Network Modelling Intern

About us

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.

The role

As an intern joining our network modelling team, you will gain a broad understanding of how the network operates and how different parts of the business work together to deliver value. You will receive support and guidance from experienced engineers and modellers as you develop your skills in network modelling and the use of industry standard software such as Synergi, InfoWorks WS Pro, EPAnet and ArcGIS. From an early stage, you will contribute to a variety of projects that support our operational teams, taking ownership of meaningful pieces of work and making a real impact. You will also be encouraged to explore new ideas, challenge existing approaches and help drive continuous improvements in our modelling capabilities. Throughout the programme, you will work alongside knowledgeable professionals who are committed to supporting your technical and professional development, while building expertise in hydraulic modelling, data analytics and digital technologies that will form the foundation of your future career.

Key accountabilities

• Use industry standard software, to analyse network performance and help solve operational and engineering challenges.
• Collaborate with operational teams to investigate network issues, identify root causes and support the development of effective solutions.
• Apply engineering and analytical skills to help optimise network performance and ensure the delivery of high-quality water services to customers.
• Analyse network and operational data to identify trends, uncover anomalies and provide evidence-based recommendations.
• Produce clear and concise technical reports, presenting modelling results and insights to stakeholders across the business.
• Develop, maintain, validate and run hydraulic network models to assess different operating scenarios and support key business projects.
• Work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including engineers, operations and asset management colleagues, to address complex network challenges.
• Contribute to innovative projects and continuous improvement initiatives that enhance modelling capabilities and support informed business decision-making.

Skills & experience

• A genuine passion for the water industry and a desire to make a positive impact for customers and the environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to apply engineering principles to real-world challenges.
• Curiosity and initiative to research new ideas, technologies and approaches that enhance our modelling capabilities.
• A degree in Engineering, Geography, Environmental Science, Mathematics, Data Science, or a related discipline.
• The ability to interpret data, draw meaningful insights and support evidence-based decision-making.
• Strong communication skills, with the confidence to explain technical information clearly to a range of audiences.
• A collaborative mindset and the ability to work effectively with colleagues across different teams and disciplines.
• Enthusiasm to learn, develop professionally and contribute to continuous improvement within the business.

Other

By joining us on our internship programme, 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 so you can develop the skills you need to progress your career, while making a real contribution to the communities we serve.

You might enter our organisation as an intern, but one thing's for sure: if you perform well, you may well be leaving with a graduate offer before you've even returned to university.

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.

Salary of at least £25,950 per annum (pro rata)

26 days annual leave plus bank holidays (pro rata)

Want to learn more about life at United Utilities? Take a look at our Flexa profile:

United Utilities | Verified Employers | Flexa Careers

Compliance

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;

GeneQ – supporting gender equality, parents and carers

Multi-Cultural & Faith

LGBTQ+

Armed Forces

Ability – supporting colleagues with disabilities and long-term health conditions

We recommend that you are open and honest with us throughout the process and make us aware of any reasonable adjustments you may require.

To ensure a fair recruitment process, we ask that you apply for only one internship role per recruitment year. Take a look at all our opportunities and apply for the one that interests you most.

Field 7

Our recruitment process requires you to complete:

• An Online application form

• Online tests
• An in-person interview and presentation

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

Due to the length of the programme being 12 months maximum you will be engaged on a fixed term contract.