Latest results published today show staff numbers fell to 15,329 as of September 30 2010 compared to 16,235 at the same time last year.

The confirmation of staff cuts came as the firm revealed a rise in pre-tax profits to £41.7m from £40.9m for the half year as turnover dipped to £664.2m from £701.2m.

Keith Clarke, chief executive, said: “These good results demonstrate our resilience as we have continued to perform in challenging conditions.

“We have anticipated difficult markets and continue to take timely action to ensure we are in the best position to respond to our clients’ changing needs.

“The scale, breadth and depth of our technical skills and our more balanced geographic footprint mean we are well positioned for future growth.”

Job cuts across the divisions from Sep 09 – Sep 10

Design and Engineering  (356), Highways ( 10), Rail  (72),  Middle East (656), China and Europe  (+8),  Management and  Project Services (25),  Asset Management  (97)