Senior Ecology Consultant

Waterman Group; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A multidisciplinary consultancy in Manchester is seeking a Senior Ecology Consultant to manage ecological services on diverse projects. You will lead ecological surveys, mentor junior staff, and ensure high-quality reports. Ideal candidates hold a degree in Ecology or Environmental Science and have substantial experience in ecological consultancy. This role offers competitive salary, flexible working options, and the chance to work on impactful projects.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits

Hybrid working options

Ongoing professional development

Generous holiday allowance

Supportive team culture

Qualifications

• A degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• Experience in ecological consultancy or a related sector.
• Full Membership of CIEEM and/or Chartered Ecologist status.
• Strong experience in ecological survey work and species handling.
• Proficient in technical report writing.

Responsibilities

• Lead ecological surveys and provide technical advice.
• Manage and develop ecological projects across various sectors.
• Contribute to the EIA process and undertake Ecological Impact Assessments.
• Mentor junior staff.
• Prepare fee proposals and manage client expectations.

Skills

Ecological survey work

Technical report writing

Client relationship management

Mentoring junior staff

Education

Degree in Ecology or Environmental Science

Tools

BREEAM assessments

Ecological Impact Assessments

Job description

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At Waterman Group, we are committed to delivering sustainable, innovative projects that make a positive impact across the UK and beyond. As a multidisciplinary consultancy, we specialize in projects across various sectors, including regeneration, property development, transport, and public services.

Our Waterman Ecology team is a CIEEM Registered Ecology Practice exemplifying our depth and breadth of experience and technical excellence.

We are currently seeking a Senior Ecology Consultant to join our growing team in Manchester. This is an exciting opportunity to work with a dynamic and forward-thinking team on a wide range of projects, including infrastructure, residential, and commercial developments. As part of our expanding national workload, you will be an integral part of delivering high-profile ecological services in a collaborative, supportive environment.

The Role

As a Senior Ecology Consultant, you’ll manage and deliver ecological services on diverse projects, including preparing and reviewing reports, conducting surveys, and providing ecological advice to our clients. You will work alongside other consultants, and you’ll have the opportunity to lead and mentor junior staff, contribute to business development, and collaborate with other regional teams.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead ecological surveys, provide technical advice, and deliver high-quality reports (PEA, EcIA, Biodiversity Net Gain, BREEAM assessments).

• Manage and develop a range of ecological projects across regeneration, property, transport, and public sectors.

• Contribute to the EIA process and undertake Ecological Impact Assessments.

• Mentor junior staff and assist with their professional development.

• Maintain strong relationships with clients and stakeholders, providing commercially aware ecological advice.

• Prepare fee proposals and manage client expectations effectively.

• Review and contribute to technical reports, ensuring high standards and compliance with relevant regulations.

• Stay up-to-date with ecological legislation, planning policy, and best practices.

• Collaborate with other regional teams, with occasional travel to offices and projects across the UK.

What We’re Looking For:

• A degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related field.

• Experience in ecological consultancy or a related sector (further experience required for the Principal role).

• Full Membership of CIEEM and/or Chartered Ecologist status.

• Strong experience in ecological survey work and species handling.

• Proficiency in technical report writing (EcIA, PEA, Biodiversity Net Gain, and BREEAM).

• An understanding of the EIA process and experience contributing to Environmental Statements would be advantageous.

• Ability to lead and manage teams, mentoring junior staff.

• Excellent communication and report writing skills, with the ability to prepare fee proposals.

• A solid understanding of conservation legislation and protected species licensing (ideally holding at least one survey/handling licence for a protected species).

• Experience with both linear infrastructure and property development projects.

Why Join Waterman Infrastructure & Environment in Manchester?

• Competitive Salary & Benefits: Salary reviewed annually based on skills and experience.

• Hybrid Working: Flexible work-from-home options with regular office collaboration.

• Career Progression: Fast-tracked career development with the opportunity to take on leadership roles.

• Training & Development: Access to ongoing professional development and mentoring support from industry experts.

• Work-Life Balance: Generous holiday allowance (26 days per year, rising to 31 with loyalty days), plus bank holidays.

• Exciting Projects: Opportunity to work on a wide variety of impactful, high-profile projects.

• Team Culture: A supportive, friendly, and inclusive team environment with regular social and team-building activities.

Our Office Location:

The Manchester office is centrally located, with excellent transport links and a vibrant area full of shops, cafes, and restaurants.

How to Apply:

If you’re passionate about ecology and excited to be part of a collaborative team, we’d love to hear from you. Please send your CV and a covering letter explaining why you’d be a great fit for our team to , or complete and submit the form below.

All applications will be treated in confidence. Waterman is an equal opportunities employer and values diversity.