Principal Ecologist

Overview

Our Client is seeking a Principal Ecologist to play a senior technical and project leadership role within their expanding UK ecology function. This position is based in Leeds, with flexible hybrid working arrangements and travel to project sites as required.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced ecologist who thrives on shaping project strategies, leading complex assessments, and acting as a trusted technical advisor to clients.

Responsibilities

As a Principal Ecologist, you will:

• Lead ecological inputs on complex and high-value projects across sectors such as infrastructure, energy, and large-scale development.
• Act as the technical lead for Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA) and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) delivery.
• Review, sign off, and ensure the quality of technical outputs.
• Manage project programmes, budgets, and resourcing effectively.
• Provide expert advice to clients, planners, and stakeholders on ecological matters.
• Coordinate multidisciplinary teams and sub-consultants to deliver project objectives.
• Support bids, tenders, and fee proposals to secure new business opportunities.
• Mentor and develop less experienced ecologists, fostering their professional growth.
• Contribute to the evolution of internal standards, processes, and best practices.

Qualifications

Essential:

• Extensive experience within ecological consultancy.
• Proven track record of delivering complex development projects.
• In-depth understanding of UK planning, EIA, and BNG requirements.
• Demonstrated experience managing ecological inputs at a senior level.
• Excellent technical writing, review, and communication skills.
• Confident client-facing capability.
• Degree in ecology or a related discipline.
• Full UK driving licence.

Desirable:

• Direct experience with NSIP or DCO projects.
• Habitat Regulations Assessment (HRA) experience.
• Protected species survey licences.
• Expertise in botanical or ornithological fields.
• Membership or Chartership with CIEEM.

Day-to-Day

• Oversee and manage ecological workstreams on medium to large or complex projects.
• Coordinate and ensure the quality of surveys, technical delivery, and project outputs.
• Collaborate with planning, engineering, and landscape teams to integrate ecology into project designs.
• Author and review EcIAs, BNG assessments, and other key deliverables.
• Act as a trusted advisor to clients, providing innovative and practical ecological solutions.

Benefits

• Senior-level influence within a growing consultancy.
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements to support work-life balance.
• A strong wellbeing and support culture.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Long-term career progression opportunities as the team continues to expand.

If you are an experienced ecologist looking for a role where you can make a significant impact, we encourage you to apply. Join a dynamic and growing team, and contribute to delivering industry-leading ecological projects across the UK.

Location: Leeds (Flexible Hybrid Working)
Apply Now to take the next step in your career!