Senior​/Principal - Field Ecology Lead

About Haskoning

At Haskoning, we are an independent, employee‑owned international consultancy that combines engineering, design, and consultancy services with software and technology. Our mission, "Enhancing Society Together," drives us to create a positive impact on the world.

The team provides ecological survey and assessment, compliance and advisory services, licensing, biodiversity net gain, ecological clerk of works, and habitat restoration design. The work supports EIA and HRA assessments across a wide variety of consent applications. The practice places strong emphasis on learning and development, offering structured training, conference opportunities, company initiatives, and team‑building sessions. As we grow, we are expanding our survey capability across the UK.

We are seeking a Senior / Principal Ecologist with excellent communication skills and strong technical expertise in terrestrial ecology. In this role, you will lead and grow a team of specialists, manage ecological survey work from proposal to report submission, and act as a technical expert throughout the project lifecycle. You will advise on survey design, ecological assessment, and prepare or oversee Ecological Impact Assessments, Protected Species and Habitat Mitigation Strategies, Ecological Management Plans, Protected Species licence applications, Biodiversity Net Gain assessments, Habitats Regulations Assessments, and method statements.

You will have an extensive ecological understanding and 8+ years of demonstrable professional experience working on a range of projects, including conducting and coordinating ecological surveys, collating and analysing biological data, and drafting reports. A relevant degree in ecology, environmental sciences or a similar subject is required.

• Extensive experience in the delivery of:
  • Preliminary Ecological Appraisals
  • Ecological Impact Assessments
  • Protected Species and Habitat Mitigation Strategies
  • Ecological Management Plans
  • Protected Species Licence applications
  • Biodiversity Net Gain Assessments
• Natural England protected species survey licence experience, particularly for bats. Experience as a named ecologist on mitigation licences would be advantageous.
• Full CIEEM membership.
• Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) experience and/or liaising/managing contractors.
• Willingness to travel occasionally and a valid UK driving licence.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, organisational, analytical and time‑management skills.
• Good interpersonal skills.

• Dependable, pro‑active and self‑motivated
• Flexible, adaptive, innovative and willing to develop your career.

We offer a supportive, collaborative, dynamic, and friendly environment. You can grow your career with development opportunities and support on your career path. We provide flexible working models to ensure a work‑life balance, including part‑time options.

A competitive salary of £40,000 to £65,000 (depending on experience) plus a comprehensive benefits package, which you can learn more about here.

Exeter, Edinburgh, London, Newcastle, Peterborough, Liverpool, Manchester

At Haskoning, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered. Our mission of "Enhancing Society Together" drives us to create an environment that embraces every person's unique background, identity, and perspective. Read more about our ED&I initiatives on our dedicated webpage.