Choosing a career in the water industry can be both exciting and challenging. To provide insight for those considering this path, we asked industry professionals from a wide range of roles and job titles for their advice. Below you will find some of their answers, offering a mix of encouragement, practical guidance, and long-term perspective.

1. Career Opportunities and Growth

"It is an ever-growing business, always developing better and more efficient ways of delivery, change has to happen for the future benefit of our rivers and other water course, also water for customers, it would be a great journey to be on, that offers lots of opportunities to grow a career."

"It's a really interesting career"

"It is an industry with a lot of future"

"Get into the industry, lots of opportunities to enrich an engineer's vision"

"It's a secure future as water will always be required."

"Very fulfilling for a motivated person."

2. Skills and Learning

"Before you pursue a career, find what you are best at and focus on that area."

"Get as many qualifications as possible"

"Water engineering encompasses a wide range of specialisations. The first step is to identify which specific area you wish to focus on, such as clean water distribution, water treatment, sludge management, sustainability, or environmental protection. Subsequently, you need to pursue relevant education or gain practical experience in the field. If you are new to water engineering, consider enrolling in early career programs or apprenticeship opportunities."

"Another key important note is to develop specific technical skills relating to water engineering, such as drafting technical specifications, digital skills, creativity, project management. Additionally, stay informed about industry trends and advancements by engaging with professionals through platforms like LinkedIn or participating in webinars. Networking with industry experts can provide valuable insights and foster connections that may benefit your career."

"I would suggest coming prepared and with soft skills, such MS office and basic of design"

"Build your problem-solving muscles, and stay open to learning new tech and digital tools, as data is becoming just as important as traditional engineering skills."

"You will develop a broad range of skills from concept design to the construction phase"

3. Work Ethic and Mindset

"Always think before you react, never cut corners where safety is concerned, and at the end of the day, go home safe."

"Be patient. Absorb everything."

"Its a relatively harsh working environment. However, if you work hard (accept the challenge), learn as many new skills as possible, and be prepared to take responsibility, you can climb the career ladder at your own pace with no ceiling limits."

"Be flexible, be open to travel and relocation. Don't pigeonhole yourself."

"Be prepared to take ownership and leadership seriously and not accept soft or poor standards of management."

"Get stuck in early and stay curious. Water engineering is about so much more than pipes and pumps. It touches climate resilience, public health, and environmental protection. If you’re considering it, explore different routes (like apprenticeships, graduate schemes, or work placements), and don’t be afraid to ask questions."

4. Collaboration and Networking

"Ensure you collaborate with all those involved in the project."

"Another important note is to stay informed about industry trends and advancements by engaging with professionals through platforms like LinkedIn or participating in webinars. Networking with industry experts can provide valuable insights and foster connections that may benefit your career."

"Get as much cross-industry experience as possible, don't specialise too soon."

"The opportunity to have a fulfilling career in something that matters to all, to develop personally and professionally, and with the prospect of being able to travel with work.. Always ask, listen, and engage, and be willing to continue learning."

5. Industry Perspective and Advice

'Please go for it. It’s a safe industry, and this allows career planning. Whilst on the outside, wastewater is perhaps not appealing, the engineering is just as valid and complex as any chemical treatment works."

"It's a rewarding job in all senses, you'll get to visit all areas of the country and you'll never be out of work (people will always need water!)"

"You have to learn everything about water & wastewater, including climate resilience."

"Definitely a good sector to enter for job security, and to specialise in."

"It can be challenging and relevant worldwide."

"Go through some case studies first to see if you interest lies in these kinds of projects."

"Don’t be fooled by the acronyms; everyone loves an acronym, but it doesn’t mean that they know more than you."

A career in the water industry is diverse, challenging, and rewarding. It requires dedication, curiosity, and a willingness to develop both technical and soft skills. For those ready to embrace the journey, the opportunities are broad, the work is meaningful, and the sector offers long-term stability and personal growth.

Our recruitment work focuses on finding permanent and contract, mid- to senior-level roles for water companies, SMEs, and tier providers, because this is where most organisations face the greatest challenge in finding the right talent. At the same time, we recognise that attracting younger generations and professionals from other industries can also be difficult for the sector. To support this, we sponsor the Emerging Talent Group run by Future Water Association, highlighting career opportunities and encouraging early-career interest. This allows us to contribute to the industry as a whole, helping young people and career changers explore the water sector and understand the pathways available to them.

If you’re looking to partner with us to find the right talent for your team, get in touch at water@murraymcintosh.com or visit our services page to learn more.

If you’re a candidate exploring opportunities in the water sector, check out our job board for the latest roles.