Principal Environmental Clerk of Works

Scotland – Field Based | Full‑Time | Senior Role

At WSP, your future has no limits. Here, you’ll be part of a global community of experts shaping some of the most transformative projects across the UK. You’ll work in a culture that champions curiosity, celebrates diverse perspectives, and empowers you to build a career as unique as you are.

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 combine deep local expertise with worldwide knowledge to deliver sustainable, technically robust outcomes across property and buildings, transport and infrastructure, earth and environment, industry, and energy.

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

The Role

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

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.