Senior Catchment Scientist / Hydrogeologist | Apply Now!

JOB DETAILS

📌 Job Title: Senior Catchment Scientist / Hydrogeologist
🏢 Company: Nicholas O’Dwyer
🏬 Industry: Environmental & Engineering Consulting
📍 Locations: Dublin (Ireland), Cork (Ireland), Johannesburg (South Africa), Durban (South Africa)
🕒 Employment Type: Full Time
📄 Contract Type: Fixed Term
💰 Salary: DOE (Dependent on Experience)

ABOUT THE COMPANY

Nicholas O’Dwyer is a sustainability-led engineering and environmental consultancy with over 90 years of experience delivering impactful infrastructure solutions worldwide. Headquartered in Ireland, the company operates across Europe, the UK, the Middle East, and Africa, delivering projects in water, wastewater, flood protection, transportation, energy, and civil engineering.

As part of the RSK Group—comprising over 200 companies and more than 17,000 employees globally—Nicholas O’Dwyer combines the agility of an independent consultancy with the strength of a global network. The organisation is committed to innovation, professional growth, and building a sustainable future.

ROLE PURPOSE

Nicholas O’Dwyer is seeking an experienced Senior Catchment Scientist / Hydrogeologist to support the delivery of a large-scale Drinking Water Safety Plan (DWSP) programme in line with new Drinking Water Regulations.

The role will focus on developing high-level Catchment Action Plans for approximately 700 Water Treatment Plant catchments, covering both surface water and groundwater sources. This is a senior, technically focused position requiring strong catchment science expertise, analytical capability, and experience working in regulated drinking water environments.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead the preparation of high-level Catchment Action Plans as part of the DWSP programme.

• Conduct desktop catchment characterisation using source risk assessments and water quality datasets.

• Analyse and interpret water quality monitoring data to identify risks, hazards, and trends.

• Identify, prioritise, and plan mitigation measures with defined responsibilities and delivery timelines.

• Engage with internal teams, regulators, asset owners, and catchment stakeholders to support implementation.

• Track and update mitigation actions within the DWSP system, ensuring data accuracy and consistency.

• Provide technical oversight and review of catchment and hydrogeological inputs prepared by project teams.

• Support programme management activities including progress tracking, coordination, and reporting.

• Prepare high-quality technical reports, summaries, and presentations for technical and non-technical audiences.

• Contribute to the continuous improvement of catchment risk management methodologies.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Degree in Catchment Science, Hydrogeology, Environmental Science, Earth Sciences, or a related discipline.

• Minimum 5 years’ relevant professional experience in catchment management, hydrogeology, or drinking water protection.

• Demonstrated experience in:

  • Catchment management planning

  • Drinking Water Safety Plans (DWSPs)

  • Water quality data analysis

  • Stakeholder engagement within regulated environments

  • Project or programme delivery

• Proven ability to provide technical leadership and undertake peer reviews.

• Strong analytical, reporting, and presentation skills.

DESIRABLE EXPERIENCE

• Catchment risk assessment methodologies.

• Groundwater and hydrogeological assessments.

• Experience using GIS for catchment analysis and reporting.

• Familiarity with Irish or EU drinking water regulatory frameworks.

BENEFITS

• Generous annual leave entitlement.

• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.

• Retirement savings plan.

• Mental health support and employee assistance programme.

• Cycle to Work scheme and tax saver options.

• Two professional memberships paid for annually.

• Staff mentorship programme.

• Active sports and social committee.

• On-site parking (location dependent).

COMPANY POLICY

Nicholas O’Dwyer and the RSK Group are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. Applications are welcomed from all qualified individuals regardless of background, identity, or experience. Employment decisions are based on merit, capability, and alignment with organisational values, ensuring equal opportunity for all employees.