Jacobs, a global titan in the realm of engineering, technical, and construction services, is revolutionising industry standards through its steadfast dedication to sustainability and inclusivity. With a workforce exceeding 55,000 individuals across more than 40 countries, Jacobs converts innovative concepts into practical solutions that benefit both society and the natural world. The company’s comprehensive approach, which combines environmental stewardship, state-of-the-art solutions, and a diverse, inclusive workplace, is setting new precedents within the industry.
Central to Jacobs’ sustainability initiatives is its Water & Environment group, a talented cohort of over 1,200 specialists primarily based in the United Kingdom, with a presence in Ireland, Poland, Germany, France, Italy, India, and the Middle East. This group’s primary objective is to provide clients with expert guidance on environmental management and sustainability, with a particular emphasis on low carbon initiatives, circular economies, and waste/resource management. Their endeavours are pivotal in cultivating thriving urban areas and resilient ecosystems.
“Our objective is to embed sustainability into every project we manage,” articulates Sarah Thompson, a sustainability manager at Jacobs. “We are not merely ticking boxes; we are striving to make a substantive impact.”
The responsibilities within Jacobs’ Water & Environment group encompass supporting and leading sustainability management and certification on significant infrastructure projects. This includes the preparation of BREEAM pre-assessments, strategies, and reports, as well as evaluating evidence in accordance with BREEAM standards. These tasks are crucial in ensuring that sustainability is thoroughly integrated into large-scale construction programmes, thereby setting a high benchmark for sustainability practices within the industry.
Prospective candidates looking to join Jacobs in this capacity must possess specific qualifications and skills. An undergraduate or postgraduate degree in disciplines such as Sustainability, Environmental Management, or Engineering is requisite. Familiarity with BREEAM New Construction v6 or BREEAM Infrastructure New Construction v6 is essential, paired with experience in managing sustainability performance within substantial construction environments. Strong communication skills are also indispensable for effective collaboration with a diverse array of stakeholders and for driving sustainable outcomes.
Inclusivity forms another cornerstone of Jacobs’ corporate ethos. The company collaborates with VERCIDA to attract and retain a diverse talent pool and is recognised as a Disability Confident employer, guaranteeing that all disabled applicants meeting the minimum criteria are granted an interview. Jacobs’ Global Employee Networks, which encompass various facets of inclusion from gender identity to mental health, strive to cultivate a workplace where all individuals can flourish.
“At Jacobs, we hold the conviction that diversity fuels innovation. Our inclusive culture enables us to connect and create in ways that would be unattainable in a homogeneous setting,” states Mike Williams, Director of Human Resources.
The extensive benefits package available to Jacobs employees underscores the company’s commitment to their well-being. In the United Kingdom, employees benefit from up to a 10% company contribution towards their pension, reimbursement for professional development, and support for local communities through the Collectively programme. They also enjoy the flexibility to buy or sell annual leave, access to wellbeing support and resources, and enhanced parental leave and fertility healthcare via Carrot. The Bridge the Gap programme further assists working parents throughout their journey of becoming parents.
“We recognise that our employees have lives beyond work. Hence, we offer flexible working patterns, including hybrid and part-time roles, to help them maintain a healthy work-life balance,” explains Laura Brown, Head of Employee Wellbeing.
Jacobs’ workplace culture is anchored on the principles of safety, integrity, inclusion, and diversity. The company champions the importance of positive mental health and fostering a sense of belonging for all employees. Its diverse range of Global Employee Networks, such as ACE, Careers, Enlace, Harambee, OneWorld, Prism, Vetnet, and Women’s, ensure that everyone can bring their authentic selves to work.
“We are devoted to creating an environment where everyone feels valued and included,” remarks CEO Steve Demetriou. “Our diverse workforce is our greatest asset, and we are committed to supporting them in every possible manner.”
Jacobs’ dedication to sustainability and inclusivity transcends mere business strategy; it represents a moral imperative that underpins all their operations. The company’s global reach enables it to leverage its expertise and resources to effect meaningful change. The Water & Environment group’s advisory role on low carbon and circular economies exemplifies this commitment. By seamlessly integrating sustainability into their projects, Jacobs is setting a formidable standard for the industry.
Looking forward, Jacobs’ focus on sustainability and inclusivity is poised to catalyse further growth and innovation. As environmental concerns become increasingly urgent, the demand for sustainable solutions is set to rise. Jacobs’ profound expertise positions them favourably to lead the charge in addressing these challenges.
Furthermore, as technology advances, Jacobs is well-placed to incorporate cutting-edge tools and methodologies into their sustainability practices. Innovations in artificial intelligence, data analytics, and digital twin technologies hold the potential to offer novel ways to enhance sustainability performance and project outcomes, pushing the boundaries of what is achievable.
In essence, Jacobs exemplifies a company that is not merely keeping pace with the future but is actively shaping it. Their unwavering commitment to sustainability and inclusivity distinguishes them, and their progressive approach ensures they remain at the forefront of their field. By fostering an inclusive culture and championing sustainable practices, Jacobs is paving the way for a brighter, more resilient future.
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