Environmental Advisor

Closing Date

2026-10-02

Job Title: Environmental Advisor

Location: Falmer, East Sussex (Hybrid, 2 days pw) – occasional travel to offices and project sites across the Southern Water Network as required

Contract Type: Permanent

Hours: 37, Monday to Friday

Salary: up to £45,000; depending on skills and experience

There has never been a more important time to join Southern Water. We are delivering one of the most ambitious capital investment programmes in the industry, focused on improving environmental performance, service resilience and long‑term affordability for customers.

About the role

As an Environmental Advisor, you’ll play a key role in managing environmental risk at project level, supporting the design, maintenance and construction of a diverse portfolio of infrastructure projects.  Working within the Enabling Team in Engineering Technical Services (ETS), you’ll provide expert environmental guidance from early design through to construction completion, advising on all environmental topic areas with the support from technical specialists. This role is not suitable for those with a sustainability or carbon career focus. 

You will help the project team navigate environmental legislation and regulation, deliver practical mitigation solutions and identify opportunities to enhance both the built and natural environment.  In addition to project support, you’ll also provide environmental advice to the wider business as required—making this a varied, visible and impactful role.

What you will be responsible for

• Undertaking environmental assessments across a range of projects.
• Producing clear, accurate reports, including well‑reasoned conclusions supported by evidence.
• With support from senior colleagues, solving complex environmental challenges and developing appropriate mitigation strategies.
• Actively managing your own continuing professional development, with guidance from your line manager.

What you’ll bring to the role

We're looking for someone who combines environmental knowledge with excellent communication and stakeholder management skills but most importantly, a deep passion for the environment.

• Degree qualified in Environmental Science, Environmental Management, Geography, Ecology, Environmental Engineering or a related environmental discipline.
• A postgraduate qualification and/or membership of a relevant professional body (e.g. ISEP/CIWEM) would be advantageous.
• 4 or more years’ experience in an environmental assessment role.
• Strong organisational, written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work on own initiative on technical matters.
• Have technical skill in relevant specialist fields, and/or in engaging and managing specialists undertaking relevant studies, e.g. landscape, noise, odour assessment, water/air quality, waste, nuisance, planning etc..
• Experience of being part of a team of environmental scientists and specialists in preparing environmental appraisals and also preferably Environmental Impact Assessments.
• Build key relationships with Local Authorities, contractors, consultants, Enabling Team – environmental advisors, ecologists, planners, design engineers, project management, Strategy Leads.
• A solid understanding of UK environmental legislation, policy and guidance.
• Experience working with environmental specialists or contributing to environmental appraisals.

Southern Water is at the forefront of transforming Britain’s water industry, investing significantly to enhance resilience, sustainability, and service excellence. With £7.8bn planned investment for 2025-30, this is an unparalleled opportunity to join a business committed to delivering a generational shift in the way water services are managed.

You will be joining at a time of significant change, working alongside a highly skilled leadership team with a clear vision for the future. We offer an environment where senior professionals can make a meaningful impact, influence major strategic decisions, and drive long-term value creation.

"At Southern Water, we believe diverse perspectives drive innovation. If you’re passionate about making a positive impact and think you can bring value to our team, we’d love to hear from you—even if you don’t tick every box. Your unique skills and experiences could be exactly what we need."

If this role isn’t quite what you’re looking for but are keen to be contacted about opportunities at Southern Water, you can register your details here: Introduce Yourself (myworkdaysite.com- Introduce Yourself)

Our Commitment to Diversity

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. We do not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, or any other protected characteristic. If you need reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.

Additional information 

In line with Southern Water’s security requirements, successful candidates will be required to provide evidence of their identity, eligibility to work in the UK, criminal record check (DBS) and verification of their employment and/or education history for the past three years.  

Appointment to this role is subject to the successful completion of all preemployment checks, including security vetting.  

Please note that if a candidate does not meet the required security standards or fails to pass the vetting process, Southern Water reserves the right to withdraw the offer of employment. Some positions may also require higher levels of security vetting, which may involve providing additional documentation. 

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