Principal Ecologist

Crayside Consulting is an innovative multi-disciplinary design and survey consultancy focused on delivering high-quality solutions within critical infrastructure sectors. With expertise across various disciplines such as MEP, Civils & Structural, Architectural, Environmental, BIM, and Earthing & Lightning Protection, the company provides comprehensive and tailored solutions to its clients. Crayside Consulting is dedicated to implementing sustainable and effective practices to meet project needs.

The organization combines forward-thinking strategies with in-depth surveying to achieve excellence in every project.

This is an exciting role for a Principal Ecologist as the first step in creating an ecology team within the wider Environment Team at Crayside Consulting. Day-to-day responsibilities include managing projects, coordinating with multidisciplinary teams, producing detailed ecological reports, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. The role also involves developing the capability and capacity of the team and then mentoring team members and supporting the development of innovative ecological solutions.

This is a full-time role for a Principal Ecologist, located in one of our offices in London, Basingstoke or Ipswich, reporting to the Environmental Services Director.

• Proven expertise in Wildlife and Botany, with a strong understanding of biodiversity principles and conservation.
• Lead and manage ecological projects from inception to completion (including those undertaken by sub-consultants), ensuring compliance with UK legislation.
• Design and oversee ecological surveys, including Phase 1 and Phase 2 habitat assessments, protected species surveys, Habitat Regulation Assessments (HRAs) and BNG Assessment.
• Develop and implement mitigation strategies and biodiversity net gain plans for infrastructure and development projects.
• Prepare and review technical reports, Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), and Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs).
• Advise clients and project teams on ecological constraints during planning, design, and construction phases.
• Obtain and manage ecological licences and consents for protected species.
• Provide expert input at client, stakeholder, and technical meetings.
• Mentor and support junior ecologists, fostering professional development and quality assurance.
• Support bid preparation and contribute to business development, initially within the rail sector.
• Strong Report Writing skills with attention to detail, accuracy, and clarity.
• Excellent leadership and project management abilities, including the capacity to mentor and guide team members.
• Familiarity with UK environmental policies, regulations, and best practices in ecology and sustainability.
• Proficiency in GIS or similar mapping software is an advantage.
• A degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, Biology, or a related field; relevant professional accreditations are desirable.
• Experience of projects within the rail sector would be beneficial.