Principal | Senior Associate | Team Lead Aquatic Ecologist

Stantec; North East; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading environmental consultancy in the UK is seeking an experienced Principal Aquatic Ecologist to join their team. The role involves leading aquatic ecology surveys, engaging in water resource management, and fostering client relationships. The ideal candidate will have strong knowledge of UK freshwater ecology, proven experience in ecological assessments, and a degree in a related field. This position offers opportunities for professional development and specialisation.

Qualifications

• Proven experience designing and implementing aquatic ecology surveys.
• Familiarity with frameworks including EIA, HRA, and WFD.

Responsibilities

• Lead aquatic ecology survey and impact assessment activities.
• Engage in drought planning and water resource management.
• Build strong relationships with clients and stakeholders.

Skills

Knowledge of UK freshwater ecology

Experience with ecological assessment tools

Client relationship management

Education

Degree in environmental science or aquatic ecology

Tools

GIS for data analysis

Ecological reporting software

Job description

Overview

Stantec's Ecology Team partners with clients to deliver innovative, sustainable, and efficient solutions to solve complex environmental challenges. We are seeking a Principal Aquatic Ecologist with a broad understanding of aquatic ecology to join our nationwide team. The role supports a wide range of project deliverables across development impacts and water resources projects, with opportunities to specialise in areas such as fish ecology, aquatic plants, or hydro-ecology.

You'll take a leading role in shaping and delivering aquatic ecology elements across major projects primarily within the water sector, while also supporting work in energy, infrastructure, and development.

Responsibilities

• Provide broad technical input, leading and contributing to the full spectrum of aquatic ecology survey and impact assessment activities.
• Design and oversee surveys for macroinvertebrates, fish, macrophytes, and invasive species; contribute technical input to environmental impact assessments and Water Framework Directive (WFD) compliance work.
• Engage across a range of project types, including drought planning, water resource management, and environmental restoration.
• Lead and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams; mentor junior colleagues; promote knowledge sharing.
• Build strong relationships with clients, regulators, and stakeholders; contribute to business development, proposals, and client management.

About You

You're a seasoned aquatic ecologist with broad knowledge of UK freshwater ecology and some exposure to marine or transitional environments. You have proven experience designing, implementing, and interpreting aquatic ecology and water quality surveys for EIA, HRA, WFD, and other relevant frameworks. You can assess a wide variety of ecological impacts from infrastructure development to operational water resources projects. Familiarity with assessment tools (e.g., RICT, DARLEQ2/3), ecological reporting software, and GIS for data analysis is essential.

Ideally, you can apply best practice survey techniques across multiple taxa and habitats. Specialisms such as fish ecology, invasive species, restoration, or hydro-ecology are highly encouraged and supported as part of ongoing professional development. We value strategic insight and commercial awareness, including experience leading projects and developing client relationships. A degree in environmental science, aquatic ecology, or a related field is required. Progress toward or attainment of Chartered Status (e.g., CEnv, CEcol) and membership of a relevant professional body (e.g., CIEEM, IFM, RSB) are preferred.

If you're ready to lead complex ecological projects and make a real difference, step forward. We are eager to welcome you to our dynamic team.

About Stantec

The Stantec community unites more than 32,000 employees in over 450 locations across 6 continents. We have been working with our clients and communities in the UK for over 150 years. We plan, design, deliver and manage development and infrastructure to support sustainable, healthy, and prosperous communities.

Our teams provide effective solutions, translating clients\' vision into valued consents, deliverable plans, and efficient designs based on technical excellence and market insights. We strive for a fairer, better tomorrow and support clean growth and future-ready communities.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

Stantec provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination on the grounds of race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, genetic information, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. We are in compliance with laws and regulations and ensure equitable opportunities in all aspects of employment.

Building an inspired, inclusive work environment that attracts, supports, and develops world-class talent is core to our success. If you are excited by this role but your experience doesn\'t exactly align, we encourage you to apply. If you need adjustments to be made during the recruitment process, please contact [e-mail] and we will discuss how we can support you.

ReqID: 7562