At a Glance
- Tasks: Monitor environmental compliance on exciting infrastructure projects across the UK.
- Company: Join WSP, a leader in environmental compliance with a commitment to sustainability.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and opportunities for travel.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities to mentor and lead multidisciplinary teams.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the environment while working on diverse construction sites.
- Qualifications: Degree in Environmental Science or related field; strong compliance experience required.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 70000 ÂŁ 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: WSP Global Inc.
Contact Detail:
WSP Global Inc. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Environmental Clerk of Works
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the environmental sector and let them know you're on the hunt for a Principal Environmental Clerk of Works role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Get your hands dirty with some field experience! If you can, volunteer for projects or attend site visits related to environmental compliance. This not only boosts your CV but also gives you real-world insights that can impress potential employers during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on UK environmental legislation and recent case studies. Be ready to discuss how you've tackled compliance issues in the past. Show them you’re not just knowledgeable but also passionate about making a difference in environmental governance.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We love seeing applications from candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our Environmental Compliance team. Tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience and skills, and let’s get you on board!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Environmental Clerk of Works
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. Highlight your environmental compliance experience and any relevant qualifications to show us you’re the right fit for the Principal Environmental Clerk of Works role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about environmental compliance and how your background aligns with our needs. Be sure to mention specific projects or experiences that demonstrate your expertise.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: As this role involves engaging with various stakeholders, make sure to highlight your communication abilities in your application. We want to see examples of how you've effectively influenced and collaborated with others in past roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at WSP Global Inc.
✨Know Your Environmental Legislation
Make sure you brush up on UK environmental legislation relevant to construction and infrastructure. Being able to discuss specific laws and how they apply to the role will show your expertise and commitment to compliance.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that ask you to demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world situations. Think of examples from your past experience where you identified risks or non-compliances and how you addressed them effectively.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Principal EnvCoW, you'll need to engage with various stakeholders. Prepare to discuss how you've successfully communicated complex environmental issues to clients, contractors, and regulators in the past.
✨Demonstrate Leadership and Mentoring Experience
Highlight any experience you have in leading teams or mentoring junior staff. Be ready to share specific instances where your guidance made a difference in project outcomes or team performance.