Principal Ecologist

Stantec; Brighton; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading environmental consultancy in the UK is seeking a Principal Ecologist to lead complex ecological projects and build a successful team. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in ecological consultancy, hold a relevant degree along with a protected species licence, and be familiar with UKHab classification. You will manage ecological issues, mentor staff, and develop client relationships. This position is pivotal for expanding project diversity and supporting ecological innovation across the South East of the UK.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in ecological consultancy and complex project management.
• Mastery in conducting assessments like PEAs, ECIAs, and ecological chapters.
• Ability to craft compelling fee proposals.

Responsibilities

• Manage complex ecological issues and mentor project staff.
• Engage with clients and oversee project bids to diversify projects.
• Build and lead a team to expand ecological presence.

Skills

Knowledge of UK legislation and policy

Experience in ecological assessments

Understanding of terrestrial ecological issues

Project budget management

Team development

Education

Protected species licence

Relevant ecological degree

Tools

UKHab classification

Defra Metric

Job description

We are thrilled to announce that we are seeking a highly motivated, passionate, and experienced Principal Ecologist to join our team. This is an exciting opportunity to join a growing, supportive, and ambitious UK-wide Ecology team at Stantec.

As a Principal Ecologist, you will collaborate with teams from different disciplines, with the support of a growing wider UK Ecology Team. You will support our existing partnerships with various water utilities, as well as pursuing new opportunities.

You will have the opportunity to shape the future of our ecological aspirations and be responsible for building a team of talented and passionate professionals who share our vision of innovation, scientific research and a forward-thinking approach to biodiversity. You will also oversee the expansion of our ecological presence in the region by fostering new client relationships and leading in excellence underpinned by implementing best practices. You will be a key player in advancing our UK presence and supporting our reputation for excellence in the field of ecology .

You will be responsible for managing complex ecological issues within a project context, mentoring staff, engaging with clients, and supporting bids and tenders to increase the diversity of projects that we currently deliver. The position will give you the opportunity to work with autonomy and build a successful team, designed around your passion for ecology.

Although Stantec has a large team of ecologists, this particular role will specifically support our water utility frameworks in the South East of the UK. The candidate will have support from the ecology water lead and other principal ecologists within the wider team but will be expected to act with some autonomy to build a team and secure opportunities for a growing team.

About You

You will be a seasoned Ecologist with extensive experience navigating the intricacies of professional consultancy. You'llbe a master of tackling complex ecological challenges within project contexts, drawing upon your in-depth knowledge of relevant legislation and policy.

Your expertise extends beyond legal frameworks. You will hold a wide understanding of terrestrial ecological issues, ideally backed by a protected species licence or a focused specialism in a particular area. Your skillset shines in conducting thorough assessments like PEAs, ECIAs, and ecological chapters, along with HRA contributions.

Familiarity with UKHab classification and the Defra Metric is essential, as is the ability to craft compelling fee proposals and manage project budgets. While experience in winning work and team development is a bonus, your passion for ecology and expertise are what truly matter.

If you're ready to take charge of complex ecological projects and make a real difference, step forward! We're eager to welcome you to our dynamic team.

About Stantec

The Stantec community unites more than 34,000 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 [e-mail] and we will talk to you about how we can support you.