Principal Ecologist

Waterman Group; West Midlands; On-site; GBP 52,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

Waterman’s Ecology team is one of the largest ecological consultancies in the UK, comprising highly experienced specialists and project managers. We are seeking an experienced ecologist to lead surveys, provide technical leadership for EcIA/HRA/BNG and manage multi-disciplinary teams.

The role focuses on delivering high-quality ecological services across projects, mentoring colleagues, maintaining client relationships, and supporting business development within Waterman.

Qualifications

• Degree in Ecology or related discipline.
• Significant ecological consultancy experience across energy, water, transport, housing or infra.
• Strong knowledge of EcIA, BNG, Habitats Regulations and planning processes.
• Experience managing ecology projects from inception to completion with budgets/resources.

Responsibilities

• Lead ecological surveys and technical delivery across projects.
• Provide technical leadership and QA for PEAs, EcIA, HRA, BNG and EIA ecology chapters.
• Act as technical lead on complex projects ensuring compliance with legislation and best practice.
• Manage multiple projects, budgets, resources, and risk.
• Coordinate multidisciplinary teams and subcontractors to deliver on time and within budget.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships, identifying opportunities for further work.
• Prepare fee proposals, tenders, and framework submissions; contribute to business development.
• Mentor junior and senior ecologists and support career progression.
• Contribute to technical standards and innovation in Waterman’s ecology service.

Skills

Technical leadership

Project management

Client communication

Mentoring

Team development

Problem solving

Education

Degree in Ecology or related

MCIEEM or CIEEM eligibility

Full UK driving licence

Tools

GIS

Job description

PermanentWaterman's Ecology team is one of the largest and most diverse ecological consultancies in the UK, comprising highly experienced technical specialists, project managers and sector experts.

Any additional information you require for this job can be found in the below text.

Our ecologists work closely with colleagues across the wider business to provide integrated environmental advice throughout the project lifecycle, from site acquisition and feasibility through to planning, construction and long-term habitat management.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead ecological surveys, assessments and technical delivery across a range of projects.
• Provide technical leadership and quality assurance for PEAs, EcIA, HRA, BNG, protected species mitigation, Ecological Management Plans and EIA ecology chapters.
• Act as technical lead on complex and high-profile projects, ensuring compliance with relevant legislation, policy and best practice.
• Manage multiple projects and teams, overseeing programmes, budgets, resources, risk and financial performance.
• Coordinate multidisciplinary teams and specialist subcontractors to deliver projects safely, on time and within budget.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships, acting as a key point of contact and identifying opportunities for further work.
• Prepare fee proposals, tenders and framework submissions and contribute to wider business development.
• Mentor and develop junior and senior ecologists, supporting technical development and career progression.
• Contribute to technical standards, innovation and the continued development of Waterman’s ecology service.

About You

Essential:

• Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, Biology or a related discipline.
• Significant ecological consultancy experience, ideally across sectors such as energy, water, transport, housing or infrastructure.
• Strong technical knowledge of EcIA, BNG, Habitats Regulations, protected species legislation and planning/consenting processes.
• Proven experience managing ecology projects from inception through to completion, including budgets and resources.
• Strong client management and communication skills.
• Experience mentoring and supporting junior colleagues.
• MCIEEM or eligibility for full CIEEM membership.
• Full UK driving licence.
• Specialist expertise demonstrated through relevant survey or mitigation licences, botanical expertise, BNG specialism, expert witness experience or similar.

Desirable:

• Experience with EIA, NSIP, public inquiries or expert witness work.
• Experience in utilities, transport, energy or major infrastructure.
• GIS experience.
• CEnv, CEcol or CBiol status.

Key Skills

• Technical leadership and ecological expertise.
• Strong project and commercial management.
• Excellent communication and report-writing skills.
• Client-focused approach and business development awareness.
• Leadership, mentoring and team development.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Commitment to technical quality, innovation and professional development.