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- Tasks: Monitor construction activities and ensure ecological compliance on a landmark reservoir project.
- Company: Join Binnies, a leader in sustainable infrastructure and environmental solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy private health insurance, flexible working, and mental health support.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on biodiversity while developing your career in ecology.
- Qualifications: Degree in environmental discipline and 3 years of ecological survey experience required.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive culture that values diversity and personal growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Vacancy
The South East Strategic Reservoir Option (SESRO) is a landmark 150 million cubic metre reservoir near Abingdon. This project not only aims to secure vital water resources but also aspires to enhance biodiversity through new habitat creation and deliver new leisure and recreational amenities. Learn more about SESRO here: https://thames-
Binnies is proud to be working in joint venture with Arup as the delivery partner for SESRO, supporting Thames Water in securing a Development Consent Order (DCO) for this nationally significant infrastructure project. Together, we are responsible for all design, consenting, and environmental services for the integrated scheme.
Our Ecological Clerk of Works are currently supporting ongoing investigation works required to inform the design and DCO submission in late 2026. The need for ecological supervision is however increasing as the project evolves and we are looking to expand our team of dedicated Ecological Clerk of Works to play a key role in ensuring ecological compliance and best practice on site.
While SESRO will be your primary focus, you\’ll also become a valued member of our national ecology and environmental team, with opportunities to contribute to other major infrastructure projects in the future. You can also join our active Ecological and Environmental Clerk of Works Communities of Practice.
If not already a full /chartered member of CIEEM we can provide mentoring. You will also benefit from technical, and H&S training and paid membership of two professional institutions.
Binnies is a registered Ecological (CIEEM) and Landscape Practice (Landscape Institute) and holds the IEMA (now ISEP) EIA Quality Mark. We also sponsor AECOW reflecting our commitment to promoting site based environmental roles.
About The Role
Our Ecological Clerk of Works ensure that construction activities are carried out in accordance with environmental legislation, permits and mitigation strategies. You\’ll work closely with contractors, ecological leads and survey co-ordinators to safeguard habitats and species, while supporting the programme of site works.
Your key responsibilities will be:
- Monitor construction activities to ensure compliance with ecological requirements and mitigation measures.
- Provide on-site ecological advice and guidance to contractors.
- Conduct ecological monitoring, pre-commencement surveys, and watching briefs.
- Liaise with investigation and engineering leads on their programmes and to ensure the appropriate ecological supervision.
- Maintain accurate site records and digital recording of incidental ecological constraints.
- Deliver toolbox talks and ecological awareness training to site personnel.
- Support the wider SESRO ecological surveys as required.
If you would like to discuss the role in advance of making a formal application, please contact our Environmental Services leader Emma Stevens at or through LinkedIn.
Essential Requirements
Candidates should demonstrate the following qualifications and experience:
- Degree in an environmental related discipline
- Membership of CIEEM and/or AECOW
- Minimum of 3 years\’ ecological survey experience
- Proven experience as an ecological clerk of works
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Experience in GIS and digital collection tools
- Exemplar health & safety awareness and behaviours
- Full UK driving licence
Candidates must be based within a commutable distance of the SESRO site near Abingdon.
This is a site-based role with some flexibility in working hours required depending on activity. We aim to keep this to a minimum and support a healthy work-life balance.
Desirable Requirements
Ecological survey specialisms or licences are beneficial but not essential. Experience in ornithological surveys is particularly valued, given the site\’s importance for nesting and wintering birds.
Why join us
Would you like to work in a business where you feel empowered to grow? Where there is no place for criticism or discrimination? A place where people are mindful and respectful? If so, then Binnies is the place for you.
We have a strong \’ENGAGED\’ culture that runs through everything we do. Evolved over 100 years, we have a culture of caring, where our employee\’s wellbeing and work-life balance are priorities, in fact we have industry leading flexible and hybrid working arrangements. We pride ourselves on providing an inclusive working environment, where a diverse workforce is supported to grow and develop.
The successful applicant will go from being great alone to truly amazing with Binnies.
About Us
We develop intelligent solutions using our award-winning integrated planning and design approach to deliver functional infrastructure and lasting environmental and social legacies. This is backed by a culture that has stayed true since our foundation over 100 years ago. We create new possibilities for humanity through our innovative approach to delivery.
Together with our clients, we are always striving to find a smarter way to deliver projects. From providing low carbon, sustainable and resilient water solutions, flood alleviation and environment services, to connecting people with insights and data. Our business exists to improve the quality of life for our local communities today and for generations to come.
Binnies is part of the RSK Group, a leading integrated environmental, engineering, and technical services business providing dynamic, multidisciplinary services to a wide range of sectors. RSK was founded in 1989 and has grown considerably since then.
At RSK, we operate as a group of businesses that work together seamlessly, aiming for growth through diversification. Our strategy helps us build a strong and resilient business, capable of weathering external challenges, while also providing greater value to our clients and more opportunities for our employees.
Since the beginning, our philosophy has remained the same: employ, develop and reward talented individuals. People are crucial to our company, and we recognise that our success hinges on our colleagues\’ growth. We\’re committed to preserving RSK\’s people-first culture, promoting innovation, and fostering a supportive and caring environment for collaboration. At RSK, we want you to be part of our successes and help you reach your career aspirations. We take pride in offering employees fulfilling and challenging careers by promoting ongoing growth and empowering individuals to excel.
We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. We firmly believe that embracing and celebrating the diversity in our workforce makes us a stronger and more innovative company.
If you\’re passionate about making a difference, join us as we work together to build a brighter, more equitable, and sustainable future for all. Do you have what it takes?
Benefits
Private Health Insurance
Income Protection
High Street Vouchers
Life Assurance
Annual Leave Purchase
Cycle to Work Scheme
Discounted Gym Membership
Mental Health Support
Electric Vehicle Salary Sacrifice Scheme
Ecological Clerk of Works for the South East Strategic Reservoir Option employer: Binnies
Contact Detail:
Binnies Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Ecological Clerk of Works for the South East Strategic Reservoir Option
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those connected to SESRO or similar projects. A friendly chat can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for ecology! When you get the chance to speak with potential employers, share your enthusiasm for biodiversity and environmental protection. It’s all about making that personal connection.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your ecological knowledge and recent developments in the field. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to the SESRO project specifically.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Ecological Clerk of Works for the South East Strategic Reservoir Option
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Ecological Clerk of Works role. Highlight your relevant experience, especially in ecological surveys and compliance with environmental legislation. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your background makes you a great fit. Don’t forget to mention your commitment to biodiversity and environmental protection, as that’s key for us.
Showcase Your Skills: Be sure to highlight any specific skills that are relevant to the job, like GIS experience or ecological monitoring. We love seeing candidates who can demonstrate their technical abilities and how they can contribute to our projects.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Binnies
✨Know Your Ecology
Brush up on your ecological knowledge, especially related to the specific habitats and species relevant to the SESRO project. Be prepared to discuss how you would ensure compliance with ecological requirements and mitigation measures during construction.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Highlight your previous experience as an ecological clerk of works. Share specific examples of how you've monitored construction activities and provided on-site ecological advice. This will demonstrate your capability and confidence in the role.
✨Communicate Effectively
Strong interpersonal skills are key for this position. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely, especially when discussing complex ecological concepts. Remember, you'll need to liaise with contractors and other team members regularly.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask at the end of the interview. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the company. You might want to inquire about the specific ecological challenges they anticipate for the SESRO project or how they support ongoing professional development.
