Principal Ecologist Wide

Market Environmental

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.

Are you ready to take your ecological career to the next level? Join Jacobs’ UK Ecology Team as a Principal Ecologist and become part of a dynamic, forward‑thinking organisation that’s making a real impact – locally and globally.

We’re hiring nationwide, with opportunities available in our offices across Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, London, Manchester, Newcastle, Peterborough and Reading. Wherever you’re based, you’ll find a welcoming team and exciting projects waiting for you.

• Deliver major infrastructure projects across water, transport, and energy sectors for clients such as Anglian Water, National Highways, Network Rail, and more.
• Apply expertise in Environmental Impact Assessment, Habitats Regulations Assessment, and/or Biodiversity Net Gain.
• Collaborate across disciplines, ensuring ecological requirements are integrated into project design and delivery.
• Lead ecological monitoring programmes, manage surveys and ensure high‑quality data collection.
• Provide expert advice, acting as the main point of contact for clients and stakeholders on large‑scale projects.
• Build cross‑functional networks, working with specialists across geographies and cultures to develop effective solutions.
• Mentor and share knowledge through global communities of practice, conferences, and training events.
• Progression is supported in both line‑management and technical routes; management is optional.

• Strong background in terrestrial ecology with significant industry experience.
• Chartered membership (or eligibility) of a relevant professional body.
• Proven track record in leading ecological input on large‑scale projects.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with sharp attention to detail.
• High level of personal accountability and professionalism.
• A technical specialism in terrestrial ecology, or broad experience with the ability to adapt quickly to new areas.

• Competitive salary and flexible working options (full‑time, part‑time, job share, or flexible basis).
• Up to 10% company contribution to pension.
• Reimbursement for professional development and memberships.
• Community engagement through the Collectively programme – matched funding, paid volunteering and charitable donations.
• Opportunity to buy/sell annual leave.
• Well‑being support including free employee medical cover, digital GP service, mindfulness platform, confidential counselling, and financial planning.
• Enhanced parental leave pay and fertility healthcare benefits.
• Work‑life balance with hybrid, part‑time, flexible hours, compressed schedules, annualised hour contracts, and desk‑based roles.

Our values are grounded in safety, integrity, inclusion, belonging and diversity. We believe in supporting one another through a culture of caring, valuing positive mental health and creating an inclusive workplace where every employee can thrive. We accept people for who they are, and we champion diversity across age, disability, gender identity, religion, socioeconomic background and more. We support neurodiversity with specialised training, offer childcare and parental programmes, and provide flexible working arrangements to support all staff.