Principal Ecology Consultant — Lead, Mentor, Hybrid

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

Benefits offered by this job

Pension

Profit sharing

Hybrid work model

Home office allowance

Private medical & dental

Job summary

Haskoning seeks a Principal Ecology Consultant to lead challenging terrestrial ecology projects and mentor a growing team. You will integrate technical leadership with client engagement, from early feasibility through to planning and post‑consent delivery.

You will guide the ecology practice, ensure high‑quality outputs, and contribute to business development while supporting colleagues across disciplines. A UK driving licence and willingness to travel are expected.

Qualifications

• Extensive ecological consultancy experience, typically over 10 years and across development projects.
• Degree in ecology, environmental science or related discipline; equivalent non‑degree routes may apply.
• Experience preparing and reviewing Ecological Impact Assessments, Habitats Regulations Assessments, and Biodiversity Net Gain Assessments.
• Membership of CIEEM and Natural England protected species licences; CEcol or CEnv status would be advantageous.
• Experience managing projects, budgets and client relationships, with willingness to travel and a valid UK driving licence.

Responsibilities

• Lead complex terrestrial ecology projects and provide expert advice from feasibility to delivery.
• Mentor junior colleagues and act as technical lead within the ecology team.
• Oversee protected species surveys, ecological assessments and mitigation strategies.
• Support business development and maintain strong client relationships.

Skills

Leadership

Mentoring

Client engagement

Project management

Communication

Education

Degree in ecology or environmental science

CEcol / CEnv (advantageous)

Job description

Haskoning seeks a Principal Ecology Consultant to lead challenging terrestrial ecology projects and mentor a growing team. You will integrate technical leadership with client engagement, from early feasibility through to planning and post‑consent delivery.

You will guide the ecology practice, ensure high‑quality outputs, and contribute to business development while supporting colleagues across disciplines. A UK driving licence and willingness to travel are expected.