Senior​/Principal Ecologist

Are you passionate about biodiversity, nature-based solutions and sustainable development? Are you looking for opportunities to work on interesting projects? Do you want to take your career to the next level in ecological consultancy?

We seek experienced and enthusiastic Senior / Principal Ecologists to join our growing, award-winning Ecology team, delivering positive biodiversity outcomes and Biodiversity Net Gain for various projects across the UK. Ideal locations are Reading or Bristol, with opportunities for the right candidates in Warrington and Edinburgh, and flexibility to work from other UK offices.

Our projects range from strategic regeneration schemes, energy and resources projects, to transport and nationally significant infrastructure. The role offers a fantastic opportunity to progress your career in ecological consultancy, working at the heart of multidisciplinary project teams and providing valued ecological consultancy advice to clients to shape outcomes and maximise biodiversity opportunities.

The role is to deliver and oversee ecological mitigation and benefits for various developments, undertake skilled technical reporting, and provide trusted, evidence‑based ecological advice to colleagues and clients. Additionally, you’ll manage the delivery of ecological fieldwork surveys by our network of ecologists.

• Relevant degree in Ecology, Conservation, Earth Sciences or a related environmental discipline
• Full membership of CIEEM or working towards full membership
• Strong working knowledge of UK ecology, legislation and the UK planning system
• Proven experience within a professional ecological consultancy, with a track record of working on complex ecological projects through planning or delivery
• Ability to think creatively and strategically in solving ecological challenges
• Excellent communication skills
• Experience in compiling fee proposals and managing project budgets
• Familiarity with UKHab classification and the BNG Defra Metric and associated reporting requirements
• Demonstrable skills and experience in assessments, including PEA, EcIA, HRA and Biodiversity chapters of Environmental Statements

• Broad understanding of terrestrial ecological issues
• Working towards Chartership (CEnv or CEcol)
• Experience in developing off‑site BNG solutions and sourcing Biodiversity Units
• Understanding of natural capital and ecosystem services
• One or more protected species licences
• Experience in protected species licences

Stantec provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants for current and future employment and prohibits discrimination on the grounds of race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, genetic information, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. We prohibit discrimination in decisions concerning recruitment, hiring, referral, promotion, compensation, fringe benefits, job training, terminations or any other condition of employment.

Stantec is in compliance with laws and regulations and ensures equitable opportunities in all aspects of employment.