Associate / Technical Director - Flood Forecast Modelling in Leeds

We are expanding our UK‑based flood forecasting capacity as part of our Sustainable Water Management team. The role is for experienced flood forecast modellers and hydrologists to work alongside hydraulic modellers and hydrologists delivering real‑time flood modelling projects.

Responsibilities

• Providing technical delivery (and where appropriate leadership) for flood forecast modelling and hydrology studies, including developing Flood Modeller based flood forecast models (routing and hydrodynamic), preparing hydrology boundaries (PDM), performance testing, undertaking rating reviews and updates.
• Undertaking Quality Assurance and independent technical reviews of existing flood forecasting reports and products.
• Undertaking and supervising the production of high‑quality client‑ and public‑facing deliverables, demonstrated through excellence in communication and the ability to present the visualisation and interpretation of complex data.
• Working with the wider fluvial and pluvial modelling leadership team to further develop flood forecasting service offering.
• Mentoring and providing technical support for less experienced flood forecasting modellers.
• Supporting (and where appropriate leading) high‑quality bid proposals and developing innovative solutions to meet our clients' needs.
• Providing project, commercial and financial management for projects.
• Undertaking client and stakeholder liaison.
• Displaying and promoting a “safety first” attitude in line with WSP's health and safety policy and procedures.

Although primarily a UK‑based role, you will also be expected to work collaboratively with teams across WSP’s global business.

Team

Our national fluvial and pluvial modelling team delivers flood modelling (real‑time and non‑real‑time) to support a broad portfolio of work including flood warning improvements, FCERM studies and strategic infrastructure projects. As an experienced flood forecast modeller, you will be part of the growing UK‑based real‑time modelling capacity and support the development of more junior colleagues. You will be responsible for technical oversight of projects, play a part in promoting and delivering high‑quality flood forecasting services, and support the delivery of innovation in our sector. You will also play a part in the success of WSP through contributing to tenders and strengthening relationships with clients.

Qualifications

• Excellent understanding of UK flood forecasting techniques, rating review, Flood Modeller, PDM and performance testing, and a proven track record of undertaking real‑time model development and testing.
• Excellent understanding and experience of carrying out reviews and calculations to satisfy UK statutory bodies (EA, SEPA, NRW or DfI).
• Strong commercial awareness, with experience of identifying and developing business opportunities as well as preparing winning proposals.
• A sound understanding of client needs, their opportunities and challenges, with a track record of leading and winning work.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the potential to engage and influence at all levels.
• Excellent report‑writing, technical review, numerical and analytical skills, with an eye for detail and enjoyment of solving challenging flood forecasting problems.
• Chartership with a relevant professional body (or commitment to work towards within an agreed period).
• Experience and flexibility to review non‑real‑time modelling is an advantage.

Benefits

• Work‑life balance: Our hybrid working policy offers the flexibility to work from home two days a week, while also providing opportunities to collaborate in our modern offices across the UK.
• Inclusivity & Belonging: We welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and experiences. We enable rewarding careers by encouraging people to bring their whole and authentic selves to work so that our work represents the fullest spectrum of society. We celebrate integrity and treat people with respect, supporting each other and embracing a culture of inclusion and belonging at WSP. We have employee resource groups to promote our culture of inclusivity.
• Health & Wellbeing: We are committed to supporting our people, giving you the tools to make improvements to your health and wellbeing through our Thrive programme. Our Virtual GP service gives you access to an NHS or Irish Medical Council GP. We also provide reasonable workplace adjustments and additional benefits such as Gymflex and a menopause support package.
• Flex your time: To enhance work‑life balance, WSP offers the “WSP My Hour,” allowing you to take one hour each day for personal activities, with the flexibility to make up the time earlier or later that day. We also provide part‑time and flexible working arrangements, the option to purchase additional leave, and the ability to use your bank holiday entitlement.
• Your development: We foster a supportive environment that invests in your growth, whether through training, mentoring, or Chartership.

EEO Statement

Here at WSP we positively encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy or maternity/paternity. As a Disability Confident leader, we will interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria, please let us know if you require any workplace adjustments in support of your application.