At a Glance
- Tasks: Oversee environmental compliance on major construction projects across the UK.
- Company: Join a leading environmental compliance team at WSP.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and opportunities for travel.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities to mentor and lead diverse teams.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainability in infrastructure projects.
- Qualifications: Degree in Environmental Science or related field; strong compliance experience required.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
Locations: London, Manchester, Birmingham, Cardiff, Leeds, Cambridge, Exeter, Nottinghamshire, Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom.
We're now looking for a skilled and independent Principal Environmental Clerk of Works (EnvCoW) to join our growing Environmental Compliance team. As a senior environmental compliance professional, you will act as an independent, impartial EnvCoW, providing transparent oversight of construction activities across complex infrastructure projects. You will monitor environmental performance, evaluate compliance with consents and legislation, and help ensure that environmental commitments are upheld. This is a field based position with regular travel across the UK.
What You’ll Do
- Deliver independent, evidence based environmental compliance monitoring.
- Safeguard adherence to planning conditions, licences, permits and legislation.
- Identify, record and escape risks, issues and non‑compliances.
- Support strong environmental governance across project teams.
Site, Audit & Reporting Responsibilities
- Lead environmental inspections and structured audits across multi-site construction projects.
- Develop project-wide inspection and audit plans defining compliance criteria.
- Produce clear, evidence based weekly RAG reports and monthly compliance summaries.
- Interpret CEMPs, species protection plans, licences and environmental documentation.
- Mentor and support EnvCoWs to drive consistent, high quality delivery.
- Provide senior technical guidance on environmental risks and mitigation requirements.
- Engage effectively with clients, contractors, regulators and planning authorities.
- Contribute to bids, proposals and development of new environmental compliance work.
- Support CPD, training and development of junior team members.
About You
You’ll bring credibility, independence and strong environmental judgement, with:
- Strong experience in environmental compliance within construction or infrastructure.
- Excellent understanding of UK environmental legislation.
- Demonstrated impartiality and evidence based decision making.
- Advanced auditing, analytical and reporting skills.
- Strong communication, influencing and stakeholder engagement abilities.
- Ability to lead, mentor and coordinate multidisciplinary teams.
- Resilience and adaptability in challenging site environments.
- Highly organised approach with good problem solving capabilities.
Qualifications
- Degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Management, Ecology or related discipline.
- Membership of a relevant professional body (e.g., AEnvCoW, CIEEM, ISEP).
- CSCS card (or willingness to obtain).
- Auditing or environmental compliance training (desirable).
Equal Opportunity
Here at WSP we positively encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy or maternity/paternity. As a Disability Confident leader, we will interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria, please let us know if you require any workplace adjustments in support of your application.
Principal Environmental Clerk of Works employer: Job Search Place Limited
WSP is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises environmental integrity and professional growth. With opportunities for mentorship and development within a supportive team, employees can thrive in a field-based role that promotes meaningful contributions to sustainable infrastructure across the UK. The company's commitment to diversity and inclusion ensures a welcoming environment for all, making it an ideal place for passionate professionals seeking to make a difference.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Environmental Clerk of Works
✨Get Involved in Local Environmental Initiatives
Dive into your local environmental scenes, like community clean-up projects or eco-focused events. Not only will you meet like-minded people, but it's a surefire way to showcase your passion and skills in environmental engineering tech.
✨Join Industry-Specific Organisations
Check out organisations like the Institution of Environmental Engineers for networking opportunities and resources. They often host events and seminars that can help us connect with key players in the industry, including potential employers like Job Search Place Limited.
✨Show Off Your Projects and Passion
Create a portfolio that highlights any relevant projects, whether it's coursework, internships, or personal initiatives. Share this online, perhaps even on platforms like GitHub or your own website, to grab the attention of hiring managers looking for talent like us.
✨Utilise Environmental Job Boards
Take advantage of niche job boards dedicated to environmental careers. Sites like Green Jobs, Environmental Career and EcoJobs often feature openings from companies like Job Search Place Limited and can help us land that full-time gig.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Environmental Clerk of Works
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for a role in environmental engineering tech, make sure to highlight your technical skills like CAD software proficiency, data analysis, or modelling techniques. These are essential for the job and should stand out in your CV and cover letter, showing how you can contribute to projects at Job Search Place Limited.
Demonstrate Your Passion for Sustainability:In this field, showcasing your passion for sustainability and environmental protection can set you apart. Include any relevant projects, volunteer experience, or courses that underline your commitment to these causes. Job Search Place Limited will appreciate candidates who genuinely care about making a difference.
Tailor Your Application to the Role:Don't just send a generic CV and cover letter. Make sure to tailor your application to the specific role of Principal Environmental Clerk of Works at Job Search Place Limited. Highlight experiences that align directly with the job description and give concrete examples of your work to demonstrate that you’re the right fit for a full-time position.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have certifications related to environmental engineering or technology, like LEED Accreditation or any relevant software certifications, make sure to mention them. These qualifications can boost your application and show that you’re serious about your professional development in this competitive field.
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Search Place Limited
✨Brush Up on Environmental Regulations
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest environmental regulations and standards. In an environmental engineering tech role at Job Search Place Limited, you might be asked specific questions about compliance measures, so understanding these will definitely give you an edge.
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your proficiency with relevant tools and software, such as AutoCAD or GIS. You might be given a practical problem to solve during the interview, so it’s a great idea to brush up on these skills and perhaps even bring a portfolio of your projects to showcase your technical prowess.
✨Highlight Your Passion for Sustainability
In a full-time role, employers are looking for commitment and enthusiasm. Share your experiences, studies, or projects that reflect your passion for environmental sustainability. This will show Job Search Place Limited that you're not just qualified but genuinely invested in the field.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Be ready for behavioural questions that assess how you handle teamwork, conflict, and project management. Think of examples from your studies or practical experiences where you tackled challenges effectively, showcasing both your technical and interpersonal skills.
