Lead Environmental Clerk of Works (EnviroCoW)

This position is for an experienced Lead Environmental Clerk of Works (EnviroCoW) to support the delivery of a major infrastructure project at the Banniskirk Substation site in Thurso. The role is central to ensuring that all construction activities are carried out in full compliance with environmental legislation, planning obligations, and agreed sustainability commitments.

As the on-site environmental lead, you will act as the key point of contact for environmental management matters, working closely with project managers, contractors, engineers, and regulators. You will be responsible for ensuring that environmental risks are identified early, effectively controlled, and continuously monitored throughout the construction phase.

This role requires a highly competent environmental professional with significant experience in construction environments, particularly those involving sensitive ecological receptors such as protected habitats, watercourses, peatland systems, and protected species. Candidates must be a Full Member of CIEEM (Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management), demonstrating professional credibility and adherence to recognised ecological and environmental standards. A strong working knowledge of UK environmental legislation, including SEPA (Scottish Environment Protection Agency) requirements, is essential.

Key Requirements

The successful candidate will act as the named Lead EnviroCoW for the duration of the project. This includes holding valid copies of relevant protected species survey licences, such as those for bats, great crested newts, badgers, or other applicable species depending on site conditions. A strong understanding of environmental compliance frameworks is essential, particularly Construction Environmental Management Plans (CEMP) and how they are implemented on active construction sites. The role requires proven experience in managing environmental compliance in real time, ensuring that contractors adhere to agreed procedures and regulatory requirements. Applicants should have a strong background in site-based environmental roles, ideally within large-scale infrastructure or utilities projects. Experience working in challenging environments with complex ecological constraints will be highly beneficial.

Key Responsibilities

• Environmental Compliance & Site Inspections: You will conduct routine site inspections to ensure full compliance with statutory environmental requirements and internal procedures. This includes monitoring adherence to the CEMP, planning conditions, and environmental permits. You will also identify risks and propose mitigation measures to prevent environmental harm.
• Ecology & Environmental Protection: The role involves safeguarding sensitive ecological features, including habitats, soils, water systems, and protected species. You will support ecological supervision during pre-construction and construction phases, ensuring mitigation measures are properly implemented and maintained.
• Reporting & Data Management: You will be responsible for collecting and managing environmental performance data, ensuring accurate records are maintained for audits and regulatory reporting. This includes producing clear, evidence-based reports for both internal stakeholders and external regulators, as well as managing non-conformance reports and corrective actions.
• Incident Management: In the event of environmental incidents, you will assist in investigations, identify root causes, and recommend preventative measures to reduce recurrence. Your role will be key in strengthening environmental resilience on site.
• Stakeholder & Contractor Support: You will provide proactive environmental advice to contractors and project teams, supporting them in maintaining compliance and securing necessary environmental permits, consents, and exemptions. You will also contribute to day-to-day operational decision-making from an environmental perspective.
• Sustainability & Continuous Improvement: The role includes promoting best environmental practice across all site activities. You will identify trends, highlight opportunities for improvement, and deliver toolbox talks, training sessions, and environmental briefings to raise awareness among site personnel.

Key Focus Areas

The project will place particular emphasis on pre-construction ecological surveys, peat and soil management, water environment protection, and effective waste and pollution control. Habitat and species protection will be a continuous priority, alongside strict adherence to SEPA regulations and all relevant planning conditions. You will also play a critical role in incident response planning and environmental reporting, ensuring that the project maintains high environmental standards throughout its duration and leaves a minimal ecological footprint.