Senior Ecologist: Lead Projects, Mentorship & Strategy

Assystem; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 52,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Assystem UK is seeking an experienced ecologist to lead projects, shape best practice, and support the growth of a high-performing ecology team within major UK infrastructure schemes. You will work in a senior, client-facing role combining technical delivery with team leadership and commercial awareness.

You will be embedded in live project environments, managing ecological risks while aligning with programme and budget objectives.

Qualifications

• Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science or related field with significant consultancy experience.
• Two European Protected Species licences.
• Knowledge of UK wildlife legislation, planning policy and best practice including EIA, HRA and BNG.
• Experience managing teams, budgets and multidisciplinary project delivery.
• Membership of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management, with Full Membership to be obtained if not already held.
• Excellent commercial awareness, business planning insight and client engagement skills.
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel to project sites.

Responsibilities

• Lead ecological surveys and assessments, including habitat appraisals, protected species surveys and impact evaluations.
• Oversee ecological input into housing, infrastructure, renewables and energy projects.
• Prepare and review high-quality technical reports, including EIAs, HRAs, mitigation strategies and Biodiversity Net Gain assessments.
• Monitor construction activities to ensure compliance with wildlife legislation and licence conditions.
• Support and lead protected species mitigation strategies and EPS licence applications.
• Investigate ecological incidents and implement proactive risk management measures.
• Deliver ecological briefings and provide clear, practical advice to site teams and project managers.
• Lead, mentor and support ecologists at senior, mid-level and junior grades.

Skills

Ecology knowledge

Team leadership

Budget management

Client engagement

Report writing

Driving licence

Education

Ecology or Environmental Science degree

CIoEE membership (Full membership pursued)

Job description

Assystem UK is seeking an experienced ecologist to lead projects, shape best practice, and support the growth of a high-performing ecology team within major UK infrastructure schemes. You will work in a senior, client-facing role combining technical delivery with team leadership and commercial awareness.

You will be embedded in live project environments, managing ecological risks while aligning with programme and budget objectives.