Principal Ecologist​/Associate Director - Ecology

At Jacobs, we're challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world's most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission-critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting-edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good.

• This is your chance to lead from the front and shape the future of ecology in one of the UK's most dynamic regions.
• In Birmingham, you'll play a key role within the office’s leadership team – providing direction and helping guide how major programmes are delivered across the UK.
• You’ll take on line‑management responsibilities and support the development of a high‑performing team while influencing decisions on nationally significant energy and water infrastructure, major highway and rail schemes.
• Your expertise will directly influence decisions that impact communities, environments and sustainability outcomes for decades to come.
• This isn’t just leadership - this is visible, meaningful impact at scale.

You’ll be trusted to lead, supported to grow, and empowered to make a genuine difference.

• Global reach – collaborate with 600+ ecologists worldwide and tap into unmatched expertise
• Clear progression – structured development through our Global Career Framework & Chartership Academy
• Build your legacy – lead, grow and shape a team in your own vision
• Influence major projects – work with clients like Environment Agency, National Grid, Network Rail & National Highways
• Win and shape future work – play a key role in bidding, strategy and growth
• Be recognised as a leader – represent Jacobs through client engagement, industry presence and thought leadership

You’ll be trusted to lead, supported to grow, and empowered to make a genuine difference.

• Competitive salary We offer compensation that reflects your skills and experience
• 24 days holiday + option to buy a further 10 days
• Robust Pension Contributions We offer enhanced pension contributions up to 10% to secure your future
• Comprehensive Health Coverage Single medical cover and Digital GP service, with options to add your partner and family
• Employee Networks We have a commitment to hiring a diverse workforce and supporting colleagues of different backgrounds
• Family Planning Support Access to fertility healthcare and family planning services
• Enhanced Parental Leave Enjoy enhanced parental leave pay and free membership to employee assistance and parental programs
• Life assurance at 4x your salary
• Income Protection Financial security in case of long‑term illness or injury
• Wellbeing Hub Free access to wellbeing apps like Calm and Daily Burn
• Professional Development We cover professional membership fees and provide continuous professional development (CPD) opportunities
• Community Engagement Participate in charity matched‑funding, paid volunteering time, and charitable donations

We’re looking for a Principal Ecologist or Associate Director to help lead our Birmingham ecology team - a pivotal role within our UK ecology business.

• You’ll combine strategic leadership, technical excellence and people development, working across an exciting portfolio of projects spanning water, transport and energy infrastructure.
• Help steer the strategic direction for the Birmingham ecology team and contribute to UK‑wide leadership
• Act as the go‑to expert, providing high‑quality advice to clients, stakeholders and regulators
• Build strong relationships through extensive client and stakeholder engagement
• Lead and inspire colleagues through empathetic, high‑impact leadership and mentoring
• Apply your technical expertise across EIA, Habitat Regulations Assessment and Biodiversity Net Gain
• Design and oversee ecological monitoring…