Sustainability Consultant / Senior Consultant

Would you like to join an organisation taking real action for people and the environment?

PECT is an independent charity creating sustainable places by supporting the reduction of resource use, enhancing the natural environment, educating on the changes needed and improving the health and wellbeing of communities that we work with.

Based at the entrance to a beautiful country park on the outskirts of Peterborough, PECT offers a dynamic and enjoyable working environment. Our impact is tangible, and our work is guided by strong values centred on our team, partners, and the communities we work with:

• People – A vibrant, committed team working towards sustainability.
• Change – Creating sustainable, better places for people and the environment.
• Expertise – Leveraging knowledge and experience to deliver meaningful impact.
• Together – Collaborating to create positive change.

Following an internal promotion and the ongoing growth of Investors in the Environment (iiE) we are looking for up to two proactive individuals to join our team. This position is ideal for someone with a background in environmental consultancy or other environmentally focused business support role who is eager to apply their skills in a role that offers significant impact. 

Purpose of role:

iiE is a national environmental accreditation scheme designed to help businesses reduce their impact on the environment through practical, engaging measures. iiE membership includes support for businesses to adopt a robust environmental policy, use resources efficiently, create targets and actions to support wider sustainability improvements, and get recognised for their successes. 

The successful applicant(s) will provide high-quality environmental management support to members of the iiE scheme and complete accreditation audits. The role involves working directly with members to guide them on their sustainability journey, helping them to understand their environmental impact and to take actionable steps to reduce it. The successful candidate(s) will drive significant improvements in environmental performance for our clients, leading to lower carbon footprints, cost savings, and enhanced reputational benefits. 

Employer: PECT

Based: This position will be based at PECT’s offices: Ham Lane House, Ham Lane, Peterborough PE2 5UU. PECT offers hybrid working and staff are currently required to be in the office a minimum of two days a week.

Salary: £27,000–35,000 (depending on experience)

Interview Date: Ongoing – PECT will shortlist suitable candidates for interview on an ongoing basis until the position is filled

Start Date: ASAP

Hours/Week: 37 hours (although part time hours will be considered)

Work outside normal hours: Occasional evening and weekend work may be required, typically for events or training

Reports to: Head of Sustainability

Key responsibilities:

• Provide regular telephone and video call support on Environmental Management Systems (EMS) development aligned with iiE criteria.
• Conduct annual iiE audits, including site visits, and produce detailed accreditation reports.
• Assist in planning and delivering iiE member events.
• Support iiE marketing campaigns by contributing valuable content for newsletters, e-shots, and the website.
• Maintain accurate data in the project CRM system.
• Execute day-to-day project administration tasks using Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Ensure timely, accurate, and compliant completion of all processes in line with quality procedures.
• Seek opportunities to develop and extend existing work and income streams through project development, fundraising, and partnership working.
• Continuously improve personal knowledge of Environmental Management and Sustainability working towards further professional qualifications such as Associate membership with IEMA.
• Any other reasonable tasks requested by the line manager.

Person specification

We value diversity and inclusion, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences. You don’t have to meet all the criteria listed below to apply. If you have the skills and passion for this role, we would love to hear from you.

Essential criteria:

• 1-3 years of experience in a similar role with a well-developed knowledge of resource efficiency and how organisations can enhance their environmental performance. 
• A detailed knowledge and understanding of Environmental Management Systems 
• Experience in writing audit reports  
• Passionate and committed to providing a professional, quality service and excellent customer care. 
• Excellent communication (oral and written) and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships at all levels. 
• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to work effectively and independently and use own initiative.  
• Commitment to continuous professional development and willingness to learn and undertake relevant training. 
• IT literate, particularly in Microsoft Office Software. 
• Ability to travel to remote locations both locally and outside the East region. 

Desirable:

• A degree or equivalent qualification in an environmental, business, or science-related discipline. 
• Professional accreditation such as AIEMA, PIEMA. 
• Experience in maintaining and developing administrative systems. 
• Enthusiasm for and understanding of environmental and sustainable development issues, including the UN Sustainable Development Goals. 

Right to work in the UK

We are not a home office sponsored organisation and are not able to offer employment unless the person already has the right to work in the UK via a passport or a visa that they have already obtained.   We are not able to sponsor individuals.

All candidates must ensure they indicate in their CV or covering letter that they have the right to work in the UK.

Variation Clause:

This is a description of the job, as it is constituted at the date shown. It is the practice of the Trust periodically to examine job descriptions, update them and ensure that they relate to the job performed, or to incorporate any proposed changes. The appropriate Manager in consultation with the post holder will conduct this procedure.

In these circumstances it will be the aim to reach agreement on reasonable changes, but if agreement is not possible management reserves the right to make changes to your job description following consultation.

The Job Description was compiled by Antony Gough on 10th September 2024. Amended 19th September 2024.