Principal Environmental Clerk of Works

About this role

WSP is one of the world’s leading engineering and environmental professional services firms. We are looking for a skilled and independent Principal Environmental Clerk of Works (EnvCoW) to join our Environmental Compliance team.

As a senior environmental compliance professional, you will act as an independent, impartial EnvCoW. You will provide transparent oversight of construction activities across complex infrastructure projects, monitor environmental performance, evaluate compliance with consents and legislation, and help ensure that environmental commitments are upheld.

• Deliver independent, evidence‑based environmental compliance monitoring.
• Safeguard adherence to planning conditions, licences, permits and legislation.
• Identify, record and elevate risks, issues and non‑compliances.
• Support strong environmental governance across project teams.
• 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 Env Co Ws  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 new environmental compliance work.
• Support CPD, training and development of junior team members.

• Degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Management, Ecology or a 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).
• 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.

WSP offers global expertise, long‑term career pathways, market‑leading training, a hybrid working policy (two days of work from home per week), flexible arrangements, and support for health and wellbeing.

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.