Environmental & Engineering Technician

Somerset Drainage Boards Consortium; Somerset Court; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional environmental organization is seeking a motivated Environmental and Engineering Technician in Somerset. You will be responsible for conducting fieldwork, monitoring water levels, and assisting with engineering design and environmental compliance. The ideal candidate will have a background in environmental science or engineering, with experience in data analysis and field surveys. This practical and hands-on role offers the opportunity to contribute to water management and conservation efforts.

Qualifications

• Experience with hydrological and environmental data collection and analysis.
• Knowledge of engineering and environmental compliance regulations.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Collect and record hydrological and environmental data.
• Assist with ecological surveys related to water management.
• Support the inspection and operation of water control structures.

Skills

Data analysis

Fieldwork experience

Knowledge of hydrology

Technical drawing preparation

Education

Degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, or related field

Tools

Survey Equipment

Telemetry systems

Job description

Overview

We are seeking a motivated Environmental and Engineering Technician to support the delivery of water level management and environmental monitoring across Somerset’s unique landscape, including the Somerset Levels and Moors. The role involves carrying out fieldwork, monitoring hydrological conditions, maintaining assets, assisting the Engineering Team with schemes and project delivery and supporting flood risk management and nature conservation activities.

This is a practical, hands-on role that contributes directly to protecting communities, delivering engineering solutions, enhancing biodiversity, and ensuring compliance with legislation and water level management plans.

The role will assist the SDBC Ecologist and Senior Engineer in undertaking environmental and engineering activities relating to water level management and will be Line-Managed on a day-to-day basis by the SDBC Ecologist, the Senior Engineer and the Engineering Team.

Key Responsibilities

Monitoring & Data Collection

• Collect, record, and analyse hydrological and environmental data (e.g., water levels, flows, rainfall, groundwater).
• Install and maintain water level monitoring equipment (telemetry), and manage and analyse data.
• Assist with ecological surveys related to water management (e.g. wetland habitats, water quality).

Engineering and Survey Work

• Site investigations and surveys including the use of Surveying Equipment
• Assist in the preparation of Engineering design drawings and contract documentation.
• Assist with Engineering on-site works including setting out and contractor supervision and record keeping.

Asset Management & Maintenance

• Support the inspection and operation and repair of water control structures (pumps, sluices, weirs, culverts, ditches).
• Carry out routine site checks to ensure infrastructure is functioning effectively and safely.
• Assist with small-scale works and contractor supervision when required.

Environmental Compliance & Support

• Ensure water level management practices comply with environmental regulations and best practice.
• Support the delivery of Water Level Management Plans (WLMPs), Internal Drainage Board (IDB) duties, and conservation objectives.
• Undertake EIA screening for schemes and other activities.
• Engage with landowners, farmers, and community groups on water management issues.

Reporting & Administration

• Maintain accurate records, maps, and databases of water levels, species records, site inspections, and maintenance activities.
• Assist in the administration of protected species and use of herbicide licencing.
• Advise colleagues on environmental and engineering matters.
• Assist in preparing reports, summaries, and technical information for internal and external stakeholders.
• Liaising with farmers and local communities on the environmental and engineering work of the Drainage Boards.
• To provide assist with other aspects of IDBs functions and responsibilities as required.