Location
Croydon (Hybrid working model with options to work from AECOM offices, remote locations or client sites across the UK and Ireland including Manchester, Leeds, Basingstoke, Newcastle, Glasgow, Belfast, Cambridge, Nottingham, Bristol and Liverpool)

Hours
Full Time (flexible hybrid working model to support work-life balance)

Salary
Competitive salary and benefits package tailored to support your future and well-being

About the Role
Join AECOM’s dynamic Nature team as an Associate Director - Ecology and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of environmental consultancy. You will lead the planning and delivery of ecological inputs for a diverse portfolio of projects spanning large infrastructure developments in energy, water, renewables, defence, and transport sectors, as well as smaller local projects. Your expertise will support both national and international initiatives within the wider AECOM Nature team.

Key responsibilities include producing and technically reviewing ecological assessments such as Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, Protected Species Baseline Reports, Ecological Impact Assessments, Habitats Regulations Assessments, and Biodiversity Net Gain Calculations. You will provide technical leadership to deliver pragmatic, proportionate solutions, lead client and stakeholder consultations, and drive innovation and research within the team.

As a senior member of the team, you will also lead bids and tenders for ecological services and mentor junior staff and peers within a supportive mentoring and coaching framework. AECOM offers extensive internal and external training opportunities to support your professional growth.

Become part of a team of around 150 ecology professionals across the UK and Ireland, including national and global leaders in species licensing, impact assessment, habitat creation, ecosystem restoration, and management. At AECOM, you will thrive in an inclusive, forward-thinking environment where your contributions are valued and your career development is supported.

Experience
- Demonstrable experience in planning and delivery of ecological services on projects in the UK or Ireland
- Excellent field skills in at least one specialist area including any protected species licences
- Proven track record in producing and reviewing ecological assessments and leading ecological inputs on complex projects
- Experience mentoring and supporting ecology team members
- Strong understanding of relevant wildlife conservation legislation and best practices
- Proactive approach to Health and Safety

About you
- Passionate about innovation and delivering pragmatic ecological solutions
- Strong leadership and communication skills with ability to engage clients, stakeholders, and regulatory bodies
- Motivated to contribute to a collaborative and inclusive team environment
- Committed to continuous professional development and supporting others’ growth

Qualifications
- Membership of an appropriate professional institution (e.g., CIEEM) with evidence of working towards Chartered status or equivalent
- Relevant protected species licences or willingness to obtain them
- Relevant academic qualifications in ecology, environmental science, or related discipline