Principal Ecologist

Overview

In this role you drive ecological surveys and technical delivery across diverse projects, guiding quality and compliance from inception to handover. You collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to support planning, construction and long-term habitat management. You will lead complex studies, mentor colleagues and contribute to Waterman’s ecology service development. This position offers the opportunity to shape high-profile ecological outcomes within a respected consultancy.

Responsibilities

• Lead ecological surveys, assessments and technical delivery across a range of projects
• Provide technical leadership and quality assurance for PEAs, EcIA, HRA, BNG, protected species mitigation, Ecological Management Plans and EIA ecology chapters
• Act as technical lead on complex and high-profile projects, ensuring compliance with legislation, policy and best practice
• Manage multiple projects and teams, overseeing programmes, budgets, resources, risk and financial performance
• Coordinate multidisciplinary teams and specialist subcontractors to deliver projects safely, on time and within budget
• Build and maintain strong client relationships, acting as a key point of contact and identifying opportunities for further work
• Prepare fee proposals, tenders and framework submissions and contribute to wider business development
• Mentor and develop junior and senior ecologists, supporting technical development and career progression
• Contribute to technical standards, innovation and the continued development of Waterman’s ecology service

Key requirements

• Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, Biology or a related discipline
• Significant ecological consultancy experience across energy, water, transport, housing or infrastructure
• Strong technical knowledge of EcIA, BNG, Habitats Regulations, protected species legislation and planning/consenting processes
• Proven experience managing ecology projects from inception through to completion, including budgets and resources
• Strong client management and communication skills
• Experience mentoring and supporting junior colleagues
• MCIEEM or eligibility for full CIEEM membership
• Full UK driving licence
• Specialist expertise demonstrated through relevant survey or mitigation licences, botanical expertise, BNG specialism, expert witness experience or similar

• Leadership and mentoring
• Excellent written and verbal communication
• Client-focused relationship management
• EcIA
• BNG
• Habitats Regulations

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