Principal Ecologist — Lead Biodiversity in Infra Projects

Haskoning; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee-owned

Hybrid/part-time options

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Haskoning seeks a Principal Ecologist to lead the delivery of complex terrestrial ecology projects and provide technical leadership across a broad portfolio. You will oversee protected species surveys and ecological assessments, mentoring the team and ensuring high-quality outputs throughout feasibility, planning and post-consent delivery.

You will deliver expert ecological advice from EIAs to Biodiversity Net Gain and Licence applications, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams while

Qualifications

• Over 10 years of experience in ecological consultancy across development projects.
• Experience in preparing and reviewing EIAs, Habitats Regulations Assessments and Biodiversity Net Gain.
• Strong leadership, mentoring and client-facing skills.
• Proactive and commercially aware with ability to contribute to team growth.

Responsibilities

• Lead delivery of complex terrestrial ecology projects.
• Oversee protected species surveys and wider ecological assessments.
• Provide expert ecological advice across project lifecycle and manage documentation (EIAs, HRAs, licences).
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and support business development.
• Mentor junior colleagues and manage client relationships.

Skills

Ecology consultancy

Project leadership

Technical report writing

Client engagement

Mentoring

UK driving licence

Education

Degree in ecology or environmental science

Job description

Haskoning seeks a Principal Ecologist to lead the delivery of complex terrestrial ecology projects and provide technical leadership across a broad portfolio. You will oversee protected species surveys and ecological assessments, mentoring the team and ensuring high-quality outputs throughout feasibility, planning and post-consent delivery.

You will deliver expert ecological advice from EIAs to Biodiversity Net Gain and Licence applications, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams while