams; use of digital software, 3D modelling with BIM, client and internal meetings; development towards Chartered status with guidance from an experienced Delegated Engineer.

Graduate Development Programme

Two-year programme focused on personal and professional development through blended learning, mentoring for professional registration, and on-the-job experience. We encourage chartered status with bodies such as IChemE, CIWEM, IMechE, and IET.

What We Will Be Looking For You To Demonstrate

• You will have graduated with at least a 2:2 (or master’s) in a relevant subject.
• Application process: complete the application form in full and, if shortlisted, complete an online skill enabler assessment.
• Start dates: April or September 2026.
• Passion for engineering and consulting in Water; interest in the environment and planning; creativity and problem-solving drive; willingness to share new ideas.
• Note: If you don’t meet all criteria, apply anyway; we may align your experience to other opportunities.

What’s In It For You

• Work-life balance with hybrid working (two days remote per week) and access to modern offices across the UK.
• Inclusivity and Belonging: diverse backgrounds welcome; employee resource groups and support for an inclusive culture.
• Health & Wellbeing: Thrive programme, Virtual GP, reasonable workplace adjustments, Gymflex, and menopause support.
• Flex your time: WSP My Hour for personal activities; part-time and flexible working, extra leave options, and bank holiday use.
• Your development: training, mentoring, and chartership support.

About Us

We are a leading engineering and professional services firm with a global team of 69,000+ professionals, committed to innovation, integrity and inclusion.

How to Apply

We review Early Career opportunities on a rolling basis. For more information, see the Graduate brochure or Graduate website. Please apply early to ensure full consideration.