Principal Ecologist: Lead Major Infrastructure Ecology

isepglobal; Leeds; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Pension contribution

Professional development

Collectively program volunteering

Buy/sell annual leave

Wellbeing support

Private medical cover

Mindfulness platform

Counselling services

Financial planning

Family benefits

Hybrid working

Job summary

Jacobs' UK Ecology Team is hiring a Principal Ecologist to lead major infrastructure ecological work across the UK. Based in or near one of our offices, you will mentor colleagues, shape environmental strategy, and deliver high-quality assessments across water, transport and energy sectors.

You will collaborate across disciplines, engage with clients, and drive Biodiversity Net Gain and Habitats Regulations Assessment initiatives while advancing your professional accreditation and contributing

Qualifications

• Strong background in terrestrial ecology with significant industry experience.
• Chartered membership (or eligibility) of a relevant professional body.
• Proven track record in leading ecological input on large-scale projects.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with sharp attention to detail.
• High level of personal accountability and professionalism.
• A technical specialism in terrestrial ecology - or broad experience with the ability to adapt quickly to new areas.

Responsibilities

• Deliver major infrastructure projects across water, transport, and energy sectors for clients like Anglian Water, National Highways, Network Rail, and more
• Applying your expertise in Environmental Impact Assessment, Habitats Regulations Assessment, and/or Biodiversity Net Gain
• Collaborating across disciplines, ensuring ecological requirements are integrated into project design and delivery
• Leading ecological monitoring programmes, managing surveys and ensuring high-quality data collection
• Providing expert advice, acting as the main point of contact for clients and stakeholders on large-scale projects
• Building cross-functional networks, working with specialists across geographies and cultures to develop effective solutions
• Mentoring and learning, sharing knowledge through global communities of practice, conferences, and training events

Skills

Terrestrial ecology

Project leadership

Client liaison

Education

Chartered membership

Job description

Jacobs' UK Ecology Team is hiring a Principal Ecologist to lead major infrastructure ecological work across the UK. Based in or near one of our offices, you will mentor colleagues, shape environmental strategy, and deliver high-quality assessments across water, transport and energy sectors.

You will collaborate across disciplines, engage with clients, and drive Biodiversity Net Gain and Habitats Regulations Assessment initiatives while advancing your professional accreditation and contributing