Principal Hydrologist – Lead Hydrology Team

About the role

We are seeking a Principal Hydrologist to lead our hydrology team in Sheffield. This senior position will shape technical direction, manage client relationships and deliver a diverse portfolio of flood risk, drainage and water‑management projects across the UK.

Key responsibilities

• Lead delivery of Flood Risk Assessments, drainage strategies, hydrological assessments and technical reports.
• Manage multiple complex projects from proposal to completion, ensuring quality and compliance.
• Provide technical leadership and quality assurance for all hydrology and flood‑risk work.
• Mentor and develop Hydrologists, Consultants and Senior Consultants.
• Allocate resources, set priorities and oversee team workload.
• Build and maintain relationships with clients, local authorities, the Environment Agency and other stakeholders.
• Prepare fee proposals, project programmes and support business development.
• Identify new business opportunities and contribute to company growth.
• Oversee SuDS strategies, hydraulic modelling and flood mitigation solutions.
• Review and approve technical reports to meet industry standards and legislation.
• Conduct site visits and ensure health & safety procedures and RAMS are followed.

Required profile

• Proven senior leadership experience in hydrology or flood‑risk consultancy.
• Track record of delivering high‑profile projects across multiple sectors.
• Strong client‑facing and business development skills.
• Ability to mentor and develop a multidisciplinary team.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management.

Required skills

• Flood Risk Assessment
• Drainage design
• Hydrological modelling
• SuDS design
• Hydraulic modelling
• Flood mitigation planning
• Health & safety compliance (RAMS)

What we offer

• Salary up to £60,000 per year, dependent on experience.
• Leadership of an established hydrology team.
• Varied portfolio of high‑profile projects across sectors.
• Professional development and support toward chartership.
• Supportive, collaborative and flexible working environment.