Role description
As a Principal Ecologist, you will join our team of over 50 ecologists, who have more than 30 years of experience undertaking ecological surveys and assessments, as well as the provision of advice on soil, land use, hydrological and sustainable drainage issues, arboriculture, ecosystem service, natural capital assessment, biodiversity strategies and metrics and cultural heritage. During this time, we have undertaken over 2,000 projects covering a wide range of environmental disciplines throughout the UK, in Europe and beyond, for public and private clients.
We are currently engaged on a variety of large and interesting projects, including Urban and Greenfield Residential Development, Highway and Rail Schemes, Power Stations, Electrical and Gas Infrastructure. Our clients include EDF Energy, Welsh Government, Transport for Wales, Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water, Natural Resources Wales, National Grid, the Environment Agency, Transport for London, Highways England, Network Rail, the Canal and River Trust, Housing Associations and various Local Authorities across the country. We also conduct international work via Environmental, Social and Health Impact Assessments and support our Natural Capital Community of Practice.
As part of the Environmental team, your work may involve protected species, pollution, surface water and materials management, air quality or noise, and you will operate in some of the world’s busiest and most beautiful locations.
Our commitment is to protect natural environments and water resources while supporting sustainable development. We recognize the accelerating impacts of climate change, urbanization, and biodiversity loss, and aim to mitigate these through responsible ecological practice.
Accountabilities
You will be responsible for the quality control, coordination and completion of assigned tasks and projects within the Business Unit or project team. You will lead and manage the delivery of a range of projects to meet time, budgetary and SHEQ targets, managing ecological aspects of the client relationship so that delivery exceeds client expectations. You will provide direction and technical advice, leading by example and mentoring junior staff.
Qualifications & Experience
* Detailed knowledge of ecological principles, biodiversity metrics, environmental and ecological impact assessment (EcIA) legislation, policy and guidance.
* In‑depth knowledge of particular plant or animal groups and appropriate field survey skills.
* Proven track record in writing and delivering Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs), Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments, Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIAs) and Ecology Chapters for Environmental Statements that have been successfully consented.
* Proven track record in writing project and/or plan‑level Habitat Regulation Assessments (HRAs).
* Excellent commercial and project management skills for a range of project sizes.
* Experience in bid production and client interaction.
* Ability to line‑manage and potentially lead a team.
* Hold survey and/or mitigation/conservation licences.
* Experience in designing and complying with biosecurity and health and safety protocols.
* Chartered Environmentalist or Ecologist (or demonstrably approaching Chartered).
* Full member of CIEEM.
* Willingness to travel when necessary.
Inclusion & Equality
We are committed to equality, diversity, inclusion and belonging. We aim to provide a workplace where everyone can bring their best self to work, and we hold ourselves accountable for our actions. Our workforce is diverse across age, disability, faith, gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity and more.
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