Graduate Engineer - Water

About the company

Nicholas O'Dwyer is a long-established, sustainability-led consultancy with more than 90 years of experience. The organisation focuses on delivering dependable, modern solutions backed by advanced technology and technical expertise, with the aim of achieving successful projects and a positive employee experience.

The business works across water, wastewater, transport, civil and structural engineering, flood protection, and energy projects, including renewables. Headquartered in Ireland, it also has operations across the UK, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. As part of the RSK Group, which includes more than 200 companies and over 17,000 employees, it offers access to a wider international network while keeping its own brand and independence.

About the role

This opportunity is for a graduate engineer to join the Water Engineering Team and begin a career in civil or environmental engineering. The role offers exposure to a wide variety of water infrastructure work and allows the successful candidate to build practical experience while developing technical and project delivery capabilities.

Work will cover multiple stages of water engineering projects, from early feasibility work through to detailed design and construction support. The position includes structured training and mentoring during the first year, alongside office-based learning, site visits, and practical involvement in site activities.

Responsibilities

• Develop a solid understanding of water engineering concepts, standards, regulations, and good practice.
• Prepare feasibility, route, and site selection reports.
• Support the preparation of concept and detailed design outputs, including drawings, calculations, and specifications.
• Carry out clean water network modelling using a range of design and analysis software.
• Help produce technical specifications and contract documentation for works and investigations.
• Assist with documents needed for statutory approvals, including planning permissions and wayleaves.
• Work with senior engineers and project managers during construction-stage contract administration.
• Contribute to the development of project plans covering budgets, timelines, and resource allocation.
• Support delivery of projects to agreed budget, schedule, and compliance requirements.
• Learn to recognise and manage project risks with guidance from senior colleagues.
• Communicate effectively with team members, clients, and other stakeholders.
• Follow health and safety legislation as well as quality management procedures in all work.
• Take on additional duties as needed based on business and role requirements.
• Travel to sites across Ireland and the UK when required.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, environmental engineering, or a closely related field, or the candidate should be in the process of completing one.
• A genuine interest in water engineering and a basic grasp of its principles and practices.
• Clear verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to work well in a team and develop strong working relationships.
• A careful, organised, and analytical approach to problem-solving, along with curiosity and a willingness to learn through mentoring.
• Self-driven and reliable, with the confidence to work independently on assigned tasks while contributing positively to the team.
• Exposure to design tools such as AutoCAD, Civil 3D, ArcGIS, QGIS, or similar software would be an advantage, though it is not essential.
• Experience with hydraulic modelling tools such as Epanet, Synergi, MicroDrainage, HEC-RAS, or similar software would be beneficial but is not required.
• A valid Irish driving licence would be helpful for travel to sites and project locations.

About the employer

Nicholas O'Dwyer delivers services in engineering design, project management, environment and planning, construction supervision, and technical and contract advisory support. The company serves public and private sector clients in Ireland and internationally, helping address infrastructure challenges while supporting a sustainable future.

As part of the RSK Group, the business is connected to a broader multidisciplinary organisation committed to growth, diversification, and employee development. The group emphasises a people-first culture, innovation, collaboration, and support for long-term career growth.

Working culture and values

The organisation is committed to inclusion and welcomes people from all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. It values diversity as a strength and aims to provide a supportive environment where people can grow, contribute, and build rewarding careers.