Ecologist

Kier Group plc.; St. Neots; Hybrid; GBP 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Kier Group plc. in Cambridge is seeking a Senior Ecologist to lead ecological compliance across a major DCO infrastructure project.

You will advise design and construction teams, coordinate on-site ecological activities and ensure environmental commitments are delivered effectively on site. The role requires a degree in Ecology, membership of CIEEM (or equivalent), and hands-on experience with protected species surveys, mitigation delivery and on-site oversight.

Qualifications

• Holds a degree in Ecology and membership of CIEEM (or equivalent).
• Experience as a Senior Ecologist or Ecological Clerk of Works, supporting construction delivery and ecological compliance on site.
• Hands-on experience with protected species surveys, mitigation delivery, licence requirements and sensitive areas.

Responsibilities

• Lead on-site ecological activities and coordinate ecology resources.
• Act as the primary point of contact for ecological matters on the project.
• Review construction documentation to advise on ecological controls before works begin.
• Monitor compliance with environmental plans, planning conditions, licences and consents.
• Deliver toolbox talks and environmental awareness training to project teams.

Skills

Ecology knowledge

Project leadership

Stakeholder communication

Education

Degree in Ecology

Job description

We're looking for a Senior Ecologist to join our team in Cambridge. Could this be your next career move?

This is an exciting opportunity to take a leading role on a nationally significant infrastructure project, helping to shape ecological outcomes from design through to construction. Working on a high‑profile DCO scheme, you'll provide expert ecological advice, influence project decisions, and ensure environmental commitments are delivered effectively on site. Location: Cambridge - regular office presence required, with some flexibility for hybrid workingHours: Permanent, full‑time (42 hours per week). Condensed hours and flexible working arrangements can be considered - just let us know what works for you. We are unable to offer certificates of sponsorship for this role.

Why join us?

This is an opportunity to work on a landmark infrastructure project where your expertise will directly influence environmental outcomes. You'll be part of a collaborative team of specialists, tackling complex ecological challenges while helping to create a lasting positive legacy for nature and local communities.

What will you be responsible for?

As a Senior Ecologist, you'll play a key role in delivering ecological compliance and mitigation across the project. Acting as Lead Ecological Clerk of Works, you'll coordinate on‑site ecological activities, advise construction teams and ensure works are delivered responsibly while balancing programme requirements.

Your day-to-day will include:

• Leading ecological activities on site, coordinating ecology resource and acting as the primary point of contact for ecological matters
• Identifying ecological risks and constraints early, providing practical solutions that support delivery while maintaining compliance
• Monitoring contractor activities to ensure adherence with environmental management plans, planning conditions, SSSI consents and protected species licence requirements
• Undertaking site inspections, environmental audits, pre‑construction ecological checks and maintaining clear compliance records
• Supporting and mentoring ecologists on site while delivering toolbox talks and environmental awareness training to project teams

Holds a degree in Ecology or a related environmental discipline and is a member of CIEEM (or an equivalent professional body)

• Brings proven experience in a Senior Ecologist or Ecological Clerk of Works role, supporting construction delivery and managing ecological compliance on site
• Has hands‑on experience with protected species surveys, mitigation delivery, licence requirements and environmentally sensitive areas
• Can review construction documentation and advise on practical ecological controls before works begin
• Can confidently communicate ecological requirements to contractors, project teams and stakeholders at all levels
• Thrives in a site‑based environment, taking ownership of decisions and finding practical, commercially aware solutions to ecological challenges