Principal Engineer or Scientist - Physical Modelling

At HR Wallingford, we design smart, resilient solutions across the natural and built environments to help everyone live and work more sustainably with water. By harnessing research, data insights and the power of our collective expertise, we help the world to better understand the changing influence and impact of water.

Globally our coastal and maritime infrastructure faces a number of challenges for it to remain resilient given the increase in climate induced hazards, and to efficiently service the needs of our energy transitions towards low carbon fuels and marine renewables.  At HR Wallingford our team of engineers and scientists apply extensive skills and knowledge to help face these hurdles.  We blend physical and numerical modelling with practical engineering and experience to provide unique validation and insights to the projects we are involved with, setting us ahead in the regeneration and development of resilient port, maritime, waterfront and coastal infrastructure.

A unique opportunity to join the physical modelling staff in our 12,000m² hydraulic modelling facility has arisen.  As a Principal Engineer or Scientist you will: support the growth of HR Wallingford’s physical modelling capabilities in the coastal and maritime sector in the Engineering Group and uphold the standard and quality of work that HR Wallingford is recognised worldwide for; and apply innovative techniques to support ongoing sustainability within the engineering group and across the company

Key qualifications and skills

• An engineering or science related degree with a strong numerical and analytical background.


• Preferably a post graduate qualification in coastal or maritime engineering, coastal science, or a related discipline.


• Ability to take the initiative, find solutions and proactively drive progress.


• Ability to support and work closely with other members of the Engineering Team to optimise the hydraulic design of structures and facilities.


• Experience in project management with the planning, management and delivery of technically challenging and complex projects on time and on budget.


• A background in the design or modelling of coastal or maritime structures, e.g., breakwaters and coastal protection structures, scour protection systems, or harbour structures..


• A knowledge of physical oceanography, metocean data, coastal processes, and data evaluation.


• Experience working in a coastal, marine or hydraulic physical modelling laboratory.

Professional membership of a relevant body (e.g. Institution of Civil Engineers, IMAREST, EurIng), ideally chartered or working towards chartered status.

Further information

• Salary: from £58,400 dependant on experience


• Download a full job description and person specification.


• Check out our exceptional benefits at hrwallingford.com/careers.


• We understand the importance of a healthy work-life balance and offer both hybrid working and flexi-time. We are also open to exploring other flexible working arrangements.

The closing date for applications is 1^st August 2025.

How to apply

If you are excited about this role but unsure whether you’re the right fit, we encourage you to apply. We’re also happy to answer any questions by emailing [email protected]

Interested? Please apply providing your CV with covering letter. 

Additional information

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HR Wallingford are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our workplace. We do not discriminate, and work to create an inclusive culture across our business.