We are seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable Invasive Non-Native Species (INNS)/Biosecurity Officer to join our central Biodiversity team. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in reducing the introduction and spread of both terrestrial and aquatic INNS across our catchment. This will be achieved through collaborative work with our operations teams and external stakeholders to manage and mitigate key risks.
What you’ll be doing as a Biosecurity & INNS Officer
- Formulate an implementation plan for the successful delivery of the recommendations outlined in the Thames Water company-wide INNS plan.
- Monitor and report on the effectiveness of current INNS management programs.
- Surveying and mapping of INNS on our operational sites.
- Working with grounds maintenance contractors and framework contractors to efficiently control and eradicate priority INNS.
- Working with internal Thames Water teams to deliver the obligations in the AMP 8 Water Industry National Environment Programme (WINEP) programme and update the Environment Agency on progress.
- Providing or organising technical advice to the business on INNS management.
- Ensure consistent biosecurity processes on a company-wide basis.
- Work alongside teams in Operations to deliver technologically robust and proven solutions, such as wash-down stations for boats and fishing equipment, that will meet the regulatory requirements.
- Work closely with the Environmental Engagement team, who lead on river catchment strategies, the catchment initiatives programme and environmental partnerships, to partake in collaborative projects.
- Organising volunteering events for Thames Water employees, as part of Invasive Non-Native Species week.
- Presence on river catchment groups and Local Nature Recovery Strategy Groups, where appropriate.
- Represent Thames Water at external working groups regarding INNS, such as the Water Industry Forum, Water UK INNS network and the Non-Native Species Secretariat.
- We work closely alongside our recreational partners, such as sailing and fishing clubs, to embed good security practices and undertake spot checks throughout the year.
Base location: Reading - Clearwater Court - RG1 8DB
Working hours: 36 hours per week
Necessary requirements for the role: Valid UK driving license and willingness to travel the full Thames Water region
What you should bring to the role
- Experience in delivering or organising terrestrial and aquatic Invasive Non-Native Species management.
- Project management experience – tender process through to delivery, including the management of budgets.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal skills and extensive stakeholder engagement experience.
- Identification of common terrestrial and aquatic Invasive Non-Native Species.
- Be fully competent at using the appropriate company IT systems, Office software and GIS.
- Valid UK driving license and willingness to travel the full Thames Water region.
- A degree in Environmental Science, Ecology, Biology, or a related field is desirable.
What’s in it for you?
- Competitive salary up to £50,000 per annum depending on experience.
- Annual Leave - 26 days holiday per year, increasing to 30 with the length of service. (plus bank holidays)
- Car Allowance
- Generous Pension Scheme through AON
- Access to lots of benefits to help you take care of you and your family’s health and wellbeing, and your finances – from annual health MOTs and access to physiotherapy and counselling, to Cycle to Work schemes, shopping vouchers and life assurance.
Find out more about our benefits and perks
Who are we?
We’re the UK’s largest water and wastewater company, with more than 16 million customers relying on us every day to supply water for their taps and toilets. We want to build a better future for all, helping our customers, communities, people, and the planet to thrive. It’s a big job and we’ve got a long way to go, so we need help from passionate and skilled people, committed to making a difference and getting us to where we want to be in the years and decades to come.
Learn more about our purpose and values
Working at Thames Water
Thames Water is a unique, rewarding, and diverse place to work, where every day you can make a difference, yet no day is the same. As part of our family, you’ll enjoy fast-tracked career opportunities, flexible working arrangements and excellent benefits.
Whether you’re interested in a role in one of our call centres or science labs, we’re looking for people like you with real passion and a burning desire to make things better.
So, if you’re looking for a sustainable and successful career where you can make a daily difference to millions of people’s lives while helping to protect the world of water for future generations, we’ll be here to support you every step of the way. Together, we can build a better future for our customers, our region and our planet.
Real purpose, real support, real opportunities. Come and join the Thames Water family. Why choose us? Learn more.
Our overarching aim is to ensure that Thames Water is a great, diverse, and inclusive place to work. We welcome applications from everyone and offer extra support for those who need it throughout the recruitment process. Our aim is to remove any real or perceived barriers to success, so if you need assistance, we’re here to help and support.
When a crisis happens, we all rally around to support our customers. As part of Team Thames, you’ll have the opportunity to sign up to support our customers on the frontline as an ambassador. Full training will be given for what is undoubtedly an incredibly rewarding experience. It’s also a great opportunity to learn more about our business and meet colleagues.
Disclaimer: Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we may close the advertisement earlier than the advertised date. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
