At the SKAO we are coordinating a global effort to deliver one of the largest science facilities on the planet. The SKAO telescopes will be next-generation instruments that will help to answer key questions in astrophysics, drive technological innovation and support human capital development.
More than a dozen partner countries and over a thousand scientists and engineers around the world are already on board, making the SKA project an international collaboration like no other, and one of the most ambitious science and engineering endeavours of the 21st century.
Headquartered in the UK, with telescope sites in Australia and South Africa, the SKAO will be one observatory operating two telescopes, an endeavour spanning three continents. Multinational by design, in early 2021 the SKAO became an intergovernmental organisation, one of only a select handful of science infrastructures to do so worldwide.
Our Global HQ is located near the buzzing city of Manchester at the historic Jodrell Bank Observatory, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Cheshire countryside. It is home to a rapidly expanding international team of more than a hundred, working in a highly collaborative and inclusive way, in coordination with SKAO teams in Australia and South Africa as part of a global astronomy and engineering community.
Being part of Team SKA means contributing to something extraordinary: a uniquely exciting project to advance human knowledge that will last for decades. In return, we offer a diverse multicultural working environment, 30 days annual leave plus public holidays, a generous pension scheme, visa and support with relocation (if applicable), regular social events, a family-friendly environment and much more. Come and join us!
This is an ideal role for a highly motivated and results orientated sustainability professional with proven leadership experience, exceptional communication skills and a proven track record of driving meaningful change in complex organisations.
The Role
The Sustainability Lead will play a pivotal role driving the development, execution and continuous improvement of the SKAO Sustainability Strategy. This role is critical in aligning the SKAO’s sustainability efforts with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) and Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) standards, and other key frameworks, while fostering a culture of environmental responsibility and social responsibility. This position requires a dedicated professional with a strong background in environmental science, sustainability practices, and regulatory compliance. As the lead and communicator of sustainability initiatives, the Sustainability Lead will provide clear direction and leadership across all organisational levels and locations, engaging stakeholders to embed sustainability into the organisation’s core operations, policies, and culture. The role requires a dynamic professional with deep expertise in environmental science, sustainability practices, and regulatory compliance, coupled with exceptional skills in influencing, collaboration, and change management.
This role will be based at the SKAO Global Headquarters at the iconic Jodrell Bank Observatory, Cheshire, UK.
SKAO is committed to providing an inclusive and flexible working environment, meeting the requests of our Colleagues whilst also fulfilling the needs and objectives of the Observatory.
This role requires the post holder to work across different time zones and, in line with SKAO policy, flexible working hours will be supported in agreement with the line manager.
Key Responsibilities, Accountabilities and Duties
- Develop, implement and lead the SKAO Sustainability Strategy and associated action plan(s) ensuring alignment with the SKAO Sustainability policies, strategic goals and global best practice..
- Conduct sustainability assessments and audits to identify opportunities to create and continuously improve sustainability practices.
- Analyse data and trends to provide recommendations for sustainable practices and technologies.
- Prepare detailed reports on sustainability metrics and performance for the Sustainability Steering Group.
- Ensure compliance with all relevant environmental regulations and industry standards.
- Monitor changes in legislation and industry standards and update organisational practices accordingly.
- Prepare and submit regulatory reports and documentation as required.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including regulatory bodies, industry partners and community organisations to advance the SKAO sustainability goals.
- Lead the provision of guidance and updates to the relevant bodies and senior leadership of the SKAO regarding progress, challenges and opportunities.
- Represent the organisation, as needed, at sustainability conferences, workshops, and industry events.
- Optimise resource usage, including energy, water, and materials, to reduce the environmental footprint.
- Manage sustainability-related budgets and resources efficiently.
- Identify and evaluate new technologies and practices that can enhance sustainability efforts.
- Foster a culture of continuous improvement in sustainability practices.
Mandatory Knowledge, Skills and Experience
- Proven track record in a sustainability role, successfully developing a sustainability strategy and plans to meet strategic objectives;
- Expertise in sustainability principles and practices, including reporting and disclosure requirements;
- Experience in regulatory compliance and knowledge of local, national, and international environmental regulations and guidelines
- Excellent organisational, analytical and problem-solving skills;
- Proficiency in sustainability assessment tools and software;
- Demonstrable experience of managing delivery sustainability projects;
- Exceptional skills in stakeholder engagement, communication and cross-functional collaboration, with the ability to engage and influence at all levels;
Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Experience
- Experience of working in an international, multi-sited organisation;
- Proven track record of successful sustainability enhancement in medium scale enterprises or larger,
- International Society of Sustainability Professionals Sustainability Excellence qualification or equivalent
- Degree in Environmental Science, Sustainability, Environmental Engineering, or a related field, and/or, professional qualification/certification in sustainability and/or relevant industry experience.
Equality Diversity and Inclusion Statement
SKA Observatory recognises that our diversity is a strength. We aim to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels they belong, and diverse perspectives and ideas thrive. As such, Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion are at the core of SKA Observatory’s agenda.
Our aim is to recruit and retain the most talented individuals, regardless of gender, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, nationality or background.
Women have traditionally been under-represented in the fields of science and engineering; SKA Observatory welcomes and encourages female applicants.
Where applicants with a disability need facilities or adjustments to enable them to participate in the recruitment process, these will be provided.
SKA Observatory welcome all candidates, especially those from member countries.
The “How to Apply” information contained within the SKA Observatory recruitment portal provides more detail regarding our application and selection approach.
