Ecologist

AECOM; Dorking; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading integrated design practice in the UK is seeking a Senior / Principal Ecologist to lead ecological projects and mentor a talented team. The role includes conducting biodiversity audits, managing environmental assessments, and providing technical expertise in ecological design. Candidates should have at least 2 years of relevant experience and a degree in ecology or a related field. Benefits include a competitive salary, performance bonus, and career progression within a dynamic work environment.

Benefits

Competitive salary with performance bonus

Car allowance / flexible benefits package

Career progression opportunities

Professional development and training support

Dynamic, collaborative work environment

Qualifications

• A minimum of 2+ years experience in ecological survey and assessment.
• Experience in EcIAs, EIAs and HRAs is required.
• Desirable: Protected species licence(s) and membership or eligibility of CIEEM.

Responsibilities

• Lead ecological surveys, habitat assessments, and biodiversity audits.
• Provide technical expertise in biodiversity net gain and ecological design.
• Mentor junior ecologists and support their professional development.

Skills

Strong communication

Project management

Team leadership skills

Education

Ecology degree or related field

Job description

Senior / Principal Ecologist (Biodiversity Net Gain Specialist)

Location: UK (York / Dorking) Salary: £50,000 – £60,000 (dependent on experience) Employment: Permanent – Full Time

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced ecologist to step into a senior leadership role, delivering complex and varied projects across multiple sectors. You will support and mentor a talented team of ecologists, while building and maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead ecological surveys, habitat assessments and biodiversity audits.
• Conduct and manage EcIAs, EIAs and HRAs.
• Provide technical expertise in biodiversity net gain and ecological design.
• Develop and deliver project plans, reports and presentations.
• Mentor junior ecologists and support their professional development.
• Maintain strong relationships with clients, developers and regulatory bodies.

Qualifications

• Ecology degree or related field.
• Minimum 2+ years experience in ecological survey and assessment.
• Experience in EcIAs, EIAs and HRAs.
• Desirable: Protected species licence(s).
• Desirable: Membership or eligibility of CIEEM.
• Strong communication, project management and team‑leadership skills.

Benefits

• Competitive salary with performance bonus.
• Car allowance / flexible benefits package.
• Career progression opportunities within a leading integrated design practice.
• Professional development and training support.
• Dynamic, collaborative work environment.

Consultant Ecologist – Unified Delivery Team

Location: Home based (UK travel required) Employment: Permanent – Full Time

About the Role

Provide ecological expertise as part of a strong delivery team, working closely with cross‑disciplinary partners on diverse UK projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver technical biodiversity assessments.
• Contribute to project design, reporting and compliance.
• Support client outreach and stakeholder engagement.

Qualifications

• Relevant academic qualification.
• Confirmed experience in ecological consultancy.
• Strong project management and teamwork skills.

Additional contract and consultancy opportunities (e.g., 12‑month contracts in Cardiff, Iris Offices) offer flexible hours and competitive hourly rates for suitably experienced ecologists.