The Opportunity
We have an exciting opportunity where you can bring your skills and knowledge to the role of Principal Ecologist.
You will play a key leadership role in delivering complex ecological projects, providing strategic technical guidance, and driving business development initiatives for our client within their Birmingham office.
This is a unique opportunity for you to shape the direction of their ecology offering while advancing your career in a supportive and engaging workplace.
You will be involved with:
Acting as Project Director on large or complex projects, with accountability for delivery, quality and client satisfaction
Leading and overseeing ecological project teams across a diverse portfolio
Project management and client liaison on high-value and complex schemes
Preliminary Ecology Appraisals
Ecological Impact Assessments
Habitats Regulations Assessments
Biodiversity Net Gain Assessments
Protected Species Surveys, Licensing and Mitigation Strategies
Reviewing, quality assuring and signing off technical reports and deliverables
Mentoring and developing Ecologists across all levels of the team
You will be confident scoping, designing and leading ecological surveys and projects, while also building strong, lasting client relationships. You’ll take ownership of growing your portfolio, winning work for both yourself and the wider team, and contributing to the ongoing success of our ecology discipline.
Expect diverse tasks. Dive into complex and high-impact projects, collaborate cross-discipline, and respond to the ever-changing needs of the natural environment. While the pace is lively, there are always opportunities to reflect and innovate.
No two days are the same.
Desirable Qualifications
To join them in setting new standards, you will be able to bring with you some, or most, of the following:
Strong academic qualifications in ecology or biological sciences
Be a full member of CIEEM (MCIEEM or working towards Chartership preferred)
Extensive understanding of legislative and planning policy frameworks
Advanced survey skills, including UK Habitat Classification and protected species surveys
Holder of one or more Protected Species Licences (desirable)
Significant experience liaising with clients, statutory bodies and local planning authorities
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to influence and advise at a senior level
Highly developed report writing, review and quality assurance capabilities
Exceptional project management skills, delivering complex projects on time and within budget
Proven experience in mentoring and developing team members
A strong track record of business development and securing projects
A collaborative approach that aligns with their values and supports cross-discipline working
A full UK driving licence
What's on Offer
Competitive salary
Life insurance of 3 x salary
20 days annual leave, +1 for your Birthday!
Up to 2 professional memberships paid
Access to mental health professionals, support and counselling
Contributory pension, matched up to 4%
Internal and external funded training
Access to internal and external mentors
Employee assistance programme (EAP)