A day in the life of a wastewater modeller

27 March 2025

Dr Joy Kean MCIWEM tells us about a typical day as a wastewater modeller at the engineering consultancy Stantec

Dr Joy Kean has worked as a wastewater modeller at Stantec for nearly two years. Before that, she was an analyst at JBA Consulting, specialising in flood risk management and sustainable drainage schemes (SuDS).

Tell us about your current role

As a wastewater modeller with a strong commitment to the environment, I support water companies in delivering sustainable solutions for combined sewer outflows (CSOs) and catchment problems. Specialising in SuDS, I provide guidance on design, planning and catchment opportunities. I also offer modelling support to a team of modellers. My goal is to deliver innovative blue-green solutions and reduce environmental harm by improving confidence in models and data to support feasible and buildable options.

What does a typical day look like?

I work part-time. Some weeks I am in the office more than others. It depends on whether I have important meetings or training sessions. Juggling childcare and work can be challenging but I really value face-to-face interaction with my colleagues, as well as the opportunity to mentor more junior team members.

Every day is different. As modellers we love analysing data and spreadsheets. Some days we do modelling or other numerical tasks. Other days I will be preparing presentations for client meetings. I can also be involved with design guidance and modelling principles or the creation of templates for new reporting guidelines or standards.

What skills does the job require?

Strong analytical abilities and proficiency in modelling and geographical information systems (GIS). Innovation is crucial, along with solid business and project management skills. A thorough understanding of environmental legislation is essential, as is excellent time management to meet tight deadlines and deliver quality results within budget.

What do you love about what you do?

I have a true passion for urban drainage. My love for nature and water from childhood naturally led me to this career. I enjoy sharing my knowledge, even encouraging my toddler to take an interest in nature and ponds. Designing and showcasing innovative surface water drainage solutions excites me, especially as it allows me to contribute to solving significant issues like storm overflow challenges.

Tell us about your team

Our team at Stantec is fantastic, blending diverse skills and expertise. We collaborate closely with civil and process engineers, as well as environmental specialists, to deliver projects. In this supportive environment, I've grown both professionally and personally.

Tell us about a project you have been working on recently

In preparation for AMP8 delivery, our team has been supporting Northumbrian Water on various projects. I've collaborated with strategic partners on the second phase of Drainage and Wastewater Management Plan (DWMP) projects, worked on storm overflow projects, and supported water quality objectives and modeling for Environment Act Investigation 4 (EnvAct INV4) driver projects.

What advice would you give to someone wanting to do your role?

Be confident and do it. If you don’t try, then you will never know. If you are unsure whether a particular career is right for you, ask the advice of those with experience in that field. There is no wrong path. I was passionate about teaching, but my lack of confidence held me back, so I opted for urban drainage instead. With a geography or environmental science degree, your opportunities are boundless. Until I completed my postgraduate studies, I was not sure of the right career.

What is your next career step?

Once I’m chartered with CIWEM, I look forward to mentoring and developing a small team of modellers. I would also like to enhance my project management skills and support project delivery at Stantec (from a technical perspective).

How do you benefit from membership of CIWEM?

CIWEM membership supports me to meet my professional and environmental goals. I would also like to pass my knowledge on to colleagues and mentor others through professional development.

Becoming a CIWEM member gives you a globally-recognised demonstration of your professionalism and technical abilities.Whether you have just started your career or are extensively experienced, we will have a membership grade that's right for you. Find out more here.