Location
Bristol

Hours
Full Time

Salary
Negotiable

About the Role
Arcadis is the world's leading company delivering sustainable design, engineering, and consultancy solutions for natural and built assets. With over 34,000 people across more than 30 countries, we are dedicated to improving quality of life by solving complex challenges together. As a Principal Ecologist, you will join a team of over 50 ecologists with more than 30 years of experience in ecological surveys, assessments, and advice on soil, land use, hydrology, sustainable drainage, arboriculture, ecosystem services, natural capital assessment, biodiversity strategies, metrics, and cultural heritage.

Our portfolio includes over 2,000 projects across the UK, Europe, and beyond, working with public and private clients such as EDF Energy, Welsh Government, Transport for Wales, Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water, Natural Resources Wales, National Grid, the Environment Agency, Transport for London, Highways England, Network Rail, the Canal and River Trust, Housing Associations, and various Local Authorities.

Current projects include Urban and Greenfield Residential Development, Highway and Rail Schemes, Power Stations, and Electrical and Gas Infrastructure. We also engage in international Environmental, Social and Health Impact Assessments and maintain a Natural Capital Community of Practice.

In this role, you will help improve quality of life by applying your expertise in environmental management, technical or sustainability disciplines. Your work may involve protected species, pollution, surface water and materials management, air quality, or noise, often in some of the world’s busiest and most beautiful locations. We are committed to protecting the natural environment and water resources while powering the world for future generations amid challenges such as climate change, urbanization, and biodiversity loss.

Role Accountabilities
As a Principal Ecologist, you will be accountable for quality control, coordination, and completion of assigned tasks and projects within the Business Unit or project team. You will gain experience working on a diverse portfolio of projects, enhancing your skills and technical knowledge. You will lead and manage project delivery to meet time, budgetary, and SHEQ targets, managing ecological aspects of client relationships to exceed expectations. Leadership responsibilities include providing direction, technical advice, and leading by example within the team.

We offer personal development opportunities, including mentoring by industry-recognised Technical Leaders, to support your career progression and success.

Experience
- Detailed knowledge of ecological principles, biodiversity metrics, and relevant environmental and ecological impact assessment (EcIA) legislation, policy, and guidance.
- In-depth knowledge of specific plant or animal groups and appropriate field survey skills.
- Proven track record in delivering Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs), Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments, Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIAs), and Ecology Chapters for Environmental Statements that have been successfully consented.
- Experience in writing project and/or plan-level Habitat Regulation Assessments (HRAs).
- Excellent commercial and project management skills across a range of project sizes.
- Proven experience in bid production and client interaction.
- Ability to line manage and potentially lead a team.
- Hold relevant survey and/or mitigation/conservation licenses.
- Lead in the design and compliance of biosecurity and health and safety protocols.

About You
You are a motivated and experienced ecologist with strong leadership skills and a commitment to delivering high-quality ecological consultancy services. You thrive in a diverse and dynamic environment, enjoy managing client relationships, and are passionate about protecting the natural environment and biodiversity.

Qualifications
- Chartered Environmentalist/Ecologist or demonstrably approaching Chartered Ecologist status.
- Full member of CIEEM.
- Ability to travel when necessary.