Location
Croydon (Hybrid working model with flexibility to work from other UK & Ireland offices including Manchester, Leeds, Basingstoke, Newcastle, Glasgow, Belfast, Cambridge, Nottingham, Bristol, Liverpool and other locations across the UK may be considered)

Hours
Full Time

Salary
Competitive salary and benefits package

About the Role
Join AECOM’s dynamic Nature team as an Associate Director - Ecology and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the environment. You will lead the planning and delivery of ecological inputs for a diverse portfolio of projects across sectors such as energy, water, renewables, defence, and transport. Our team works on large infrastructure projects as well as smaller local initiatives, supporting national and international efforts. Your responsibilities will 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 solutions, lead client and stakeholder consultations, and contribute to the development of our technical capabilities by embedding innovation and research. Additionally, you will lead bids and tenders for ecological services and mentor junior staff and peers within a supportive mentoring and coaching framework. At AECOM, you will thrive in an inclusive environment that values your contributions and offers extensive career development opportunities, flexible hybrid working, and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and future growth.

Experience
Demonstrable experience in planning and delivering ecological services on projects within the UK or Ireland; excellent field skills in at least one specialist area including protected species licences; experience mentoring and supporting ecology team members; proactive approach to Health and Safety.

About you
Passionate about innovation and environmental impact; strong leadership and communication skills; ability to engage with clients, planning authorities, statutory bodies, and the public; motivated to contribute to technical development and research; committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse work environment.

Qualifications
Membership of an appropriate professional institution (such as CIEEM) with evidence of working towards Chartership or equivalent professional recognition; well-developed understanding of relevant wildlife conservation legislation and best practices.