Senior Ecologist: Lead Projects, Mentor & Stakeholders

New Zealand Government; Wellington; On-site; NZD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

WSP is seeking a Senior or Principal Ecologist to join our Christchurch team as part of the national ecology group. The role focuses on leading ecological projects across freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems, providing technical leadership and mentoring to staff, and expanding our ecology services in New Zealand and beyond.

You will work with clients and multidisciplinary teams to deliver high‑quality outcomes, grow our practice, and contribute to sustainable, long‑term environmental solutions.

Qualifications

• Requires relevant tertiary qualification.
• Ideal 9+ years of professional ecological experience.
• Strong technical, analytical and project management skills.
• Demonstrated experience leading ecological projects and working in multidisciplinary teams.
• Ability to collaborate with clients and stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead ecological projects from field surveys to reporting.
• Provide technical leadership and expert advice on ecological work.
• Mentor and support early career ecologists.
• Collaborate with clients, stakeholders and multi-disciplinary teams.
• Contribute to leadership and growth of the ecology team.
• Build and maintain client relationships and identify new opportunities.

Skills

Ecology

Technical leadership

Project management

Data analysis

Education

Tertiary qualification

Job description

WSP is seeking a Senior or Principal Ecologist to join our Christchurch team as part of the national ecology group. The role focuses on leading ecological projects across freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems, providing technical leadership and mentoring to staff, and expanding our ecology services in New Zealand and beyond.

You will work with clients and multidisciplinary teams to deliver high‑quality outcomes, grow our practice, and contribute to sustainable, long‑term environmental solutions.