Senior Ecologist | Lead Biodiversity on Major Infrastructure

Jacobs; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid working

Flexible working hours

Annualised hours contract

Pension up to 10%

Job summary

Jacobs UK Ecology Team is seeking a Principal Ecologist to lead ecological input on major infrastructure projects and mentor colleagues across the practice. You will play a pivotal role in Environmental Impact Assessments, Biodiversity Net Gain, and cross-disciplinary delivery.

You’ll collaborate with clients and stakeholders across UK offices, driving quality data, sound ecological advice, and best practices while enabling flexible and inclusive work arrangements within a global firm.

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 area.

Responsibilities

• Delivering 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
• We offer different career pathways to suit your strengths - whether you’re motivated by line management responsibilities or prefer to focus on technical expertise, progression is supported in both routes, with management being an option rather than a requirement

Skills

Terrestrial ecology

Leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Communication

Education

Chartered membership (or eligibility) of a relevant professional body

Professional accreditation

Job description

Jacobs UK Ecology Team is seeking a Principal Ecologist to lead ecological input on major infrastructure projects and mentor colleagues across the practice. You will play a pivotal role in Environmental Impact Assessments, Biodiversity Net Gain, and cross-disciplinary delivery.

You’ll collaborate with clients and stakeholders across UK offices, driving quality data, sound ecological advice, and best practices while enabling flexible and inclusive work arrangements within a global firm.