Location
Leeds (other locations considered: Newcastle, Manchester, Cambridge, Liverpool, Basingstoke, Croydon, Nottingham, St Albans)

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 internal and external clients across a diverse portfolio of projects in power and renewables, infrastructure, environment, and transport sectors. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including landscape, engineering, sustainability, and drainage experts. Key responsibilities include overseeing all phases of ecological project work, managing resources and budgets, developing pragmatic solutions to complex ecological challenges, authoring and reviewing ecology chapters for environmental statements and protected species licence applications, and supporting the development of technical capabilities within the team.

Become part of a team of around 240 professionals with expertise in arboriculture, forestry, groundwater, surface water, and ecology, including national and global leaders. Work on impactful projects such as large solar farms, energy transition initiatives, habitats regulations assessments, and masterplanning for new residential developments. Thrive in an inclusive, forward-thinking environment where your contributions are valued and supported.

Experience
- Proven experience leading and managing ecological surveys, licensing, and impact assessments.
- Demonstrated ability in work-winning, project management, budget oversight, and leading stakeholder discussions.
- Experience reviewing technical work and mentoring team members.

About you
- A motivated and skilled ecologist ready to lead complex projects and contribute to a collaborative team environment.
- Strong communicator with the ability to engage clients and stakeholders effectively.
- Committed to professional development and supporting the growth of technical capabilities within the team.

Qualifications
- Degree or equivalent qualification in ecology or a related subject.
- Membership of an appropriate professional institution.
- Working towards or achieved Chartered Ecologist or Chartered Environmentalist status.
- Holder of protected species survey and/or mitigation licences.