Location
St Albans (with UK offices including Manchester, Leeds, Basingstoke, Newcastle, Croydon, Birmingham, Cambridge, Nottingham and Liverpool; other UK locations may be considered)

Hours
Full Time - Hybrid working model offering flexibility between office, remote and client sites

Salary
Negotiable

About the Role
Are you ready to join a talented team of ecologists shaping the future of the environment? Join AECOM’s dynamic Nature team as an Associate Director - Ecology, working on a diverse portfolio of large infrastructure projects across energy, water, renewables, defence and transport sectors, alongside smaller local projects. You will also support national and international initiatives within the wider AECOM Nature team.

In this role, you will lead the planning and delivery of ecological inputs for internal and external clients, 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 and lead consultation with clients, planning authorities, statutory bodies and the public.

You will play a key role in developing technical capabilities, embedding innovation and research, leading bids and tenders for ecological services, and mentoring junior staff and peers. Our supportive environment offers extensive internal and external training opportunities within a nurturing mentoring and coaching framework.

At AECOM, you will thrive in an inclusive, forward-thinking environment where your contributions are valued. Enjoy a range of core and personalised benefits designed to support your well-being and career development, including flexible hybrid working, technical practice networks, AECOM University, and volunteering days.

Join us to help deliver projects that uplift communities, enhance lives, and create a positive, tangible impact around the world.

Experience
Demonstrable experience in planning and delivering ecological services on projects in the UK or Ireland
Excellent field skills in at least one specialist area including protected species licences
Proven ability to lead ecological assessments and deliver proportionate, pragmatic solutions
Experience mentoring and supporting ecology team members

About you
Proactive approach to Health and Safety
Strong leadership and communication skills with ability to engage clients, stakeholders and regulatory bodies
Passionate about innovation and embedding research in ecological practice
Committed to fostering an inclusive and collaborative team environment

Qualifications
Membership of an appropriate professional institution (e.g. CIEEM) with evidence of working towards Chartership
Relevant protected species licences or specialist ecological qualifications
Willingness to continue professional development and training