Principal Aquatic Ecologist

JR United Kingdom; Bristol; Hybrid; GBP 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job description

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SLR currently has a great opportunity for an experienced Freshwater/Aquatic Ecologist to help play a key role in growing and developing these capabilities across the UK. Please note we are flexible for the successful candidate to be based in any of our UK offices.

With over 100 experienced Ecology professionals undertaking a wide range of projects throughout the UK and internationally, SLR Consulting leads the way in providing exemplar advice and services. We have a real passion for what we do and due to continued commercial success, we have fantastic opportunities for experienced professionals to become part of the SLR team.

We are looking for a consultant with specialist skills in freshwater, estuarine and marine ecology and a track record in undertaking Ecological Impact Assessment, Habitat Regulations Appraisals, and Water Framework Directive Assessments in various development sectors, including onshore and offshore wind developments.

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

The role

The position involves developing new client relationships, preparing quotations, designing and conducting aquatic field surveys (river invertebrate, electrofishing, river habitat assessments), and preparing baseline reports, impact assessments, and mitigation strategies. The role requires working across the country and occasional out-of-hours work. Key tasks include:

• Managing and overseeing projects, ensuring quality of aquatic ecology outputs for various clients.

• Preparing fee proposals, report writing, and conducting technical reviews.

• Supervising and mentoring ecology staff and providing training.

• Developing SLR’s aquatic ecology business and building the team to support growth.

• Communicating with clients and multidisciplinary teams about aquatic ecology, legislation, and policy across the UK.

• Identifying business development opportunities to expand ecology services and capabilities in the region.

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 ‘one team’ culture fosters collaboration and professional development.

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

About you

• Proven experience leading aquatic inputs in EcIA, EIA, HRA, and WFD assessments.

• Skilled in field survey techniques for fish, macroinvertebrates, and macrophytes.

• Knowledge of relevant permitting, legislation, and regulations governing aquatic and marine environments.

• Strong interpersonal skills, including working with protected species and report preparation.

• Demonstrated success in winning and delivering projects.

• Experience in team management, supervision, mentoring, and growth.

• Sector experience in energy, renewables (onshore and offshore), freshwater systems, fisheries, and infrastructure.

• Relevant postgraduate qualification and membership of CIEEM or equivalent.

• Valid UK driving license.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at SLR

We are committed to being an inclusive employer, promoting diversity through our Regional DE&I Committees, Global Council, and Employee Networks. We welcome applications from all backgrounds, especially from underrepresented groups such as LGBTQ+ individuals, ethnic minorities, women, and people with disabilities or neurodivergence. For more information, visit: https://www.slrconsulting.com/about/making-sustainability-happen/.

To apply

If interested, please click "apply" or submit your application via www.slrconsulting.com/careers. If you require adjustments during the recruitment process, let us know. As a Disability Confident employer, we aim to provide equitable support to all applicants.