Principal Geo-Environmental Consultant

We have an exciting opportunity to join RSK Geoscience in Central Scotland (Glasgow/Edinburgh). Working alongside an experienced and growing team based UK-wide, you will be involved with a wide variety of geo-environmental projects covering sectors including energy infrastructure, renewables (solar/wind) and development/regeneration projects. Key clients include Scottish Power Energy Networks (SPEN), Scottish Power Renewables, Tier 1 contractors such as Morrison & Wills Bros, and land contamination support to local authorities commissioned through the Scotland Excel engineering consultancy framework.

RSK Geoscience has been involved in several high-profile, award-winning projects recognised at the Environment Analyst Brownfield Awards for the last four years. In 2022 the company won awards for Best Project Preparatory Work, Best Research, Innovation or Advancement of Science in the Brownfield Sector and Best Early Career Brownfield Professional, and was highly commended for a fourth project.

What you can expect in this position

As a senior member of the team you will be expected to lead or assist in the delivery of geo-environmental projects. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong technical capabilities and be familiar with Scottish local authority and SEPA approaches to risk assessment, ideally also with the Environment Agency. You will assist with the technical review of geo-environmental reports from the outset. Project finance awareness, client-facing skills, self-motivation and a proactive approach are required.

You may base yourself out of RSK Geoscience offices in either Glasgow or Edinburgh, with occasional work from other RSK central-belt offices or from home in a hybrid form. There are ample opportunities to develop within this role and to assist in managing our growing team. The role is available as a full-time position, but part-time will also be considered.

What you’ll be doing

• Designing geo-environmental investigation projects and acting as project director/lead for larger complex sites, including the technical review of tenders and project reports.
• Peer review of third-party reports against regulatory standards and good practice.
• Working with technical and project leads to deliver appropriate solutions on geo-environmental matters in development, Part IIA, permitting (EPR/PPC/WML) and other relevant sectors.
• Supporting the wider RSK Geoscience team and technical leads by preparing and technically reviewing technical notes, drawings and reports and sharing knowledge through seminars and training.
• Communicating with colleagues, clients (both external and within the wider RSK Group) and stakeholders to build strong working relationships, aiming to meet and exceed client expectations, encourage repeat business and contribute to a strong team ethic.
• Supporting business development by promoting RSK Geoscience to the wider industry and attending and presenting at relevant events.
• Occasional travel to other RSK Geoscience UK offices.
• Stewardship of health, safety and environment in accordance with company standards and contributing to sustainability goals.
• Coaching and mentoring others within the geosciences team.

What we’re looking for

• Strong technical, commercial and project management capabilities.
• Practical experience in design, management and interpretation of geo-environmental site investigations.
• Thorough understanding of geology, ground investigation works and geo-environmental risk assessment, including human health and water environment. Experience in detailed quantitative risk assessment and risk assessment modelling would be an advantage.
• Excellent knowledge and understanding of current contaminated land and planning legislation and industry guidance and standards, particularly in Scotland.
• Proactive and self-starter, able to work independently and within teams face-to-face and remotely.
• Client-driven with the ability to motivate and engage with immediate colleagues, those across the wider RSK business and externally in conferences, events etc.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including report writing.
• Strong analytical skills and close attention to detail.
• Ability to multi-task, plan and prioritise workload.
• Computer literate and skilled with Microsoft Office applications, in particular Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Experience of using Microsoft Project also valuable.
• Full UK driving licence.

Qualifications / Certification

• BSc degree level qualified in Geology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or similar.
• Chartered Geologist/Engineer/Environmentalist with a relevant professional body.
• Post-chartership qualification (SoBRA-accredited risk assessor and/or Specialist in Land Condition – SiLC) desirable.
• Typically requires at least 15 years of relevant experience.

Salary & Benefits

• £commensurate with experience.
• Contributory pension scheme.
• Flexible and part-time working considered.
• Free life assurance cover.
• Flexible benefits programme including the option to buy childcare vouchers, additional holidays and private healthcare.
• Support with continued professional and leadership development and payment of professional membership fees.

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.

By providing workplace adjustments, we make it easier for people to confidently explore and pursue our career opportunities and recognise that flexibility is key to fostering a dynamic and thriving workplace. Many of our office-based positions benefit from a flexible working arrangement, allowing our team members to achieve a balance between professional and personal commitments.

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.