
Every day, we deliver one of life's most essential services to millions of people across the North West. From providing safe, high-quality drinking water to protecting the environment and supporting thriving communities, the work we do matters. We're investing £16.5 billion over the next five years in one of the biggest transformation programmes in our history. It's an exciting time to join us as we improve our services, enhance environmental performance, embrace innovation and create a more sustainable future for generations to come.
There's more to us than just great water. We are where purpose flows.
What you can expect being a graduate in the Regulation and Compliance team
As a Graduate Economist, you'll join a structured development programme within our Regulation and Compliance team, gaining hands-on experience applying economic analysis to real business challenges that shape the delivery of water and wastewater services for millions of customers. You'll work on a diverse range of activities, including economic and statistical analysis, regulatory submissions, financial modelling, pricing and tariff analysis, environmental compliance, and supporting major infrastructure projects. Working closely with teams across the business, you'll help inform strategic decision-making while developing a strong understanding of the regulatory environment. Alongside opportunities to broaden your experience through placements across the business and potential support for postgraduate study, you'll be supported by mentors, managers and graduate buddies to help you achieve your career goals and reach your full potential.
What you’ll be getting stuck into day to day:
What you’ll bring to the team:
Our team has a strong reputation for excellence and as a graduate, you be will an important part of that success. The role will suit applicants with a quantitative background or with knowledge of economics, but we encourage all those interested in the position to apply – this role will draw upon a diverse range of skillsets.
We require graduates to have a minimum 2:1 degree classification in any discipline.
You will need to be:
Why join United Utilities as a Graduate?
By joining us on our 3-year graduate scheme, you'll not only get first-class training and support, but we'll also provide you with an in-depth understanding of your business area, ultimately giving you the confidence, skills and knowledge required to become one of our future operational, technical or people leaders, driving meaningful change.
What's in it for you?
We know that delivering a great service starts with supporting you, our people. That's why we offer a range of benefits designed to help you thrive both at work and outside of it.
Want to learn more about life at United Utilities and explore our full benefits package? Take a look at our Flexa profile here: United Utilities | Verified Employers | Flexa Careers
Our commitment to opportunity for all
We're committed to creating a workplace where you feel you can belong and can succeed. Our colleague networks play an important role in this, these are;
We recommend that you are open and honest with us throughout the process and make us aware of any reasonable adjustments you may require. Rest assured, we don't use AI to screen your application at any stage of the process. A real person will review your application.
To ensure a fair recruitment process, we ask that you apply for only one Graduate role per recruitment year. Take a look at all our opportunities and apply for the one that interests you most.
Key dates to consider
Our recruitment process requires you to complete:
Please note that you must be available to attend an in-person recruitment stage during the period 17th November – 11th December
Application deadline: 21st October 2026 – please apply early as deadlines are subject to change
Based on current immigration guidelines this role is not eligible for visa sponsorship
From £32,250 per annum
North West, UK
From £32,250 per annum
Warrington, UK

3 office days / week – 3 days in the office, 2 days from home

A little flex time
From £32,250 per annum
Remote (UK)
From £32,250 per annum
North West, UK
Company employees:
Gender diversity (m:f):
Hiring in countries
United Kingdom
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