Senior Soil Science Consultant​/Principal Soil Science Consultant

Senior Soil Science Consultant / Principal Soil Science Consultant

We’re seeking an experienced soil scientist to support the growth of WSP’s Soil team within the Ground & Water service line of the Earth & Environment business. The role involves working on infrastructure and development projects across sectors, with emphasis on soil assessments, environmental reporting, and collaboration with related teams.

• Lead and support fieldwork/site visits and produce written reports for Agricultural Land Classification (ALC), Soil Resource Assessment, and tailored environmental statements.
• Manage data to support technical reporting, provide advice to colleagues, and liaise with clients, landowners, contractors, statutory authorities and third parties.
• Prepare a range of soil and agricultural assessments in support of development consent orders (DCOs), EIAs, and construction projects; manage and coordinate survey work.
• Support project delivery across the UK, assist in the preparation of fee proposals, business development, and work-winning duties.
• Lead or mentor junior staff and share knowledge with other environmental disciplines; contribute to the growth of the soil team and embedding soil understanding across the business.
• Support the Ground & Water team with delivery at various project stages and ensure quality assurance on surveys.

• Degree level qualification in Soil Science, or related field (environmental science, physical geology) 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 relevant competency standards.
• Strong grounding in health and safety procedures (including CDM) for site work.
• Working knowledge of EIA methodology; ability to assist in the preparation of Environmental Statements is desirable but not essential.
• Experience liaising with clients, contractors, planning authorities and stakeholders; excellent communication and report-writing skills.
• Registered with a relevant professional body (e.g., British Society of Soil Science) and ideally chartered.
• Current knowledge of UK environmental legislation and its implications for construction on agricultural land; understanding of UK agricultural practice and business issues.
• Team player with ownership of project delivery; working knowledge of GIS is desirable; full driving licence and willingness to work outdoors.

• Flexible working arrangements, with a hybrid policy allowing some home-based work and travel to offices as needed.
• Develop ment opportunities through training, mentoring, and Chartership support.
• Inclusive culture with employee resource groups;
  Thrive health and wellbeing program and Virtual GP access.
• Flexible benefits including gym membership support and menopause care; additional leave and bank holiday flexibility.

A Little More About Your Role:
The role is largely office-based with periods on-site; you will be part of the Ground & Water team and collaborate with Nature Advisory and Landscape teams on related projects.

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