Associate / Technical Director - Flood Forecast Modelling

Overview

Join WSP's Sustainable Water Management team in the UK as we expand our national flood forecasting capabilities. Become an integral part of delivering and developing real-time flood modelling projects alongside a team of hydraulic modellers and hydrologists. This role offers the chance to work on a variety of flood forecasting tasks, supporting clients across sectors such as energy, transport, government, and water.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead or contribute technically to flood forecast modelling and hydrology studies, utilising Flood Modeller software for routing and hydrodynamic models, preparing hydrological boundaries (PDM), performing model performance tests, and conducting rating reviews and updates.
• Perform quality assurance and independent technical assessments of flood forecasting reports and products.
• Develop and oversee the creation of polished, client- and public-facing deliverables, effectively communicating and visualising complex data.
• Collaborate with the broader fluvial and pluvial modelling leadership to enhance flood forecasting services.
• Provide mentorship and technical support to junior flood forecasting modellers.
• Lead or support the preparation of high-quality bid proposals and devise innovative client solutions.
• Manage project execution, including commercial and financial aspects.
• Engage with clients and stakeholders to maintain strong relationships.
• Uphold and promote a safety-first mindset consistent with WSP's health and safety policies.

Team and Sector Context

You will join a national team delivering both real-time and non-real-time flood modelling services, supporting flood warning improvements, FCERM studies, and strategic infrastructure projects. This role involves technical oversight and contributing to innovation, tendering, and client engagement, as part of a global network of flood and weather forecasting professionals.

Candidate Profile

• Solid expertise in UK flood forecasting methodologies, including Flood Modeller usage, PDM hydrology boundaries, rating reviews, performance testing, and familiarity with ongoing developments in real-time modelling.
• Experience performing reviews and calculations to meet requirements of UK statutory agencies such as the Environment Agency (EA), SEPA, NRW, or DfI.
• Commercially astute with a proven ability to identify business opportunities and develop successful proposals.
• Strong client focus, with experience leading projects and winning new work.
• Excellent interpersonal and influencing skills across all organizational levels.
• Meticulous report writing, technical review, and analytical capabilities with a passion for solving complex flood forecasting challenges.
• Chartered status with a relevant professional body, or commitment to achieve this within an agreed timeframe.
• Additional flexibility to review non-real-time modelling is a beneficial advantage.

Work Environment and Culture

WSP values work-life balance, offering hybrid working options including two home-based days per week, and modern office settings across the UK. The company fosters a culture of inclusion and belonging, supporting diversity and encouraging employees to bring their authentic selves to work. Health and wellbeing are supported through multiple initiatives including a virtual GP service, gym membership discounts, menopause support, and flexible time policies such as the "WSP My Hour".

About WSP

WSP is a global engineering and professional services firm, with over 11,000 staff in the UK and Ireland committed to delivering positive and sustainable community impacts. The company encourages professional development through training, mentoring, and support for professional chartership.

Equal Opportunity

WSP is an equal opportunity employer, welcoming applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, marital status, or parental status. As a Disability Confident leader, all disabled applicants meeting essential criteria will be interviewed, with workplace adjustments provided as necessary.