Principal Environmental Scientist - Impact Assessments

Stantec; St Leonards; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading environmental consulting firm is seeking a Principal Environmental Scientist – Impact Assessment. You will lead the development of complex environmental approvals and management plans while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. Role includes flexible working arrangements and opportunities for professional development. Ideal candidates should have over 10 years in the field and be committed to achieving impactful environmental outcomes.

Benefits

Flexible working arrangements

Option to purchase additional leave

Development programs and mentoring

Qualifications

• Over 10 years of relevant industry experience.
• Accreditation as Registered Environmental Assessment Practitioner (REAP) or willingness to attain.
• Extensive experience in environmental approvals and impact assessments.

Responsibilities

• Lead environmental approvals documentation and impact assessments.
• Provide technical leadership across major projects.
• Manage complex projects and multidisciplinary teams.

Skills

Leadership in complex projects

Technical writing

Client engagement

Project management

Business development

Education

Tertiary qualifications in Environmental Science or related discipline

Job description

Principal Environmental Scientist – Impact Assessment

We’re seeking a passionate and accomplished Principal Environmental Scientist – Impact Assessment to join our dynamic Environmental Services team. This role can be based in our Sydney or Wollongong office, with flexible work arrangements tailored to your lifestyle, including work‑from‑home, staggered hours and additional purchased leave options. You will be part of a nationally connected group of environmental experts spanning Impact Assessment, Approvals, Ecology, Sustainability, Coastal, Contaminated Land and services, working on diverse and impactful projects across New South Wales and the Asia Pacific Region.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and delivery of complex environmental approvals documentation, including impact assessments and management plans, aligned with NSW and Commonwealth environmental legislation and industry best practices.
• Provide strategic technical leadership and oversight across major infrastructure, renewables, and industrial projects.
• Develop and review high‑quality technical reports that support project outcomes and regulatory compliance.
• Cultivate and manage relationships with clients, regulators, and stakeholders to ensure project success.
• Leverage existing networks and build new client relationships to expand our NSW business footprint.
• Lead proposal development and contribute to business development initiatives to support strategic growth.
• Ensure financial performance of projects through effective planning, budgeting, and delivery oversight.
• Champion a culture of excellence, collaboration, and mentorship within the team.
• Provide guidance and support to junior and mid‑level scientists and engineers, fostering professional development and technical capability.

Qualifications & Experience

• Tertiary qualifications in Environmental Science, Planning, Environmental Engineering or a related discipline.
• 10+ years of relevant industry experience.
• Registered Environmental Assessment Practitioner (REAP) accreditation, or a strong desire to attain accreditation in the near future.
• Extensive experience in environmental approvals and impact assessments, with a strong understanding of NSW and Commonwealth environmental legislation.
• Proven track record in leading regulatory approvals in infrastructure, renewables, water or industrial projects.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and multidisciplinary teams, delivering outcomes on time and within budget.
• Exceptional technical writing and peer‑review capabilities.
• Strategic thinker with strong business development acumen and client engagement skills.
• Collaborative leadership style with a commitment to mentoring and team development.
• Proactive, solutions‑focused mindset with a passion for achieving meaningful environmental outcomes.

Benefits & Flexible Working

• Flexible working arrangements: work from home, staggered hours, part‑time or job‑sharing options.
• Option to purchase up to four weeks of additional leave.
• Learning and Talent Development Programs – global programmes, online learning, and on‑the‑job learning.
• Mentoring for your own development and the opportunity to mentor others.
• Support to obtain Certified Environmental Practitioner (CEnvP) and Registered Environmental Assessment Practitioner (REAP) accreditation.
• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.