Ecologist / Senior Ecologist

Stantec UK Limited; Belfast; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading environmental consultancy in Northern Ireland is seeking a Senior Ecologist to manage complex ecological issues, conduct surveys, and mentor junior staff. The candidate should possess a minimum BSc degree in ecology, experience in ecological assessments, and hold a protected species survey license. Opportunities for professional growth and collaboration with diverse teams are emphasized.

Qualifications

• Experience in a consultancy or similar environment and a deep understanding of UK and EU wildlife legislation and policy.
• Experience conducting detailed assessments such as PEAs and ECIAs.
• Protected species survey licence for at least one species.

Responsibilities

• Manage complex ecological issues within a project context.
• Design and implement ecological mitigation and enhancement measures.
• Mentor junior staff and help them develop their ecological skills.

Skills

Strong communication

Teamwork

Leadership

Education

Minimum BSc degree in ecology or a similar environmental discipline

Job description

Overview

We seek a Senior ecologist to join our team and work on various projects across different sectors. You will work closely with our Principal Ecologist and assist in building a team of talented and passionate professionals who share our vision of innovation, scientific research and a forward-thinking approach to biodiversity.

As a Senior Ecologist, you will collaborate with teams from different disciplines, such as planning, engineering, and design, backed by an Ecology Team that will support you. You will support our existing partnerships with various water utilities, pursue new opportunities, and aid our lead ecologist in expanding our client base.

You will manage complex ecological issues within a project context, such as conducting ecological surveys and assessments, designing and implementing ecological mitigation and enhancement measures, and applying for and obtaining protected species licences. You will also mentor junior staff and help them develop their ecological skills and knowledge. You will have the opportunity to work with autonomy, grow professionally, and participate in training and networking events.

Responsibilities

• Manage complex ecological issues within a project context, including conducting ecological surveys and assessments.
• Design and implement ecological mitigation and enhancement measures.
• Apply for and obtain protected species licences.
• Mentor junior staff and help them develop their ecological skills and knowledge.
• Work with autonomy, grow professionally, and participate in training and networking events.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (planning, engineering, design) and support existing partnerships with water utilities; pursue new opportunities and assist in expanding the client base.

Qualifications

• Minimum BSc degree in ecology or a similar environmental discipline.
• Experience in a consultancy or similar environment and a deep understanding of UK and EU wildlife legislation and policy.
• Experience conducting detailed assessments such as Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs), Ecological Impact Assessments (ECIAs), and ecological chapters; ability to contribute to Habitats Regulations Assessments (HRAs).
• Familiarity with UK Habitation classification and the Defra Metric is essential.
• Protected species survey licence for at least one species (e.g., great crested newt, bats) and experience with protected species licensing.
• Experience managing projects, budgets, and client relationships.
• Strong communication, teamwork, and leadership skills.
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel.

Desirable

• Membership of CIEEM, IEMA or similar.
• Proven experience in line management.

About Stantec

The Stantec community unites more than 31,000 employees working in over 450 locations across 6 continents. We have been working with our clients and communities in the UK for over 150 years. We plan, design, deliver and manage the development and infrastructure needed to support the creation of sustainable, healthy and prosperous communities.

Our teams provide effective and relevant solutions, translating our clients’ vision into valued consents, deliverable plans for projects and programmes, and efficient designs for delivery, based on technical excellence and deep market insights. We deal with today’s challenges, but also keep a fairer, better tomorrow in sight, looking at how we deliver clean growth, support radical changes in our economy and meet the needs of future communities.

Stantec provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants for future and current employment and prohibit discrimination on the grounds of race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, genetic information, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. We prohibit discrimination in decisions concerning recruitment, hiring, referral, promotion, compensation, fringe benefits, job training, terminations or any other condition of employment. Stantec is in compliance with laws and regulations and ensures equitable opportunities in all aspects of employment.

Building an inspired, inclusive work environment that attracts, supports, and develops world-class talent is a crucial key to our success. If you are excited by this role but worry that your experience doesn’t exactly align, we encourage you to apply.

At Stantec we want you to perform your best at every stage of the recruitment process and are committed to ensuring it is accessible to all. If you need any support or require adjustments to be made then please contact careers.UK&and we will talk to you about how we can support you.

ReqID: 7517