At Lanes Group we talk a lot about the work our engineers do to keep the country’s drains in top condition, but we don’t tend to share what they get up to day-to-day. 

As one of the biggest employers of drainage engineers in the UK, we rely on the expertise of our team to diagnose and repair issues, provide ongoing maintenance support, and work on emergency drainage projects to resolve them quickly and efficiently. 

The role of a drainage engineer is varied. Below, we will outline some of the main responsibilities carried out by our team and highlight the specialist work they do: 

Preventing blockages 

A large part of a drainage engineer's role is to ensure that there are no issues within the sewage system that could cause problems in the future. 

This means our team carries out a range of tasks, including simple inspections to make sure that water drainage systems are working effectively, and performing surveys to ensure there are no hidden issues. 

They are also in charge of repairing cracked or deteriorating pipes to prevent major drainage problems. By catching this damage early, the team can prevent customers from having to endure the time and expense of pipe replacement. 

To do this, our drainage engineers install a cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) repair or liner, which is cost-effective and minimises disruption. CIPP is a ‘no dig’ technique that creates a new pipe inside the old or damaged one. 

Clearing drains 

When blockages do arise, drainage engineers are responsible for clearing them. There are several ways this can be done, including water jetting (high-speed streams of pressurised water used to dislodge solid material) and jet vacuuming (a suction-based method of removing debris). This process might require the establishment of a safe zone and the careful management of any risks associated with using this high-powered equipment. A big part of a drainage engineer’s role is to ensure that they can work efficiently under pressure, delivering high-quality work and ensuring all health and safety measures are followed. 

As you might imagine, working as a drainage engineer can mean having the opportunity to work on a range of interesting (and unpleasant) projects. Along with smaller manageable day-to-day blockages, there are times when drainage engineers are called upon to remove bigger congealed masses that have formed in the sewer system. 

In 2017, Lanes worked with Thames Water to remove a 250 metre fatberg from the sewers beneath Whitechapel in London. Taking nine weeks to excavate the blockage -  made up of fats, oils and unflushable objects, including wet wipes, cotton buds and nappies -  was the length of 11 double-decker buses and weighed 130 tonnes. 

Working with customers 

While it might not be the first thing that springs to mind when thinking about the role of a drainage engineer, good customer service skills are vital. 

Experiencing drainage and flooding issues can be hugely stressful and worrying for customers. Drainage engineers are relied upon to keep them updated on the status of the problem and informed about the progress of any maintenance work being carried out. 

CCTV drain surveying 

CCTV drain inspection camera technology has made it easier than ever to inspect and understand the many issues that develop within sewer and drain interiors, without the need for manual excavation. 

CCTV drainage engineers are specially trained to understand the techniques and processes involved in using this state-of-the-art equipment. 

At Lanes, our team uses the Panoramo 3D Optoscanner to capture panoramic images of sewer and drain surfaces for analysis. We are the only company in the UK with access to this technology and it allows us to provide workable solutions for clients as quickly and efficiently as possible. 

If you’re interested in learning more, read about drainage engineers Brian Macallister and James Lewis’s experiences of working for Lanes. 

When are drainage engineers needed?

Drainage engineers are integral to the maintenance, improvement, and efficiency of drainage systems, which are critical for public health, environmental protection, commercial drainage, and the integrity of infrastructure. Their expertise is required in a variety of situations, each highlighting the importance of their role.

From routine maintenance to emergencies, the skills of drainage engineers are essential. Construction and development projects frequently require the expertise of drainage engineers, and drainage contractors ensure that systems do not contaminate water sources or harm the environment.

With technological advancements, drainage engineers implement innovative methods and equipment, such as CCTV drain surveys and trenchless repair technologies. These advancements enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of drainage systems.

What are the requirements to become a drainage engineer?

When considering a career as a drainage engineer, it is important to understand the educational and training requirements necessary for the role.

• Driving license: the fundamental requirement for a drainage engineer is a full UK driving licence, with no more than three penalty points. Some positions may require a full HGV Class 1 or 2 licence, along with a completed certificate of professional competence (CPC).

• Technical skills: candidates should have certified experience in using high-pressure water jetting equipment. Additional qualifications like a New Roads and Street Works Act (NRSWA) training qualification, an updated Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card, and knowledge of working in confined spaces are beneficial.

• Transferable skills and potential: recruiters value candidates with transferable skills and strong potential, even if they have little experience in drainage. This opens opportunities for individuals from various backgrounds to join the field.

Lanes Group provides comprehensive training, including a City & Guilds-accredited Drainage Engineer Course. This course covers drainage theory, legislation and professional safety standards, delivered by our drainage industry experts.

• On-the-job support: for drainage assistant roles, additional on-the-job support is provided, usually involving working alongside a more senior staff member as part of a two-person team.
• Long-term career development: the company offers long-term training pathways, enabling employees to build their skills and advance professionally with the support of experienced engineering mentors.

Joining Lanes Group isn’t just about a job; it’s about building a career with long-term prospects, with opportunities to work in various locations across the UK, thanks to the company’s expansive network. We look for enthusiastic and driven individuals to join our team, as well as having qualifications. Our drainage engineer jobs offer competitive salaries and the space you need to build on your expertise.

If you are interested in learning more, read about drainage engineers Brian Macallister and James Lewis’s experiences working for Lanes.

We are always looking for enthusiastic people to join our team, so if you think you have the necessary skills we would love to hear from you. Read about what it is like to work with us, or check out our drainage engineer job vacancies today.