Location
Leeds (other locations considered: Newcastle, Manchester, Cambridge, Liverpool, Basingstoke, Croydon, Nottingham, Birmingham, Glasgow, Edinburgh)

Hours
Flexible hybrid working model

Salary
Negotiable

About the Role
Join AECOM's dynamic Nature team as a Principal Ecologist and help shape the future of the environment. You will lead and support the delivery of high-quality ecological consultancy and advisory services to both internal and external clients. Your responsibilities will include planning, scheduling, and organising all phases of ecological project work, ensuring resources, budgets, and controls are in place to meet programme and budget requirements. You will develop technically robust and pragmatic solutions to complex ecological issues, lead and support the production of ecology chapters for environmental statements and protected species licence applications, and author or technically check project deliverables to ensure high-quality outputs. Additionally, you will support the continued development of our technical capabilities.

Become part of a Nature business with around 230 professional experts across arboriculture, forestry, groundwater, surface water, and ecology. Our team includes national and global leaders, species licence holders, and experts in impact assessment, habitat creation, ecosystem restoration, enhancement, and management. At AECOM, you will thrive in an inclusive and forward-thinking environment where your contributions are valued. Enjoy career development opportunities, a flexible hybrid working model, technical practice networks, AECOM University, and volunteering days, all designed to support your future and well-being.

Experience
Proven experience leading and managing ecological surveys, licensing, and impact assessments. Demonstrated ability in work-winning, managing projects and budgets, and leading stakeholder discussions. Experience reviewing technical work and supporting wider team members.

About you
Committed to pushing the limits of what’s possible with a passion for ecology and environmental consultancy. You are a collaborative team player who thrives in an inclusive environment and values diversity. You bring integrity, entrepreneurial spirit, and a pioneering mindset to your work.

Qualifications
Degree or equivalent in ecology or an associated subject. Membership of an appropriate professional institution and working towards or holding Chartered Ecologist or Chartered Environmentalist status. Holder of protected species survey and/or mitigation licences.