Aecom
Trusted global infrastructure consulting firm delivering engineering, design, construction management services.
Principal/Associate Geomorphologist
Lead river restoration projects, overseeing geomorphology, design and team delivery
Job Highlights
About the Role
Recent projects include detailed design and construction supervision for the re‑meandering of the River Breamish and River Eye SSSIs, modelling for the River Cocker, nature‑recovery and wetland restoration on Northumberland estates, landscape‑scale river restoration in the North York Moor National Park, weir removals and fish passes across the UK, river‑basin restoration planning for the Environment Agency, and geomorphological management plans for New Zealand. All Water Environment team members engage directly with clients and handle commercial aspects of projects, while health, safety and environmental considerations remain central. As a senior geomorphologist you will coach junior staff, maintain strong client relationships and ensure delivery excellence. • Lead planning, modelling, and design of sustainable geomorphology and river restoration schemes. • Coordinate multidisciplinary teams and manage contractor supervision under CDM regulations. • Deliver high‑quality river restoration projects, including re‑meandering, weir removals, and flood‑management solutions. • Provide technical coaching to peers and junior staff while maintaining strong client relationships. • Oversee project budgets, schedules, and commercial aspects to ensure successful delivery. • Apply hydraulic and sediment‑transport modelling to inform design decisions. • Conduct geomorphological assessments, landslide and flood‑hazard analyses.
Key Responsibilities
- ▸hydraulic modelling
- ▸sediment modelling
- ▸geomorphology design
- ▸project delivery
- ▸team coordination
- ▸client management
What You Bring
We are seeking an experienced Geomorphologist and River Restoration Project Lead for our UK Water team. The role involves leading the planning, modelling and design of sustainable geomorphology and river restoration schemes, working with regulators, water companies, trusts and developers both nationally and internationally. We require a degree in geography, physical sciences or engineering, proven river‑restoration experience and strong project‑management skills. Excellent communication, engagement and leadership abilities are essential for working with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders. • Hold a relevant degree (geography, physical sciences, engineering) with proven river restoration experience. • Demonstrate excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder‑engagement skills.
Requirements
- ▸degree
- ▸geomorphology
- ▸river restoration
- ▸project management
- ▸leadership
- ▸communication
Benefits
AECOM offers a flexible hybrid working model, extensive career development opportunities through AECOM University and technical practice networks, and a suite of core and personalised benefits such as volunteering days and well‑being programs. Employees benefit from competitive compensation, access to industry‑leading technology, and a culture that encourages integrity, entrepreneurship and a pioneering mindset. The role is based in Edinburgh, operates under a hybrid work model, and supports a safe, respectful workplace where everyone can bring their whole selves. As a Disability Confident Employer, AECOM will offer an interview to candidates with disabilities or long‑term conditions who meet the essential criteria, and provides a dedicated email address for requests under the Disability Confident Interview Scheme. • Enjoy flexible hybrid working, career development programs, AECOM University, technical practice networks, and volunteering days.
Work Environment
Hybrid