Principal Geo-Environmental Engineer

This role outlines the expectations, core responsibilities, skills, knowledge, qualifications, and experience required of a Principal Consultant within a geoenvironmental team.

Reporting to senior leadership within the operations and divisional structure, key responsibilities include:

• Managing and developing relationships with key clients and stakeholders, acting as a primary point of contact.

• Demonstrating a strong understanding of geotechnical, human health, and brownfield risks, and the integration of geotechnical and environmental solutions.

• Leading and delivering all stages of geoenvironmental projects, including:

  • Coordinating technical and financial inputs for proposals and tenders
  • Managing internal resources (office and site-based) and subcontractors
  • Overseeing project finances throughout the lifecycle
  • Planning and supervising ground investigations and monitoring

• Upholding high standards of health, safety, and environmental compliance, including:

  • Preparing and reviewing Construction Phase Plans and RAMS
  • Monitoring site works to ensure adherence to safety protocols and best practice

• Producing and reviewing technical reports, including Phase 1, 2, and 3 risk assessments

• Designing, managing, and validating remediation strategies, including supervision and verification

• Liaising with regulators and local authorities

• Ensuring timely delivery of projects and attending client, site, and design meetings

• Completing risk assessments including Human Health, Controlled Waters (GQRA/DQRA), and ground gas risk assessments

• Using appropriate software and guidance to interpret data and inform project outcomes

• Producing and reviewing high-quality geoenvironmental reports tailored to client needs

• Mentoring and supporting junior team members, including progression toward professional accreditation

• Providing technical leadership across contaminated land, geotechnical engineering, and environmental risk management

• Supporting business development activities, identifying opportunities for growth, and strengthening client relationships

• Representing the business at meetings, industry events, and professional forums

• Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to deliver integrated project solutions

• Extensive experience in geoenvironmental consultancy, including project and client management

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with clients, regulators, and colleagues

• Proven track record of delivering projects on time and within budget

• In-depth knowledge of contaminated land and geotechnical risk assessment

• Strong understanding of relevant legislation, British Standards, and industry guidance

• Demonstrated experience in designing and managing complex ground investigations and remediation projects through to validation

• Ability to analyse complex problems and develop innovative solutions

• Strong organisational, time management, and decision-making skills

• Experience in managing teams, workloads, and client expectations

• Commitment to maintaining high standards of quality, safety, and compliance

• Proactive approach to continuous professional development and staying up to date with industry trends

• Approximately 10+ years' experience in geoenvironmental consultancy
• Degree (BSc or MSc) in Geology, Earth Sciences, Environmental Science, or related discipline
• Chartered status (e.g., with the Geological Society or equivalent)
• Strong knowledge of UK and EU regulations and standards
• Good understanding of geotechnical engineering principles
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including report writing