Sustainability Manager

Go Construct; Peterborough; On-site; GBP 29,000 - 86,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction consultancy in the United Kingdom seeks a Sustainability Manager to oversee environmental and sustainability issues in construction projects. The ideal candidate will have a BSc degree in Environmental sciences or related fields, skills in renewable energy assessments, and experience with BREEAM or LEED protocols. The role offers a salary ranging from £29,000 to £86,000 based on experience and location, with opportunities for advancement in an industry that values ambition and dedication.

Qualifications

• A university degree or equivalent in relevant fields is necessary.
• Some positions prefer postgraduate qualifications.
• Volunteering or work experience in relevant fields is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Undertake BREEAM and LEED assessments.
• Conduct site assessments and produce detailed reports.
• Initiate renewable energy assessments.

Skills

Strong maths and analytical thinking

Knowledge of geography

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Attention to detail

Ambition and a desire to succeed

Education

BSc honours degree in Environmental sciences, Environmental studies, Surveying, Engineering, or Construction

Postgraduate qualification in a related subject (some employers may require)

CSCS card (may be needed)

Job description

What does a sustainability manager do?

As a sustainability manager, you will be responsible for managing and overseeing environmental and sustainability issues surrounding construction projects.

Responsibilities

• Undertake Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Methodology (BREEAM) and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) assessments.
• Complete sustainability plans.
• Conduct site assessments and produce reports on findings.
• Initiate renewable energy assessments.
• Advise on the latest low‑ or zero‑carbon technologies.
• Organise and chair meetings.
• Communicate plans to project teams and senior staff.

How to become a sustainability manager

There are several routes to becoming a sustainability manager. For this position you will usually be expected to have a university degree, however you could also complete a college course, an apprenticeship, or apply directly to an employer if you have relevant experience. You should explore these routes to find out which is the right one for you. Although some options have certain qualification requirements, many employers are more interested in people who are enthusiastic, willing to learn and able to follow instructions. You may need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card to work on a construction site.

University

• Most sustainability manager roles will require a BSc honours degree or equivalent.
• Some employers may also ask for a postgraduate qualification in a related subject.

College / Training Provider

• Complete a college course in engineering, construction or sustainability.
• Entries generally require a minimum of 4–5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) or equivalent.

Apprenticeship

• Complete an environmental practitioner degree apprenticeship, typically requiring 4–5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 and A levels or equivalent.
• You will be employed by the company and expected to work a minimum of 30 hours a week, with time split between on‑the‑job experience and work at a college or training provider.

Work Experience

• Experience in logistics, low‑ or zero‑carbon technology, or building regulations can help secure a role, even without formal qualifications.
• Work experience or volunteering is valuable; employers appreciate it on a CV.
• Consider volunteering for an environmental charity, internships, or industry‑bundled qualifications.

Skills

• Strong maths and analytical thinking.
• Knowledge of geography.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Attention to detail.
• Ambition and a desire to succeed.

Qualifications

• BSc honours degree (or equivalent) in Environmental sciences, Environmental studies, Surveying, Engineering, or Construction.
• Some employers may require IEMA Membership.

Salary

• Newly trained sustainability managers can start at £29,000.
• With experience, sustainability managers can earn up to £86,000* (subject to location, employer, level of responsibility, overtime, and completed industry‑recognised training).
• Salaries have been compiled from multiple industry sources.