Senior Ecologist: Lead Projects & Grow the Ecology Practice

Assystem; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Assystem UK seeks a senior ecologist to lead projects, shape best practice and support growth of a high‑performing ecology team within major infrastructure schemes in the UK. You will be embedded in live projects, acting as ecological focal point, managing risks and aligning with programme and commercial objectives.

You will mentor staff, plan resources, and contribute to strategic growth while championing best practice in ecology, health and safety, and regulatory compliance.

Qualifications

• A degree in Ecology, Environmental Science or a related discipline.
• Significant experience in applied ecological consultancy.
• Two European Protected Species licences.
• Strong knowledge of UK wildlife legislation, planning policy and best practice (EIA, HRA, BNG).
• Experience managing teams, budgets and multidisciplinary project delivery.
• Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management membership (Full Membership to be obtained if not held).
• Excellent commercial awareness and client engagement skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead ecological surveys and assessments across housing, infrastructure and energy projects.
• Oversee ecological input in multidisciplinary project teams and ensure compliance with wildlife legislation.
• Mentor ecologists at senior, mid-level and junior grades and manage workloads.
• Support tenders, client presentations and framework bids; monitor budgets and schedules.
• Deliver high-quality technical reports including EIAs, HRAs and Biodiversity Net Gain assessments.

Skills

Team leadership

Client engagement

Report writing

Commercial awareness

Project delivery

Education

Degree in Ecology or Environmental Science

Job description

Assystem UK seeks a senior ecologist to lead projects, shape best practice and support growth of a high‑performing ecology team within major infrastructure schemes in the UK. You will be embedded in live projects, acting as ecological focal point, managing risks and aligning with programme and commercial objectives.

You will mentor staff, plan resources, and contribute to strategic growth while championing best practice in ecology, health and safety, and regulatory compliance.