Overview
We’re making a difference: Together, we can ensure that there is enough water for everyone, now and in the future. At Portsmouth Water, we’re looking for a motivated Environmental Assistant to support the delivery of our ambitious environmental commitments on the Havant Thicket Reservoir programme. This is an exciting opportunity to play a hands on role in one of the region’s most significant water infrastructure projects, helping to protect and enhance the natural environment while ensuring sustainable water supply for the future. As part of the HTR Environment Team, you’ll provide both technical and administrative support across a wide range of activities, from site-based monitoring and environmental data collection to reviewing documentation and supporting compliance with environmental legislation and permit conditions. You’ll also contribute to carbon reporting, ecological and water quality fieldwork, and help coordinate efforts between internal teams and external stakeholders.
What will you be doing?
* Review carbon data submitted by main contractors and identify gaps, inconsistencies, or required clarifications.
* Enter validated carbon data into the HTR carbon reporting tool and support monthly and quarterly reporting to internal stakeholders and regulators.
* Compile environmental performance data for inclusion in monthly reports to Portsmouth Water Board, Southern Water, and Ofwat.
* Carry out assurance site visits to contractors and subcontractors, inspecting compliance with environmental plans (e.g., CEMPs, water quality plans).
* Record observations and non-conformances, and report these to the Environment Manager.
* Support ecological field tasks under the direction of the HTR Ecology Manager, including water quality sampling, habitat monitoring, or survey preparation.
* Support HTR Ecology Manager with the implementation and establishment of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) projects.
* Maintain accurate field notes, photos, and evidence logs following each visit.
* Review environmental documents submitted by contractors and provide comments and recommendations to the Environment Manager.
* Support environmental audits by preparing checklists, collecting supporting evidence, and tracking follow-up actions.
* Monitor compliance with environmental permit conditions and assist the team in addressing corrective actions.
* Plan, schedule, and coordinate meetings, ensuring rooms, invitations, materials, and attendee communications are fully arranged.
* Record accurate minutes, track actions, and circulate post meeting documentation.
* Act as secretariat for Environment meetings, preparing agendas and supporting the chair with action management.
* Maintain well organised digital and physical environmental records.
* Represent the HTR Environment Team in routine internal and external communications.
* Assist in liaising with internal teams, contractors, clients, and stakeholders to communicate environmental requirements and best practice.
Qualifications and competencies
* Degree (or equivalent) in Environmental Science or related discipline.
* Graduate member of a professional body (ISEP, CIWEM, CIEEM or working towards).
* Excellent IT skills – competent and comfortable working with Microsoft Office applications.
* Ability to process and input carbon calculation and ecological data.
* Motivated to undertake environmental fieldwork, including water quality sampling and surveys.
* Confident to engage with environmental stakeholders at local levels.
* Self-motivated, focused, well-organised and able to work to deadlines.
* Attention to detail and competent filing and organisational skills.
* Full UK driving licence.
We recognise flexible working
We recognise people want to work in a variety of different ways, and we’re happy to consider flexible working arrangements. Please feel free to talk to us at interview about the flexibility you may be looking for.
Important notes
Please note, we may close this advert early if we receive a high volume of applications, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out. We’re committed to equality, diversity and inclusion, and we actively encourage applications from all sections of society. Please be aware, the Company has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK. Due to the high volume of applications we may receive, we’re unable to respond to every applicant individually. If your application is of interest, we’ll usually be in touch within 4 weeks of receiving it.
What can Portsmouth Water offer you?
At Portsmouth Water, we believe in rewarding our people. Here’s a taste of what’s waiting for you when you join the team:
* Holidays Made Better — 25 days of annual leave, plus bank holidays.
* A Pension That Works for You — generous pension scheme contributing up to 15%.
* Performance Pays Off — non-contractual bonus up to 6% of basic salary.
* Family Comes First — enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption leave and pay.
* Social Events — all expenses covered summer and winter events.
* Peace of Mind, Always — life assurance scheme (4x salary).
* Comprehensive Wellbeing Support — confidential mental health and wellbeing advice, and Virtual GP service.
* PW Perks — exclusive discounts and schemes (Electric Vehicle, Cycle to Work, Health Cash Plan, and more).
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