RSK Group is seeking a Senior Ecologist to lead and expand our delivery of high-quality ecological and habitat services across the water sector. This is a full-time, permanent role based in the Midlands, North of England or South East, with flexible hybrid or remote working options available.
As a Senior Ecologist, you will have strong technical ecology credentials, experience in water-linked infrastructure or conservation projects, and a passion for delivering pragmatic, value-driven solutions in complex environments. You will also take the lead on major projects, manage ecological inputs into freshwater and terrestrial schemes, and contribute to the strategic growth of SES’s Midlands ecology team.
Responsibilities
* Manage and oversee ecological surveys, impact assessments, and mitigation strategies for major water-related and terrestrial infrastructure projects.
* Lead UKHab, BNG, and protected species assessments for pipeline routes, reservoir works, nature-based solutions, and mine water remediation.
* Deliver high-quality outputs aligned with client objectives and regulatory compliance.
Client Engagement & Work Winning
* Build trusted relationships with clients across the water, utilities, and environmental sectors.
* Identify opportunities to grow our presence in aquatic ecology, river restoration, and biodiversity net gain delivery.
* Prepare tenders and contribute to framework bids across sectors.
Team Mentoring & Development
* Support and mentor junior ecologists and field survey teams across the Midlands and North.
* Help embed SES’s high standards of data integrity, health and safety, and ecological best practice.
Technical and Strategic Contribution
* Provide senior oversight on complex ecological scopes, bringing a pragmatic, solution-led approach to risk and mitigation.
* Contribute to internal knowledge sharing and represent SES within professional networks and industry forums.
* Promote innovation in data collection, remote survey methods, and GIS-based habitat mapping across water environments.
Requirements
Ideally you will have a minimum of 5 years’ consultancy experience with significant field and project management skills. You will also have demonstrable leadership in delivering ecology services on water, wetland, or aquatic habitat projects.
* A degree (or higher) in ecology or a related field.
* FISC Level 4 or equivalent botanical ID experience strongly desirable or experienced with protected species.
A full UK driving license and willingness to travel to field locations would be required for this role.
What We Offer
* Competitive salary of between £30,000 - £40,000+ based on experience and qualifications.
* Birthday Leave: Enjoy a day off to celebrate your birthday.
* Life Assurance: Benefit from our life assurance plan to provide peace of mind.
* Pension Contributions: Receive contributions to your pension plan to support your future.
* Generous Holiday Allowance: Start with 20 days of holiday (plus bank holidays), increasing by 1 day per year up to a maximum of 28 days.
* Private Medical Insurance: Access private medical insurance to take care of your health.
* Flexible Benefits Programme: Tailor your benefits with options to buy additional holidays, health cash plans, and discounted gym memberships, allowing you to choose what suits you best.
* Targeted CPD plan and rapid progression for ambitious candidates.
RSK Group is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
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