Principal Ecologist
We are currently looking for a Principal Ecologist to join an established Environmental Consultancy team, supporting the delivery of ecology, infrastructure and environmental projects across the Midlands.
This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced ecology professional who wants to play a key role in delivering high-quality consultancy work, supporting local communities, and contributing to sustainable design, transport and infrastructure schemes.
The role would suit someone who enjoys taking ownership of complex projects, managing team capacity, providing technical leadership and helping to shape the continued growth of an ecology service.
What you will be doing:
You will be responsible for managing resources and workload across the ecology team to ensure successful delivery of the team’s work programme. You will oversee the provision of ecological expertise across a range of projects, including complex or significant schemes, ensuring work is delivered to the required quality, programme and financial targets.
You will provide expert ecological input throughout the planning process, which may include supporting inquiries as an expert witness where required. You will advise colleagues, clients and third parties on ecological matters to ensure compliance with relevant legislation, policy and project requirements.
The role will also involve identifying opportunities to develop and grow the ecology service, supporting wider business objectives. You will lead, coach and develop team members, helping them achieve their potential while ensuring they work in line with internal standards, statutory responsibilities, policies and procedures.
What we are looking for:
The successful candidate will have a relevant degree and chartership, or eligibility for chartership, with a professional institute, or equivalent consultancy experience. Full CIEEM membership and a commitment to ongoing CPD are also expected.
You will bring extensive post-qualification experience in ecological survey and assessment, environmental statement chapter preparation, mitigation design and delivery, including Ecological Clerk of Works duties. A Level 1 Natural England Bat Licence is required, along with at least one other protected species licence.
You will have strong knowledge of UK and European ecological legislation, policy and guidance, including Habitats Regulations Assessment and Biodiversity Net Gain. You should also be confident leading and prioritising a team, making sound decisions, and delivering against operational and commercial objectives.
Strong communication and stakeholder management skills are essential, with the ability to influence colleagues, senior leaders and clients. You will also need strong ICT skills, including experience with specialist software such as GIS for ecological or landscape visual impact assessments.
A thorough understanding of health and safety, planning, technical legislation and best practice for ecological assessments is important, as is experience in financial monitoring and budget control across consultancy projects.