Senior Ecologist – HRA & Planning Solutions Lead

Arup; York and North Yorkshire; Hybrid; GBP 35,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Arup is seeking an experienced ecologist with strong Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA) expertise to join our ecology team in the UK. You will lead HRA work across infrastructure, development, and planning projects, interfacing with planners, engineers and policymakers.

The role involves solving complex environmental problems, applying ecological evidence to consenting decisions, and contributing to a nature-positive, sustainable built environment.

Qualifications

• Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science or related discipline.
• Chartered status or working towards chartership (Desirable)
• Strong experience preparing and reviewing HRA documentation.
• Excellent understanding of the Habitats Regulations and associated guidance.
• Experience applying ecological evidence to planning and consenting decisions.
• Knowledge of wider environmental assessment processes, including SEA, EIA and EORs.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support HRA work across a diverse portfolio of infrastructure, development and planning projects.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver technically robust and practical solutions.
• Prepare and review HRA documentation to support regulatory submissions.

Skills

HRA expertise

Ecology background

Planning policy

Education

Degree in Ecology/Environmental Science

Job description

Arup is seeking an experienced ecologist with strong Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA) expertise to join our ecology team in the UK. You will lead HRA work across infrastructure, development, and planning projects, interfacing with planners, engineers and policymakers.

The role involves solving complex environmental problems, applying ecological evidence to consenting decisions, and contributing to a nature-positive, sustainable built environment.