Application Guide

How to Apply for BNG Consultant

at AECOM

🏢 About AECOM

AECOM is a global infrastructure consulting firm committed to delivering a better world through sustainable solutions. Their focus on biodiversity net gain aligns with their mission to build legacies that benefit both people and the planet. Working here offers the chance to influence major UK infrastructure projects while being part of a team that values innovation and environmental stewardship.

About This Role

As a BNG Consultant, you will lead the delivery of biodiversity net gain assessments for diverse infrastructure and development projects across the UK. Your work will directly contribute to achieving net positive outcomes for nature, ensuring projects comply with emerging BNG legislation. This role is pivotal in shaping sustainable development and enhancing ecological value.

💡 A Day in the Life

Your day might start with a virtual meeting with the project team to review BNG targets for a new infrastructure scheme. You'll then spend time analyzing habitat data using GIS and the DEFRA metric, followed by drafting a BNG feasibility report. Later, you could join a call with a client to discuss offsetting options and finalize a Habitat Management Plan.

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🎯 Who AECOM Is Looking For

  • Experienced in delivering BNG inputs for projects, including feasibility reports, design stage assessments, and Habitat Management Plans.
  • Skilled in technically reviewing biodiversity assessments and ensuring compliance with UK BNG metrics and standards.
  • Excellent communicator capable of engaging clients, stakeholders, and regulators to build consensus on BNG strategies.
  • Familiar with digital biodiversity tools and keen to support their development for more efficient BNG delivery.

📝 Tips for Applying to AECOM

1

Highlight specific BNG projects you've worked on, including the metrics used (e.g., DEFRA metric 3.0) and outcomes achieved.

2

Demonstrate your ability to work remotely by mentioning past remote collaboration tools and self-management strategies.

3

Tailor your CV to show experience with UK infrastructure sectors like transport, energy, or housing.

4

Include examples of stakeholder engagement, such as negotiating BNG targets with local planning authorities.

5

Mention any familiarity with AECOM's digital tools or sustainability frameworks to show proactive research.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Emphasize your passion for biodiversity net gain and its role in sustainable infrastructure.', 'Showcase your technical expertise with BNG assessments and UK ecological regulations.', 'Highlight your collaborative approach and experience working with multidisciplinary teams.', "Express enthusiasm for AECOM's commitment to innovation and digital transformation in ecology."]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review AECOM's recent BNG projects and case studies on their website to understand their approach.
  • → Familiarize yourself with AECOM's digital ecology tools, such as their Biodiversity Net Gain Calculator.
  • → Understand the latest UK BNG policy updates, including the Environment Act 2021 and local authority requirements.
  • → Check AECOM's sustainability reports and commitments to net zero and nature positive goals.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Walk me through a BNG assessment you led from start to finish, including challenges and how you addressed them.
2 How do you ensure accuracy and consistency when using the DEFRA biodiversity metric?
3 Describe a time you had to communicate complex BNG requirements to a non-specialist stakeholder.
4 What digital tools have you used for biodiversity data management, and how could they be improved?
5 How would you approach a project where achieving 10% BNG is not feasible due to site constraints?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Avoid generic statements about ecology without specific BNG experience; focus on quantified outcomes.
  • Don't overlook the remote aspect—failing to mention how you stay productive and connected remotely can be a red flag.
  • Avoid being too technical without showing how you engage with clients and stakeholders; balance technical depth with communication skills.

📅 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!

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Good luck with your application to AECOM!

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