Senior HRA & Ecology Specialist

Arup; Newcastle; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Profit Sharing

Private Medical Insurance

Life Assurance

Accident Insurance

Income Protection

Flexible Benefits

Job summary

Arup is seeking an experienced ecologist with strong Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA) expertise to join our national ecology team. You will lead HRA work across strategic planning, infrastructure, water, energy and nature projects, collaborating with planners and environmental specialists across the UK and Ireland.

You will navigate a complex regulatory landscape, contribute to policy and planning reform, and help shape Arup's approach to HRA practice while delivering high-quality

Qualifications

• Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science or a related discipline.
• MCIEEM or equivalent.
• Strong experience preparing, reviewing and advising on HRA for plans and projects.
• Excellent understanding of Habitat Regulations, guidance and case law.
• Experience assessing impact pathways including recreation, air quality, water quality, hydrology and biodiversity.

Responsibilities

• Be a trusted technical authority on HRA for plans and projects.
• Lead and deliver high-quality HRA assessments across diverse portfolios.
• Engage with clients, regulators and project teams to drive alignment.
• Apply ecological evidence to planning, consent and environmental assessment processes.
• Support growth of Arup's national HRA capability and share knowledge.

Skills

HRA expertise

Report writing

Regulatory liaison

Ecology knowledge

Planning experience

Policy interpretation

Stakeholder engagement

Analytical thinking

Education

Degree in Ecology or Environmental Science

MCIEEM or equivalent

Job description

Arup is seeking an experienced ecologist with strong Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA) expertise to join our national ecology team. You will lead HRA work across strategic planning, infrastructure, water, energy and nature projects, collaborating with planners and environmental specialists across the UK and Ireland.

You will navigate a complex regulatory landscape, contribute to policy and planning reform, and help shape Arup's approach to HRA practice while delivering high-quality