Location
Scotland (Hybrid working possible with office presence where other Environmental colleagues are based)

Hours
Full Time (flexible working models including part time options available)

Salary
Negotiable

About the Role
At Haskoning, you will join an independent, employee-owned international consultancy combining engineering, design, and consultancy services with software and technology. Our mission, "Enhancing Society Together," drives us to create a positive impact on the world through diverse international projects leveraging over 140 years of expertise. As a Principal Consultant - Ecology, you will lead the delivery of complex terrestrial ecology projects and provide technical leadership across a broad portfolio of work. You will oversee and deliver protected species surveys and wider ecological assessments, supporting projects from early feasibility and bid stages through to planning, construction, and post-consent delivery. Acting as a technical lead and mentor within the ecology team, you will ensure high-quality outputs and support the development of junior colleagues. Your responsibilities will include providing expert ecological advice throughout all project lifecycle stages, including preparation and review of Ecological Impact Assessments, Habitats Regulations Assessments, Protected Species and Habitat Mitigation Strategies, Ecological Management Plans, Biodiversity Net Gain Assessments, Protected Species Licence applications, and Method Statements. You will also support project management, client engagement, and business development activities, helping to identify opportunities, prepare proposals, and maintain strong client relationships. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams across major infrastructure, renewable energy, and development projects will be key, providing pragmatic and innovative solutions to ecological constraints while supporting sustainable project delivery and wider biodiversity net gain.

What We Offer You
We provide a stimulating and collaborative environment where people come first and you are empowered to shape your career path. Our UK Terrestrial Ecology Practice emphasizes continued professional development, technical excellence, and knowledge sharing. As an employee-owned business, we invest in our staff through structured training, mentoring, conference/event attendance opportunities, involvement in company initiatives including innovation and sustainability programmes, and in-person Ecology Practice team building sessions. As a Principal Ecologist, you will have the opportunity to contribute strategically to the growth and direction of the ecology team, supporting business development, mentoring colleagues, and shaping technical standards and best practice across the Practice. You can expect a dynamic and supportive workplace with development opportunities and flexible working arrangements to balance family and work life. At Haskoning, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered.

Experience
Extensive ecological consultancy experience with over 10 years working across a range of development projects, including design and management of ecological surveys, technical report writing, and project delivery. Substantial experience preparing and reviewing Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, Ecological Impact Assessments, Protected Species and Habitat Mitigation Strategies, Ecological Management Plans, Habitats Regulations Assessments, Protected Species Licence applications, and Biodiversity Net Gain Assessments. Experience undertaking and managing a variety of ecological surveys. Holds one or more Natural England protected species survey licences. Experience as a mitigation licence holder or named ecologist on mitigation licences is advantageous. Proven experience managing projects, budgets, and client relationships. Experience mentoring and supporting junior team members.

About You
You are a proactive and dependable technical specialist with strong leadership, mentoring, and client-facing skills. Adaptable, commercially aware, and motivated to contribute to the continued growth and development of the team. Excellent written and verbal communication, organisational, analytical, and time management skills. Strong interpersonal and stakeholder management skills. Willingness to travel occasionally and hold a valid UK driving licence.

Qualifications
Relevant degree in ecology, environmental science, or a related discipline (equivalent non-degree qualifications will also be considered). Full membership of CIEEM (CEcol or CEnv desirable).