Principal Ecologist: Lead Biodiversity & Infrastructure

Jacobs Solutions Inc.; Belfast City District; Hybrid; GBP 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Pension scheme

Life assurance

Professional development support

Volunteer & charitable donations

Hybrid working models

Job summary

Jacobs Solutions Inc. is seeking a Principal Ecologist to lead ecological inputs for major infrastructure projects across Europe. You will drive environmental assessments, advise clients, and mentor junior staff while shaping biodiversity outcomes across water, transport and energy sectors.

You will join a growing Irish ecology team, operate in a hybrid model from Belfast, Dublin or Cork offices, and contribute to high-profile programmes with national and international impact.

Qualifications

• Degree in ecology or related field with extensive industry experience.
• Strong understanding of ecology, environmental assessment and regulatory frameworks.
• Excellent communication and client-facing skills, able to influence and lead.
• Experience managing complex projects and contributing to proposals or work-winning activities.

Responsibilities

• Lead ecological inputs for EIA and AA.
• Provide strategic ecological advice as a trusted technical lead for clients and teams.
• Collaborate within multidisciplinary teams to integrate ecological considerations into design.
• Build relationships with clients, regulators and stakeholders to support pipelines.
• Represent Jacobs in networks, conferences, and client meetings.
• Mentor and guide junior team members to foster technical excellence.

Skills

Terrestrial ecology

Environmental assessment

Regulatory frameworks

Client facing

Project leadership

Mentoring

Business development

Collaborative teamwork

Education

Degree in ecology or related environmental discipline

Chartered membership of a relevant body

Job description

Jacobs Solutions Inc. is seeking a Principal Ecologist to lead ecological inputs for major infrastructure projects across Europe. You will drive environmental assessments, advise clients, and mentor junior staff while shaping biodiversity outcomes across water, transport and energy sectors.

You will join a growing Irish ecology team, operate in a hybrid model from Belfast, Dublin or Cork offices, and contribute to high-profile programmes with national and international impact.