Principal Ecologist: Lead Terrestrial Biodiversity

Beca; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Discounted health insurance

Gym membership discounts

Social club activities

Job summary

Beca is seeking a Principal Ecologist to provide strategic ecological leadership across a diverse portfolio in Aotearoa New Zealand, Australia and the Pacific. The role focuses on leading ecological assessments, advising on regulatory and consenting processes, and shaping the ecology capability within the business.

You will mentor ecologists, contribute to business growth and work with multidisciplinary teams to deliver future-focused solutions on nationally significant projects.

Qualifications

• Relevant tertiary qualification with substantial consulting experience.
• Recognised expertise in avifauna, botany, bats, lizards or terrestrial biodiversity.
• Strong knowledge of New Zealand environmental legislation and regulatory frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical leadership across terrestrial ecology projects, guiding assessment approaches and ensuring high-quality delivery.
• Lead and contribute to terrestrial ecological surveys, impact assessments, biodiversity management and mitigation strategies.
• Act as trusted adviser to clients, project teams and stakeholders, delivering pragmatic ecological solutions.

Skills

Ecology leadership

Mentoring others

Regulatory knowledge

Education

Relevant tertiary qualification

Job description

Beca is seeking a Principal Ecologist to provide strategic ecological leadership across a diverse portfolio in Aotearoa New Zealand, Australia and the Pacific. The role focuses on leading ecological assessments, advising on regulatory and consenting processes, and shaping the ecology capability within the business.

You will mentor ecologists, contribute to business growth and work with multidisciplinary teams to deliver future-focused solutions on nationally significant projects.