Overview

Be among the first 25 applicants. At Jacobs, we challenge today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world’s most critical problems. Join the Jacobs Graduate Development Programme (GDP) to develop your career through blended learning, mentoring, progress reviews and networking while working on meaningful projects with industry leaders.

The GDP is a structured two-year programme designed to support your development at the start of your Jacobs career journey. It allows you to customise your learning journey to reflect your interests, career goals and technical skillset, creating a graduate experience unique to you. The experience is largely on-the-job, with learning gathered through your manager and mentor to maximise relevance and impact.

The programme aims to launch your career, equipping you with tools, experiences and support to deliver outcomes and solutions for complex challenges.

About The Opportunity

Our Water and Environment Business Unit focuses on River Engineering and Flood Risk Management solutions, including flood defence structures, weirs, gates, sluices, flood storage reservoirs, natural flood management, habitat creation, hydrometric gauging facilities and fish passes. The Water Catchment Management team comprises over 400 staff across the UK and Europe, with reach into the Middle East, Australasia and America. The team works across sectors to deliver sustainable environmental solutions.

We are looking for Graduate Scientists to join our Water Science team. The successful applicants will support projects for clients in major public and private sector organisations and will join a respected company with excellent career prospects including international opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Planning and carrying out fieldwork, including River Condition Surveys as part of Biodiversity Net Gain assessments.
• Assisting with Fluvial Audits and Stream Reconnaissance Surveys
• Assisting with river restoration projects
• Undertaking Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) and Water Framework Directive (WFD) assessments to support infrastructure and flood risk management projects.
• Writing concise and logical reports including analysis of hydrological datasets and geomorphological assessments.
• Using and analysing various numerical datasets
• Working in GIS to analyse spatial data
• Identifying potential health and safety hazards on projects and demonstrating a commitment to safety

The start date for this role is September 2026.

What you’ll need

• Be working towards a Masters level qualification in Environmental Science, Water Science or similar
• A flexible self-starter who is keen to drive your career forward
• Adaptable to change, with a thirst for learning new things
• You must have the permanent right to work in the UK

Selection Process

• Step 1 Apply Online
• Step 2 Solo Video Assessment
• Step 3 Interview

Apply before 19 October 2025 for your application to be considered in the first assessment window. You can still apply after this date if the role remains open to applications. However, you do so with the knowledge that we may not proceed with your application if the role is filled in the first assessment window.

What Else We Provide

• A flexible workstyle, embracing a hybrid working pattern and supporting those who need to balance work/life commitments
• Free single medical cover and digital GP service
• Reimbursement towards relevant professional development and memberships
• A focus on safety, health, and wellbeing, with a culture of caring and a positive mental health champion network
• Opportunities to give back to our communities through our Collectively programme with matched funding, paid volunteering time and charitable donations

Joining Jacobs connects you locally and globally. We value safety, integrity, inclusion and belonging, placing people at the heart of our business and supporting one another through a culture of caring.