Principal Environmental Clerk of Works

What if you could shape a career as unique as you?

At WSP, you can always find opportunities to grow and do what matters to you. Make the most of our global reach to discover new challenges and chances to work with diverse, talented individuals who will help you expand your horizons.

As one of the world's leading engineering and environmental professional services firms, we are committed to creating solutions that enable communities and the natural environment to thrive.

We're now looking for a skilled and independent Principal Environmental Clerk of Works (EnvCoW) to join our growing Environmental Compliance team.

The Role

This is a field-based position with regular travel across the UK.

Environmental Assurance & Oversight

• Deliver independent, evidence-based environmental compliance monitoring.
• Safeguard adherence to planning conditions, licences, permits and legislation.
• Identify, record and escalate 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.

Leadership & Collaboration

• 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).

Why WSP? At WSP, you'll access global expertise, long-term career pathways, market-leading training, and the opportunity to directly influence environmental outcomes that truly matter. You'll be supported, challenged and empowered to make an impact.