Senior Ecologist

Company Description Assystem is a global engineering and digital services company that plays a key role in large infrastructure projects, especially those related to complex, highly regulated industries. In the infrastructure sector, Assystem works across various domains to support the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of critical infrastructure.

As global challenges related to climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainable development intensify, the role of ecological expertise has never been more critical. Our growing ecology practice is at the forefront of delivering practical solutions that promote environmental resilience, biodiversity conservation, and responsible land use.

We support a wide range of projects—from infrastructure development and renewable energy to habitat restoration and environmental planning—by integrating ecological principles into every phase of design and decision-making. Our team of ecologists work closely with clients, communities, and stakeholders to ensure that development and conservation go hand in hand.

With a strong focus on innovation, regulatory compliance, and long-term ecological health, we are committed to advancing a more sustainable and nature-positive future.

Job Description Are you an experienced ecologist ready to lead projects, shape best practice and support the growth of a high-performing team? At Assystem UK, you will take on a senior, client-facing role that combines technical delivery with team leadership and commercial awareness across major infrastructure and development schemes in the UK.

The Role You will be embedded within live project environments, supporting planning, consenting, construction and operational phases. Acting as the ecological focal point within multidisciplinary teams, you will ensure ecological risks are managed pragmatically while maintaining programme and commercial objectives.

Alongside leading complex projects, you will play a key role in strengthening and developing the ecology practice. You will mentor colleagues, support resource planning and contribute to strategic growth, helping to position ecology as a trusted and commercially successful discipline within the wider business.

What You Will Be Doing:

Project Delivery and Technical Leadership Lead ecological surveys and assessments, including habitat appraisals, protected species surveys and impact evaluations

Oversee ecological input into housing, infrastructure, renewables and energy projects

Prepare and review high-quality technical reports, including EIAs, HRAs, mitigation strategies and Biodiversity Net Gain assessments

Monitor construction activities to ensure compliance with wildlife legislation and licence conditions

Support and lead protected species mitigation strategies and EPS licence applications

Investigate ecological incidents and implement proactive risk management measures

Deliver ecological briefings and provide clear, practical advice to site teams and project managers

Team and Practice Leadership Lead, mentor and support ecologists at senior, mid-level and junior grades

Align team resourcing with project demands, managing workloads and supporting recruitment where required

Champion best practice in ecology, health and safety, quality assurance and legislative compliance

Contribute to the continuous improvement of technical standards and delivery processes

Strategic and Commercial Contribution Support work-winning activities including tenders, fee proposals, client presentations and framework bids Monitor project budgets, programme delivery and resource forecasts

Contribute to practice growth plans aligned with wider business objectives

Build strong relationships with clients, regulators and collaborators, acting as a trusted senior contact

Qualifications

What You Will BringA degree in Ecology, Environmental Science or a related discipline, supported by significant experience in applied ecological consultancy. You will also bring:

Two European Protected Species licences

Strong knowledge of UK wildlife legislation, planning policy and best practice including EIA, HRA and BNGExperience managing teams, budgets and multidisciplinary project…