Herefordshire Council
Job Title: Principal Highway Drainage Engineer
Contract: Permanent
Location: Unit 3, Thorn Business Park, Hereford
Hours: 37
Salary band: HC10 £46,142 – £50,269 per annum
Closing date: 24 July 2026
The Role
This is an exciting time to join the Highways and Public Realm team at Herefordshire Council. We’re transforming how highways and public realm services are delivered across Herefordshire, bringing them back under direct Council control for the first time in years. From June this year (2026), we’ll be working in a new way that gives us greater flexibility, more local accountability, and a sharper focus on quality and value for money. By joining us now, you’ll be part of a team shaping the future of essential services that residents rely on daily.
What will you be doing?
In this role you will be responsible for managing the highway drainage system across Herefordshire, ensuring that reported issues are investigated and resolved promptly. You will raise jobs through partner contractors and coordinate with water companies through our annual programmes. You will develop and deliver a county‑wide gully and drainage asset cleansing programme, work closely with the Flood Risk Management team to mitigate flooding risks, and collaborate with Road Safety and Traffic Management to keep the network moving during extreme weather.
About You
- Knowledge and experience of investigating and resolving highway drainage system problems.
- Experience of highway drainage design and designing and implementing SuDS.
- Comprehensive knowledge of key highway legislation including the Highways Act 1980, Flood and Water Management Act 2010, Flood Risk Regulations 2009, Land Drainage Act 1991, and related ordinances.
- Experience working positively with key stakeholders and communities.
- Experience in reviewing highway drainage plans as part of the development management process and willingness to develop new projects.
We Offer
- Competitive salary range of HC10 £46,142 – £50,269 per annum.
- Enrolment in the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).
- Career progression with clear pathways.
- Annual leave of 31 days per annum (pro rata) plus bank holidays, with option to purchase an additional 10 days.
- Flexible working, including potential for job‑sharing, part-time hours, and agile working.
- Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 support and counselling.
- Payment of professional membership fees (based on role requirements).
- Access to a range of retail, leisure, holiday and health benefits, including savings, cash back and discounts.
Reasonable Adjustments
Our recruitment process runs in partnership with Hoople Resourcing. If you require reasonable adjustments or alternative methods for the online application process, please contact the resourcing team by email.
Commitments, Covenants and Statutory Obligations
- We will interview candidates meeting essential criteria, including those who indicate a disability (part of our “Disability Confident” scheme).
- We will interview candidates indicating they are an Armed Forces veteran or reservist (supporting the Armed Forces Covenant).
- We will interview candidates indicating they are a Herefordshire care leaver (supporting young people leaving care).
We take our commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults seriously and expect all of our staff, visitors and volunteers to share in this commitment.
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