Associate Ecologist

Location: Manchester

Overview

Are you passionate about shaping the future of urban ecology and delivering innovative solutions in complex city environments? Our client is seeking an experienced and driven Associate Ecologist to join their dynamic team in Manchester. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to high-profile projects, lead talented ecologists, and make a tangible impact on urban development and biodiversity.

Our client’s Ecology team provides a wide range of ecological services to support renewable energy, residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects. They are at the forefront of some of the largest offshore wind developments in the country, as well as onshore wind and solar projects, helping to deliver clean energy to the UK market. Their work also spans residential and commercial sectors, offering a diverse and rewarding portfolio.

Responsibilities

As an Associate Ecologist, you will:

• Provide leadership and guidance within the Manchester Ecology team, contributing to strategic direction and operational oversight in an urban context.
• Collaborate with senior management and peers across the organisation to foster an inclusive, agile, and high-performing team.
• Drive business growth by strengthening relationships with key clients in urban development sectors and identifying opportunities in emerging markets such as biodiversity net gain and nature-based solutions.
• Ensure the successful delivery of projects in line with UK legislation, planning policy, and best practices.
• Mentor and support junior ecologists, guiding their professional development and helping them navigate the complexities of urban projects.
• Champion innovation and technical excellence, particularly in integrating ecology into multifunctional urban spaces and infrastructure.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have:

• Proven leadership skills with the ability to inspire and manage teams in a multidisciplinary, high-pressure environment.
• Extensive experience in managing complex urban ecology projects, including Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA), green infrastructure, and biodiversity net gain assessments.
• Strong technical expertise in delivering ecological solutions for major infrastructure and regeneration projects in Manchester or other urban areas.
• Familiarity with planning frameworks such as the local biodiversity strategies and Greater Manchester's planning policies.
• A forward-thinking approach to urban ecology, with an interest in nature-based design, ecological resilience, and smart city integration.
• Excellent client engagement skills and a collaborative mindset.

Day-to-Day

Your daily responsibilities will include:

• Overseeing the delivery of urban ecology projects, ensuring they meet client expectations and regulatory requirements.
• Engaging with clients and stakeholders to build and maintain strong relationships.
• Providing technical guidance and strategic input on urban ecology initiatives.
• Supporting team members in their professional growth through mentoring and training.
• Identifying and pursuing new business opportunities in emerging markets.
• Promoting innovation and best practices within the team and across the organisation.

Benefits

Our client is committed to supporting your professional growth and wellbeing. Benefits include:

• Access to accredited training programmes, including leadership and management qualifications up to master’s degree level.
• Opportunities to work on diverse and impactful projects that expand your expertise and career horizons.
• A collaborative and inclusive work environment that values diverse perspectives and ideas.
• A strong focus on employee wellbeing, ensuring you feel supported and valued in your role.

If you are ready to take the next step in your career and contribute to a team that is shaping the future of urban ecology, we want to hear from you. Apply today to join a forward-thinking organisation that puts people and the planet first.