01st December, 2025
Principal Sustainability Consultant
Location: Cardiff (South West Region)
Contract: Full-time
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced and forward-thinking Principal Sustainability Consultant to join a leading UK engineering and sustainability consultancy.
This role is based in Cardiff and forms part of a nationwide sustainability team renowned for delivering innovative, human-centred and environmentally responsible design solutions.
About the Role:
As a key member of the sustainability discipline, you will take a leading role in shaping sustainable outcomes across a diverse range of medium to large-scale projects. Your work will span all RIBA stages and will involve close collaboration with clients, design teams and internal specialists.
In this varied and influential position, you will:
- Lead sustainability workstreams and act as Project Lead on significant projects.
- Develop and coordinate resource and project plans.
- Facilitate workshops and present complex information clearly and confidently.
- Delegate, manage and review work delivered by colleagues.
- Undertake and support a wide range of detailed analyses, including:
- Building performance and energy modelling (e.g. Part L, Part O, thermal comfort).
- Environmental and wellbeing certifications such as BREEAM, HQM and WELL.
- Energy strategies for planning and design.
- Whole life carbon assessments and net zero strategies.
- Contribute to internal technical excellence initiatives.
- Mentor and support junior team members with professional development.
This is a rare chance not only to advance your own career, but also to influence the industry’s approach to sustainability on a broader scale.
What We’re Looking For:You will bring expertise in sustainability consultancy and a passion for driving positive environmental outcomes.
While not all competencies are required, applicants should have strong capabilities in several of the following areas:
Core Competencies: - Advanced building performance and energy consultancy, including:
- Part L assessments (e.g., Elmhurst, IES)
- Part O assessments
- Thermal comfort analysis
- Proven experience in project leadership and resource planning.
- Track record in mentoring junior team members.
- Experience delivering BREEAM, Home Quality Mark, WELL or similar assessments.
- Knowledge of whole life carbon assessment tools (such as OneClick LCA).
- Experience supporting successful planning applications and working with local authorities.
Advantageous Competencies: - Operational energy assessment (e.g., TM54, NABERS UK, PHPP).
- Development of holistic sustainability strategies or charters.
- Environmental impact assessment focused on GHG emissions and climate adaptation.
- Circular economy statements.
- Fee proposal development.
- Line management experience.
About You: - Experienced at Principal level within sustainability consultancy.
- Degree-qualified in a relevant field, with professional registration; working towards Chartership (or Chartered status) is advantageous.
- Confident in leading design team workshops and engaging stakeholders.
- Passionate about sustainability and motivated to work in a dynamic, collaborative environment.
- Strong communicator with excellent organisational and problem-solving skills.
What’s on Offer:You will join a supportive and progressive consultancy that values individuality, wellbeing and continuous development. Expect access to:
- Structured career pathways.
- Professional and technical development programmes.
- Inclusive networks, social and industry engagement opportunities.
- A comprehensive benefits package, including private medical cover, electric vehicle schemes, stock options and generous annual leave.
- A 9-day fortnight working pattern designed to support work–life balance.
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