Biosecurity & INNS Officer

Biosecurity & INNS Officer

Reading Full-Time 40000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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Thames Water Utilities Limited

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join our Biodiversity team to combat invasive species and enhance biosecurity.
  • Company: Thames Water is the UK's largest water and wastewater company, serving over 16 million customers.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous leave, pension scheme, and health benefits.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on the environment while enjoying diverse career opportunities and flexible working.
  • Qualifications: Experience in INNS management and project management; degree in Environmental Science preferred.
  • Other info: Valid UK driving license required; travel across the Thames Water region is necessary.

The predicted salary is between 40000 - 60000 £ per year.

Job title Biosecurity & INNS Officer Ref 41627 Division Asset Operations & Capital Delivery Location Reading – Clearwater Court – RG1 8DB Contract type Permanent Full/Part-time Full-time Salary Competitive salary up to £50,000 per annum depending on experience. Job grade B Closing date 06/08/2025

We are seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable Invasive Non-Native Species (INNS)/Biosecurity Officer to join our central Biodiversity team. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in reducing the introduction and spread of both terrestrial and aquatic INNS across our catchment. This will be achieved through collaborative work with our operations teams and external stakeholders to manage and mitigate key risks.

What you’ll be doing as a Biosecurity & INNS Officer

  • Formulate an implementation plan for the successful delivery of the recommendations outlined in the Thames Water company-wide INNS plan.
  • Monitor and report on the effectiveness of current INNS management programs.
  • Surveying and mapping of INNS on our operational sites.
  • Working with grounds maintenance contractors and framework contractors to efficiently control and eradicate priority INNS.
  • Working with internal Thames Water teams to deliver the obligations in the AMP 8 Water Industry National Environment Programme (WINEP) programme and update the Environment Agency on progress.
  • Providing or organising technical advice to the business on INNS management.
  • Ensure consistent biosecurity processes on a company-wide basis.
  • Work alongside teams in Operations to deliver technologically robust and proven solutions, such as wash-down stations for boats and fishing equipment, that will meet the regulatory requirements.
  • Work closely with the Environmental Engagement team, who lead on river catchment strategies, the catchment initiatives programme and environmental partnerships, to partake in collaborative projects.
  • Organising volunteering events for Thames Water employees, as part of Invasive Non-Native Species week.
  • Presence on river catchment groups and Local Nature Recovery Strategy Groups, where appropriate.
  • Represent Thames Water at external working groups regarding INNS, such as the Water Industry Forum, Water UK INNS network and the Non-Native Species Secretariat.
  • We work closely alongside our recreational partners, such as sailing and fishing clubs, to embed good security practices and undertake spot checks throughout the year.

Working hours: 36 hours per week

Necessary requirements for the role: Valid UK driving license and willingness to travel the full Thames Water region

What you should bring to the role

  • Experience in delivering or organising terrestrial and aquatic Invasive Non-Native Species management.
  • Project management experience – tender process through to delivery, including the management of budgets.
  • Excellent communication, interpersonal skills and extensive stakeholder engagement experience.
  • Identification of common terrestrial and aquatic Invasive Non-Native Species.
  • Be fully competent at using the appropriate company IT systems, Office software and GIS.
  • Valid UK driving license and willingness to travel the full Thames Water region.
  • A degree in Environmental Science, Ecology, Biology, or a related field is desirable.

What’s in it for you?

  • Competitive salary up to £50,000 per annum depending on experience.
  • Annual Leave- 26 days holiday per year, increasing to 30 with the length of service. (plus bank holidays)
  • Generous Pension Scheme through AON
  • Access to lots of benefits to help you take care of you and your family’s health and wellbeing, and your finances – from annual health MOTs and access to physiotherapy and counselling, to Cycle to Work schemes, shopping vouchers and life assurance.

We’re the UK’s largest water and wastewater company, with more than 16 million customers relying on us every day to supply water for their taps and toilets. We want to build a better future for all, helping our customers, communities, people, and the planet to thrive. It’s a big job and we’ve got a long way to go, so we need help from passionate and skilled people, committed to making a difference and getting us to where we want to be in the years and decades to come.

Thames Water is a unique, rewarding, and diverse place to work, where every day you can make a difference, yet no day is the same. As part of our family, you’ll enjoy fast-tracked career opportunities, flexible working arrangements and excellent benefits.

Whether you’re interested in a role in one of our call centres or science labs, we’re looking for people like you with real passion and a burning desire to make things better.

So, if you’re looking for a sustainable and successful career where you can make a daily difference to millions of people’s lives while helping to protect the world of water for future generations, we’ll be here to support you every step of the way. Together, we can build a better future for our customers, our region and our planet.

Real purpose, real support, real opportunities. Come and join the Thames Water family. Why choose us? Learn more.

Our overarching aim is to ensure that Thames Water is a great, diverse, and inclusive place to work. We welcome applications from everyone and offer extra support for those who need it throughout the recruitment process . Our aim is to remove any real or perceived barriers to success, so if you need assistance, we’re here to help and support .

When a crisis happens, we all rally around to support our customers. As part of Team Thames, you’ll have the opportunity to sign up to support our customers on the frontline as an ambassador. Full training will be given for what is undoubtedly an incredibly rewarding experience. It’s also a great opportunity to learn more about our business and meet colleagues.

Disclaimer: Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we may close the advertisement earlier than the advertised date. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

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Biosecurity & INNS Officer employer: Thames Water Utilities Limited

Thames Water is an exceptional employer, offering a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package that includes generous annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and various health and wellbeing initiatives. Our inclusive work culture fosters collaboration and innovation, providing employees with fast-tracked career opportunities and the chance to make a meaningful impact on the environment and communities we serve. Located in Reading, our team is dedicated to building a sustainable future for millions, making every day at Thames Water a rewarding experience.
Thames Water Utilities Limited

Contact Detail:

Thames Water Utilities Limited Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Biosecurity & INNS Officer

✨Tip Number 1

Network with professionals in the environmental and biodiversity sectors. Attend relevant conferences or workshops where you can meet people who work in biosecurity or invasive species management. This can help you gain insights into the industry and potentially lead to job referrals.

✨Tip Number 2

Familiarise yourself with the latest regulations and best practices related to INNS and biosecurity. Being knowledgeable about current policies will not only prepare you for interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role and the organisation's mission.

✨Tip Number 3

Engage with local conservation groups or initiatives focused on invasive species. Volunteering or participating in these activities can provide you with practical experience and show your dedication to the cause, making you a more attractive candidate.

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare to discuss specific projects you've managed or contributed to that relate to INNS or biosecurity. Highlighting your project management skills and successful outcomes will set you apart from other candidates during the interview process.

We think you need these skills to ace Biosecurity & INNS Officer

Invasive Non-Native Species (INNS) Management
Project Management
Stakeholder Engagement
Environmental Science Knowledge
Ecology and Biology Expertise
Surveying and Mapping Skills
Technical Advice Provision
Communication Skills
Interpersonal Skills
Budget Management
GIS Proficiency
Collaboration with External Stakeholders
Problem-Solving Skills
Organisational Skills
Valid UK Driving License

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in managing invasive non-native species and biosecurity. Use specific examples that demonstrate your project management skills and stakeholder engagement.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that clearly outlines your passion for biodiversity and your understanding of the role. Mention how your background in Environmental Science or related fields aligns with the job requirements.

Showcase Relevant Skills: Emphasise your communication and interpersonal skills, as well as your ability to work collaboratively with various teams. Provide examples of how you've successfully engaged with stakeholders in previous roles.

Highlight Technical Competence: Mention your proficiency with IT systems, Office software, and GIS tools. If you have experience with specific biosecurity measures or technologies, be sure to include those details.

How to prepare for a job interview at Thames Water Utilities Limited

✨Know Your INNS

Familiarise yourself with the latest information on Invasive Non-Native Species (INNS) and their impact on biodiversity. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of INNS management strategies you've encountered or implemented in the past.

✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills

Highlight your experience in project management, especially in relation to environmental projects. Be ready to discuss how you've managed budgets, timelines, and stakeholder engagement in previous roles.

✨Demonstrate Communication Skills

Effective communication is key for this role. Prepare to provide examples of how you've successfully engaged with various stakeholders, including contractors and community groups, to achieve project goals.

✨Prepare Questions About Collaboration

Since the role involves working closely with different teams and external partners, think of insightful questions about collaboration and teamwork. This shows your interest in building relationships and understanding the company's collaborative culture.

Biosecurity & INNS Officer
Thames Water Utilities Limited
Location: Reading
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