Environmental Contracts Operative

37.5 hours per week, full-time (part-time considered). Based out of our HQ in Denby Dale or Sheffield hub, with travel to work sites across the UK.

Who Are We?

At Habitat Works, we are more than just an ecological consultancy. As both a consultancy and environmental contracting company, we deliver a diverse and rewarding range of projects for clients nationwide. Our services include ecological and botanical surveys, planning support, Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW), protected species surveys, wildlife licensing, and mitigation works. In addition to consultancy, our in-house environmental contracting team delivers a broad range of habitat management and creation projects.

About the Role…

Habitat Works Ltd is entering an exciting period of growth. Having recently moved into larger offices and expanded both our contracting and ecology team significantly, we are looking for a practical and enthusiastic individual to support us in delivering environmental contracting projects. The role will be based out of our Head Office in Denby Dale, Huddersfield. We also operate a hub in Sheffield that primarily acts as a storage facility and meeting point for travel to project sites. The successful candidate can expect to spend the majority of their time (approximately 80%) working on sites across the UK, with around 1–2 days per fortnight based in the office or working from home. Company pool vehicles are available for travel to sites, and overnight accommodation will be provided where required.

As an Environmental Contracts Operative, you will work as part of a small field team delivering a mix of habitat creation, restoration and management projects including, but not limited to:

• Ground prep and planting - trees, sphagnum, seeding, meadow creation
• Grassland enhancement and meadow creation
• Vegetation management – including invasive species control
• Pond, swale, and scrape creation
• Land reprofiling and in-channel watercourse works
• Natural Flood Management (NFM) schemes – including leaky dams and bunding
• Footpath construction and groundworks
• Installation of pedestrian furniture – gates, stiles, benches, and signage

Some of our work takes place in remote and extreme working conditions. Terrain is usually very rough, variable and uneven, and on very steep ground. Works will continue through challenging and difficult weather conditions. Applicants will need a good level of fitness and experience working in a demanding outdoor environment.

In addition to on‑site project delivery, the role will involve a range of supporting duties essential to the smooth running of our contracting operations:

• Support the maintenance, organisation and safe use of tools, plant and equipment, ensuring all items are kept in good working order.
• Assist with stock control, procuring, storage and preparation of materials for upcoming projects.
• Help maintain company vehicles, including routine checks and ensuring cleanliness and readiness for site work.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues, subcontractors and other stakeholders to deliver projects efficiently and safely.
• Follow method statements, risk assessments and health & safety procedures at all times.
• Assist with site set‑up, logistics and general project preparation as required.
• Communicate professionally with clients, landowners and members of the public, representing Habitat Works positively on site.
• Use initiative to support the team with general site duties and problem‑solving as they arise.

As the company continues to grow, there will be opportunities to develop skills and training across a wide range of contracting disciplines and progress into more senior or specialist roles over time.

What We’re Looking For

• At least one year’s experience in conservation, agriculture, forestry, landscaping, groundworks, or similar outdoor manual work
• Practical experience delivering land management tasks such as fencing, tree planting, vegetation management, landscaping, natural flood management, or wetland/watercourse works
• Some experience using, maintaining and taking responsibility for tools and equipment on site
• Some understanding of, and experience working to, method statements, risk assessments and health & safety procedures
• Ability to work effectively as part of a small team and independently
• Good problem‑solving skills and ability to use initiative in a practical working environment
• Confident communicator, able to work professionally with clients, contractors, landowners and members of the public
• Reliable, punctual and well‑organised, with a strong work ethic
• Physically fit and comfortable working in demanding outdoor conditions
• A great attitude and a genuine interest in conservation, environmental management and ecology
• Full UK driving licence
• Competence in the safe use of relevant tools and equipment, with certifications where applicable (e.g., brush cutter, chainsaw, 4x4, ATV) (desirable)
• Experience supporting site logistics, including material preparation, basic stock control or site set‑up (desirable)

Why Join Habitat Works?

At Habitat Works, you’ll be more than just part of a team — you’ll be a valued contributor in a supportive, collaborative environment. As a growing company, we offer the benefits of a close‑knit culture where your ideas are heard, your work is recognised, and you’ll have the chance to influence how we develop. Unlike larger corporates, we pride ourselves on variety and opportunity: you won’t be restricted to a single function but instead will gain broad experience across consultancy and contracting, with real scope to develop your skills and career. If you’re looking for a role where you’ll be seen, supported, and appreciated as part of an ambitious and friendly team, we’d love to hear from you.

Employee Benefits

• Competitive salary, reviewed annually
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
• 25 days annual leave (plus bank holidays), increasing with length of service
• Time off in lieu (TOIL) policy for additional hours worked
• Company pension scheme
• Paid professional membership fees (e.g., CIEEM)
• Generous training and development budget for internal and external courses
• Mentoring and clear pathways for career progression
• A friendly, collaborative culture where your contributions make a real difference

How to Apply…

Please send your CV and covering letter outlining how you meet the criteria in the ‘What we’re looking for’ section to. Applications through Linkedin will not be accepted. For further information or to have an informal discussion about the role, please call us.

Habitat Works Ltd is proud to be an equal opportunities employer. Recruitment and selection are based solely on merit. We are committed to promoting inclusivity and providing equality of opportunity. If you require support with your application, please contact us.