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
Our graduate geotechnical engineers are required to develop their knowledge of site investigations, interpretation of detailed geotechnical data, and the geotechnical design of earthworks, foundations, retaining systems and ground improvement techniques for water, wastewater and sludge treatment processes.
You will work individually and as a member of a team, with a working knowledge of managing interfaces with other disciplines e.g. process, civil, hydraulics, mechanical, electrical, construction, etc. is required. These are key requirements in order to deliver robust, reliable, repeatable, commissionable, operable, maintainable, safe and cost effective project designs.
You will develop your experience and expertise in data gathering and analysis required for the engineering design. You will also develop your knowledge of health and safety techniques and the regulatory environment through a balance of office and site work both of which are important in meeting our objectives.
You will be expected to communicate concepts and ideas, regarding the application of particular design, to both technical and non-technical audiences.
Whilst on the scheme, you will have the opportunity to take part in placements within the wider business and be supported with your professional development towards an engineering council approved professional qualification.
What do I need to be successful?
We require our geotechnical engineer graduates to be master degree level qualified in either:
- MEng civil engineering including substantial geotechnical engineering content
- BSc engineering, geology/geotechnical, engineering/civil, engineering/geology combined with an MSc in geotechnical, engineering/engineering, geology/soil mechanics or foundation engineering
You will also need:
- A technical competence with good planning, organisational and problem solving skills
- To be great at interpersonal, communication and influencing skills
- Good team working skills, possessing ambition and drive
- Desire to pursue personal development and build a career in the ground engineering sector
- A full UK Driving Licence is needed at the start of the scheme
Desirable attributes (although not essential as we provide a comprehensive graduate training programme):
- Experience in writing desk studies and carrying out practical field work
- Experience in geotechnical software (for example GeoStudio, Plaxis, Oasys)
Additional Information
Additional Information
Our recruitment process requires you to complete:
- 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
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
Why choose United Utilities for your graduate journey?
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. Up to £500 reimbursed towards driving lessons and test which can be backdated*. Our benefits package includes private healthcare, discounted gym membership, flexible holidays, and an award-winning pension scheme.
- subject to time restriction and providing valid receipt
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.
