Principal Aquatic Ecologist

SLR Consulting; Bristol; Hybrid; GBP 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a talented Aquatic Ecologist to join their dynamic team. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to impactful environmental projects across the UK, focusing on aquatic ecology and sustainability. You will be responsible for developing client relationships, conducting field surveys, and preparing comprehensive reports that shape the future of ecological services. With a commitment to professional growth and a collaborative culture, this position is perfect for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the environmental sector while enjoying flexible working arrangements.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits including healthcare

Pension plan

Flexible working arrangements

Career development framework

Qualifications

• Proven experience in leading aquatic components of assessments.
• Strong interpersonal skills and experience with protected species.

Responsibilities

• Managing projects and ensuring high-quality aquatic ecology outputs.
• Preparing fee proposals and conducting technical reviews.

Skills

Ecological Impact Assessments

Habitat Regulations Appraisals

Water Framework Directive Assessments

Field survey techniques

Business development

Leadership skills

Education

Postgraduate degree in Ecology

Job description

2 weeks ago Be among the first 25 applicants

Direct message the job poster from SLR Consulting

Talent Acquisition & Recruitment Specialist with SLR Consulting

SLR currently offers an exciting opportunity for an experienced Freshwater/Aquatic Ecologist to contribute to expanding our capabilities across the UK. The successful candidate can be based at any of our UK offices, as we are flexible on location.

With over 100 ecology professionals working on diverse projects within the UK and internationally, SLR Consulting is a leader in providing exemplary environmental advice and services. We are passionate about our work and, due to ongoing success, we have fantastic opportunities for experienced professionals to join our team.

We seek a consultant with expertise in freshwater, estuarine, and marine ecology, with a proven track record in Ecological Impact Assessments, Habitat Regulations Appraisals, and Water Framework Directive Assessments across various development sectors, including onshore and offshore wind.

We also desire a motivated work winner to help grow our existing team and enhance our presence in this sector. Applicants should have strong field skills, technical knowledge, and experience in business development within a commercial consultancy environment.

The role

This position involves developing new client relationships, preparing quotations, designing and conducting aquatic field surveys (such as river invertebrate sampling, electrofishing, and habitat assessments), and preparing baseline reports, impact assessments, and mitigation strategies. The role requires nationwide travel and occasional out-of-hours work. Key responsibilities include:

1. Managing and overseeing projects, ensuring high-quality aquatic ecology outputs for various clients.
2. Preparing fee proposals, report writing, and conducting technical reviews of ecological outputs.
3. Supervising, mentoring, and training ecology staff.
4. Growing SLR’s aquatic ecology business and building the team to support this growth.
5. Communicating with clients and multidisciplinary teams about aquatic ecology, wildlife legislation, and policies across the UK.
6. Identifying and pursuing business development opportunities to expand our ecological services and capabilities.

About us

SLR is a global leader in environmental and advisory solutions, helping clients achieve sustainability goals. With over 3,000 employees across six regions—including over 1,000 in Europe—our collaborative 'one team' culture fosters professional growth.

We offer competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits (including pension, healthcare, insurance, and critical illness cover), and a structured career development framework. Our flexible, hybrid working arrangements and family-friendly policies support work-life balance.

About you

• Proven experience in leading aquatic components of EcIA, EIA, HRA, and WFD assessments.
• Experience with field survey techniques for fish, macroinvertebrates, and macrophytes.
• Knowledge of relevant permits, consents, and legislation governing aquatic and marine environments.
• Strong interpersonal skills, including working with protected species and report preparation.
• Track record of winning and delivering projects successfully.
• Leadership skills in managing and mentoring teams.
• Experience across sectors such as energy, renewables, freshwater systems, fisheries, and infrastructure.
• Postgraduate degree and membership of CIEEM or equivalent.
• Valid UK driving license.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at SLR

We are committed to being an inclusive employer, fostering an environment where all individuals can thrive, regardless of background. We welcome applications from underrepresented groups, including LGBTQ+ individuals, ethnic minorities, women, and those with disabilities or neurodivergence. For more info, visit: https://www.slrconsulting.com/about/making-sustainability-happen/

To apply

If interested, please click 'apply' or submit your application via our careers page. We support applicants requiring adjustments during the recruitment process and are a Disability Confident employer.