Application Guide

How to Apply for BNG Consultant

at AECOM

🏢 About AECOM

AECOM is a global leader in infrastructure consulting, committed to delivering a better world through sustainable solutions. Their focus on 'building sustainable legacies' aligns with the growing importance of biodiversity net gain in UK planning, making them an ideal place for ecologists passionate about integrating nature into development.

About This Role

As a BNG Consultant at AECOM, you will lead biodiversity net gain assessments for major infrastructure and development projects across the UK. Your work will directly influence how projects achieve 'no net loss' or 'net gain' for biodiversity, shaping sustainable outcomes that benefit both clients and the environment.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve reviewing habitat survey data for a new development, calculating BNG metrics using the DEFRA tool, and drafting a Habitat Management Plan. You could also join a virtual meeting with a local planning authority to discuss metric assumptions, then spend the afternoon preparing a bid for a large infrastructure project.

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🎯 Who AECOM Is Looking For

  • Proven experience delivering BNG assessments using the DEFRA metric and understanding of the Environment Act 2021 requirements.
  • Strong technical report writing skills, with ability to produce and review BNG feasibility reports, Habitat Management Plans, and Welsh NBB assessments.
  • Excellent stakeholder engagement skills, comfortable presenting to planning authorities, statutory bodies, and the public.
  • Knowledge of UK biodiversity legislation and planning policy, including local planning authority requirements for BNG.

📝 Tips for Applying to AECOM

1

Highlight specific BNG projects you've worked on, including the DEFRA metric scores and how you addressed habitat creation/enhancement.

2

Mention any experience with Welsh NBB assessments, as the job description specifically calls this out.

3

Demonstrate your bid-writing experience by describing how you've contributed to winning ecological contracts.

4

Tailor your CV to show remote working capability, as this role is fully remote – include examples of self-management and virtual collaboration.

5

Research AECOM's recent BNG projects (e.g., HS2, smart motorways) and mention them in your cover letter to show genuine interest.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Emphasize your hands-on experience with BNG metric calculations and report production for UK infrastructure projects.', 'Showcase your ability to liaise with planning authorities and statutory consultees (e.g., Natural England, NRW) to secure approvals.', 'Highlight any experience with Habitat Management Plans and long-term monitoring, as these are key deliverables.', "Express enthusiasm for AECOM's sustainability mission and how your skills can help build their BNG service line."]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Read AECOM's latest sustainability report and their approach to biodiversity net gain.
  • → Look up AECOM's involvement in major UK infrastructure projects (e.g., Lower Thames Crossing, Sizewell C) to understand the scale of their work.
  • → Review the Environment Act 2021 and local BNG requirements for key regions (e.g., England, Wales).
  • → Check AECOM's career page for any recent BNG-related news or thought leadership articles.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Walk me through a BNG assessment you led – from metric calculation to final report.
2 How do you handle disagreements with a client or planning authority over habitat condition scores?
3 Describe a time you contributed to a successful bid – what was your role and outcome?
4 What is your experience with the Welsh NBB framework and how does it differ from English BNG?
5 How do you stay updated on changes to UK biodiversity policy and the DEFRA metric?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic application without mentioning BNG or UK-specific legislation – this role is highly specialized.
  • Overlooking the Welsh NBB requirement – failing to address this could suggest lack of attention to detail.
  • Ignoring the remote aspect – not demonstrating remote work readiness or self-motivation can be a dealbreaker.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to AECOM!

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