Consultant Ecologist

Leeds, Manchester & Nottingham

About the Opportunity

Are you ready to bring your passion for ecology and expertise to a dynamic, forward-thinking consultancy? Our client, a highly respected international multidisciplinary engineering and environmental consultancy, is looking for a Consultant Ecologist to join their expanding UK team. They're on the lookout for a talented, enthusiastic professional to work on a wide variety of exciting projects, delivering innovative and sustainable solutions for the infrastructure, property, energy, and environmental sectors.

This role offers the chance to be part of a vibrant ecology team working on nationally significant projects in regeneration, transport, and public sectors. While primarily based in your local region, you'll regularly collaborate with regional teams and have opportunities to work on projects across the UK. Join our client in shaping the future of ecology, with a particular focus on Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)—helping ensure projects leave the natural environment in a measurably better state than before.

Key Responsibilities

As a valued member of the team, your responsibilities will include:

• Undertaking ecological surveys and supporting desk-based research for various projects.
• Preparing high-quality technical reports such as Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEA), Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA), BNG assessments, and BREEAM 2018 Assessments.
• Providing practical, commercially savvy ecological advice to diverse clients across different industries.
• Assisting with, or directly contributing to, Environmental Statement (ES) chapters within the EIA framework.
• Ensuring adherence to UK ecological legislation and planning policies.
• Reviewing and providing constructive feedback on ecological reports to maintain quality standards.
• Preparing fee proposals and ensuring effective budget management for projects.
• Collaborating with cross-disciplinary teams to ensure successful project delivery.
• Supporting conservation and protected species licensing initiatives—preferably holding at least one protected species licence.

What We're Looking For

Our client is seeking an individual with:

• A degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or another relevant discipline.
• At least one year of experience in ecological consultancy or a related field.
• Strong knowledge of UK ecological legislation and planning guidelines.
• Proven experience with linear infrastructure and property development projects (advantageous).
• Exceptional report writing capabilities, particularly in preparing PEA, EcIA, BNG assessments, and BREEAM 2018 reports.
• Familiarity with the EIA process, including contributing to Environmental Statement chapters.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, to engage clients and stakeholders effectively.
• A solid understanding of conservation legislation and relevant protected species licensing protocols.
• A full UK driving licence.

A Typical Day

Every day will bring new challenges and opportunities to grow, including:

• Conducting field surveys and ecological assessments at diverse locations.
• Collaborating with team members and clients to develop tailored solutions.
• Preparing insightful reports and offering strategic advice on ecological concerns.
• Guiding projects to meet BNG requirements and other ecological objectives.
• Participating in meetings with clients and stakeholders to deliver updates and foster collaboration.
• Traveling to project locations and regional offices as needed.

What’s on Offer

Our client offers an excellent work environment with a strong focus on your professional growth and well-being, including:

• A highly competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Clear career progression pathways within a supportive and innovative organization.
• Opportunities to work on challenging projects across multiple sectors.
• Access to ongoing training and development programs designed to refine your expertise.
• A collaborative, inclusive culture that values work-life balance.
• A chance to make a real, lasting impact on the environment through sustainable solutions.

If you're an ambitious ecologist who thrives in an ever-evolving field and wants to contribute to impactful, sustainable projects, we want to hear from you! Join our client’s growing team of experts and take your career to the next level. Apply today and help make a difference!