
Location
Bristol & Exeter
Hours
Full Time
Salary
Competitive
About the Role
Arcadis is a global team of over 34,000 people across more than 30 countries, dedicated to improving quality of life. As a Senior or Principal Ecologist, you will join a team of over 50 ecologists with more than 30 years of experience delivering 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 extensive portfolio includes over 2,000 projects across the UK, Europe, and beyond, working with public and private clients on diverse projects such as urban and greenfield residential developments, highway and rail schemes, power stations, and electrical and gas infrastructure.
Currently, we are engaged with clients including EDF Energy, Welsh Government, Transport for Wales, Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water, Natural Resources Wales, National Grid, Environment Agency, Transport for London, Highways England, Network Rail, Canal and River Trust, Housing Associations, and various Local Authorities. We also contribute internationally through Environmental, Social and Health Impact Assessments and our Natural Capital Community of Practice.
As part of our Environmental team, your expertise in environmental management, technical or sustainability fields will support projects involving protected species, pollution, surface water and materials management, air quality, and noise. You will work in some of the world’s busiest and most beautiful locations, helping to protect natural environments and water resources while addressing challenges such as climate change, urbanization, and biodiversity loss.
In this role, 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 across a varied portfolio, enhancing your skills and technical knowledge. As a Principal Consultant, you will lead and manage project delivery to meet time, budgetary, and SHEQ targets, managing ecological client relationships to exceed expectations. You will provide leadership, technical advice, and direction within projects and teams, supported by personal development opportunities and mentorship from industry-recognised Technical Leaders.
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 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 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 design and compliance of biosecurity and health and safety protocols.
About you
Chartered Environmentalist/Ecologist or demonstrably approaching Chartered Ecologist status. Full member of CIEEM. Ability and willingness to travel when necessary. Strong leadership skills with a commitment to delivering high-quality ecological advice and client service.
Qualifications
Chartered status or working towards it (CIEEM membership). Relevant ecological or environmental qualifications supporting your expertise and professional development.
Arcadis





















