From April 2025 to March 2030, the sector is operating under Asset Management Period 8 (AMP8), the latest regulatory cycle defined by Ofwat, the Water Services Regulation Authority. This isn’t just another planning period; AMP8 represents a fundamental reset in ambition, investment and the strategic direction of water services in England and Wales.

For candidates and professionals considering a career or progression in the water sector, understanding the meaning of AMP8 isn’t just useful, it’s essential. It offers insight into where the industry is heading, the skills in demand, and the kinds of opportunities that will shape the next five years.

What Is AMP8?

At its core, AMP8 is the eighth five-year regulatory cycle during which water companies submit detailed Asset Management Plans outlining how they will invest in and operate their infrastructure. These plans cover everything from asset maintenance and environmental performance to customer service outcomes and long-term resilience. AMP8 follows the AMP7 cycle and builds on it by prioritising sustainability and innovation in response to pressing environmental challenges.

Ofwat uses these plans to determine how much water companies can invest and how much they can charge customers, but the impact of AMP8 goes far beyond pricing, it will shape strategic priorities and create demand for specific skills and expertise in the workforce.

Why AMP8 Is Different and Why It Matters to You

What sets AMP8 apart from earlier cycles is the scale, ambition, and urgency of its objectives. For the first time in the regulatory framework’s history, there is an unprecedented level of investment (more than £100 billion) directed towards tackling both longstanding and emerging challenges.

Candidates with the right skills and mindset will find a wealth of opportunities because AMP8 isn’t simply about maintaining infrastructure, it’s about transforming the way water services are delivered:

There is a strong emphasis on environmental protection, including reducing storm overflows, improving water quality, and supporting biodiversity.

Digital transformation and data-driven asset management are key priorities, driving demand for professionals with experience in modern technologies, digital monitoring and smart infrastructure.

To support net-zero goals by 2030, the sector is seeking people who can deliver or contribute to carbon reduction and sustainability initiatives.

This shift isn’t just good for the environment, it’s shaping a new generation of career paths and specialisms within water engineering, infrastructure delivery, asset management and environmental compliance.

Engineering Skills in Demand for AMP8

With AMP8 ushering in a wave of infrastructure investment and modernisation across the UK water industry, engineering professionals and contractors are set to play a central role in delivering the sector’s ambitious goals. Whether you’re already working in the field or considering a move into water engineering, the skills you bring to the table have never been more relevant.

Civil and mechanical engineering expertise is essential as companies ramp up large-scale infrastructure upgrades. From designing and constructing treatment works and pumping stations to maintaining ageing pipe networks, these roles are at the heart of AMP8 delivery. Engineers who understand both legacy systems and modern, sustainable methods of delivery will be highly sought after.

Site engineering and project delivery skills will also be critical. As projects move from design to implementation, experienced site engineers and project managers are needed to oversee day-to-day operations, ensure compliance, and manage on-site logistics in often complex and live environments.

Design engineering and planning capabilities are increasingly important as water companies prioritise whole-life asset planning. Engineers with experience in pre-construction planning, design optimisation, and use of BIM and 3D modelling tools will stand out in a sector placing greater emphasis on efficiency and futureproofing.

Knowledge of sustainable and low-carbon engineering solutions is becoming a defining skillset under AMP8. As the industry aims to meet net-zero targets, engineers who can specify and implement low-impact materials, energy-efficient systems, and innovative wastewater technologies will help shape a more resilient water network.

Problem solving and interdisciplinary collaboration are also essential. Water engineering today involves more than technical calculations, it’s about adapting to constraints, working across disciplines, and delivering solutions that meet regulatory, environmental and customer expectations.

As AMP8 unfolds, engineering professionals will be at the forefront of a new chapter in the UK’s water story, one that prioritises resilience, innovation and sustainability. Whether your strength lies in technical design, on-site execution or strategic planning, there’s never been a better time to apply your engineering skills in this vital sector.

How to Position Yourself for AMP8 Opportunities

If you’re considering or advancing a career in the water sector, here’s how you can align your development with AMP8:

Understand the broader context. AMP8 isn’t just a five-year plan, it’s part of how the UK water industry responds to long-term challenges like climate change, ageing infrastructure and changing customer expectations.

Develop both technical and soft skills. Practical engineering knowledge is essential, but so are communication, project coordination and innovation mindset, the ability to think beyond traditional delivery models.

Embrace digital literacy. Whether it’s using GIS systems, predictive maintenance platforms, or data visualisation tools, digital capability increasingly underpins water sector roles.

Consider professional qualifications. Sector-recognised certifications and memberships with professional bodies can improve your credibility and career progression.

Work with specialist recruiters. Agencies like Carrington West work closely with water companies and contractors to match candidates with roles that align to AMP8 priorities, helping you find the right opportunities early in the cycle.

If you’re ready to explore how AMP8 could shape your career, browse our water industry jobs or talk to one of our specialist water and wastewater industry recruiters at Carrington West to identify roles that match your skills and ambitions.