At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead soil assessments and manage projects while mentoring junior staff.
- Company: Join WSP, a leader in Earth & Environment with a flexible work culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, flexible hours, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on environmental projects while growing your career.
- Qualifications: Degree in Soil Science or related field with 5-10 years of experience.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to inclusivity and wellbeing.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Overview of the Senior Soil Science Consultant / Principal Soil Science Consultant role at WSP. This position supports the growth of the soil team within Ground & Water, part of WSP's Earth & Environment business. The location is flexible with a mix of home-based and office work; travel to sites and client meetings will be required.
What you will do:
- Lead and support fieldwork and site visits and produce written reports for Agricultural Land Classification (ALC), Soil Resource Assessment, and tailored assessments for Environmental Statements.
- Manage data to support technical reporting and provide advice to colleagues; liaise with clients, landowners, contractors, statutory authorities and third parties.
- Support project delivery across a range of projects and stages, including bidding, team management, project delivery, and financial management (with appropriate supervision).
- Mentor and train junior staff and promote knowledge sharing with other environmental disciplines.
Team context:
The role sits in the Ground & Water team within WSP’s Earth & Environment business. It is largely office-based but includes periods on-site for training and QA of surveys. The role offers flexible working arrangements (home/office) with travel as required.
Responsibilities:
- Preparation of a range of soil and agricultural assessments in support of DCOs, EIAs, and construction projects; coordination of survey work.
- Support UK-wide project delivery, assist in preparing fee proposals, business development, and work-winning activities.
- Contribute to the growth of the soil team and share knowledge with colleagues across related disciplines.
Qualifications:
- Degree-level qualification in Soil Science or similar (e.g., physical geology, environmental science) with 5–10 years of relevant practical experience.
- Experience in Agricultural Land Classification (ALC) surveys, Soil Resource Surveys, Soil Classification and site supervision during construction works to BSSS competency standards.
- Solid grounding in health & safety procedures (including CDM) for site work.
- Working knowledge of EIA methodology; desirably experience in Environmental Statements.
- Experience liaising with clients, contractors, planning authorities and stakeholders; excellent communication and report-writing skills.
- Professional status with a relevant body (e.g., British Society of Soil Science) and ideally chartered status.
- Knowledge of UK environmental legislation, construction impacts on agricultural land, and UK agricultural practice; GIS knowledge; full driving licence; willingness to work outdoors.
What we offer:
We are committed to work-life balance, inclusivity, and wellbeing. Benefits include hybrid working, flexible hours, training and development opportunities (including Chartership), and a supportive, diverse team environment. We actively encourage applications from suitably qualified candidates regardless of background.
Senior Soil Science Consultant / Principal Soil Science Consultant in Leeds employer: WSP
Contact Detail:
WSP Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Soil Science Consultant / Principal Soil Science Consultant in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the soil science field, attend industry events, and join relevant online forums. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Senior Soil Science Consultant gig!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your past projects, reports, and any ALC or Soil Resource Assessments you've completed. This will help you stand out during interviews and demonstrate your hands-on experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your answers and boost your confidence. Focus on how your skills align with WSP's needs and be ready to discuss your approach to project delivery.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It's the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining our team at WSP and contributing to the growth of the soil team.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Soil Science Consultant / Principal Soil Science Consultant in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in soil science and relevant projects. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your expertise!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since this role involves liaising with clients and producing reports, it’s crucial to demonstrate your excellent communication abilities. Use clear and concise language in your application to reflect this skill.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Be sure to mention any specific experience you have with Agricultural Land Classification or Soil Resource Assessments. We’re looking for candidates who can hit the ground running, so make your relevant experience stand out!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you get the best chance to shine in front of our hiring team!
How to prepare for a job interview at WSP
✨Know Your Soil Science
Brush up on your knowledge of soil science, especially Agricultural Land Classification and Soil Resource Assessment. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on and how your expertise can benefit the team at WSP.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since the role involves liaising with clients and stakeholders, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated complex information in past roles, especially in report writing and presentations.
✨Demonstrate Team Leadership
Highlight your experience in mentoring junior staff and managing teams. Think of instances where you’ve led a project or supported colleagues, as this will show your ability to contribute to the growth of the soil team.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect questions about real-world scenarios you might face in the role. Consider how you would handle site visits, data management, and health & safety procedures. Being able to discuss these confidently will set you apart.