Flood Scientist

About the role

We’re seeking an enthusiastic and capable flood scientist with expertise in flood-related modelling to help us understand climate impacts across multiple spatial scales. This is an exciting opportunity to apply cutting-edge science to real-world challenges. As a Flood Scientist, you’ll be part of a multidisciplinary team working at the intersection of climate science, geospatial analysis, and advanced modelling. Together, we’re building global-scale models to assess the physical risks of climate change.

We combine observational data and model outputs at both local and global scales to project physical impacts of climate change, such as floods, subsidence, storms, droughts, and wildfires.

You’ll help lead the development of new flood modelling techniques and contribute to insights into climate impacts, as part of a collaborative interdisciplinary team.

Responsabilities

The impact you'll own

• Design and advance next-generation flood hazard models by integrating remote sensing, hydrological, and climate data to simulate riverine and surface water flooding from regional to global scales.
• Work cross-functionally to deliver impactful flood risk products, collaborating with scientists, geospatial specialists, engineers, and loss modellers to translate scientific outputs into commercial-ready solutions.
• Lead robust model evaluation and verification, employing statistical benchmarking and validation, along with thorough documentation to ensure scientific integrity for clients.
• Disseminate scientific insights and methods to engage with stakeholders and customers, and represent the team at international conferences and industry events.

Essential Skills

• PhD or equivalent industry experience in hydrology, hydraulic modelling, flood risk, environmental modelling, statistical analysis, or remote sensing.
• Experience leveraging scientific computing techniques with Python, ideally in a cloud environment.
• Skilled in sourcing, processing, and working with large datasets for model development and validation, including the use of remote sensing and data science techniques to support model inputs and assess performance.
• Ability to explain complex concepts to non-technical audiences.
• Proactive and collaborative approach, with strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively across an interdisciplinary team.

Desirable Skills

Experience in any of the following areas will help you stand out, but is not required. If you’re passionate about the role, we strongly encourage you to apply!

• Experience with global hydrological models or national-to-global scale flood risk modelling (river, surface, or compound flooding).
• Experience applying machine learning techniques to flood-related challenges, such as mapping flood defences or estimating streamflow in ungauged catchments.
• Experience working in an industry-based science role or agile environment with cross-functional collaboration.
• Using statistical methods for model calibration, validation, or flood frequency analysis.
• Quantifying uncertainty or running ensemble/sensitivity analyses in flood simulation workflows.
• Working with satellite imagery (e.g., Sentinel, MODIS, Landsat) for flood extent mapping or model validation.
• Familiarity with hydrodynamic models such as LISFLOOD-FP, HEC-RAS, TUFLOW, or Delft3D.

Qualifications

• A PhD, or equivalent industry experience, in hydrology, hydraulic modelling, flood risk, statistical analysis, environmental science, or remote sensing.

Benefits 

🌍 Contribute to a business making purposeful impact related to climate change 

💡 Monthly training & conference budget to help you upskill and develop your career (£1,000 per year) 

📈 6 monthly appraisals and 12 monthly pay reviews 

💰 Pension contribution scheme 

🏡 Flexible hours and hybrid working (3 days/week in office; core hours 10am-4pm) 

🏥 Mental Health and Wellbeing support via Oliva  

🏖 25 days holiday, plus Bank Holidays, annual 3-day Christmas-closure, and half day on your birthday (36.5 days total!) 

🏏 Optional quarterly socials, dinners, and fun nights out 

🥐 A fully stocked supply of snacks, fruit, and refreshments for the days when you are in the office 

🚴 Cycle to work scheme via gogeta

🍼 Enhanced maternity and paternity

🐶 Pawternity leave

🐕 Dog friendly office (official residence of Alfie, Chief Mischief Officer) 

Equal Opportunities 

Climate X are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds.