Ecologist

Overview

Jacobs is looking for an Ecologist to join our Manchester office as part of a national specialist Ecologist cohort. The role combines desk and site‑based tasks across the UK, supporting major infrastructure projects such as water, highways, rail, and energy schemes for clients including Anglian Water, National Highways, Thames Water, and Network Rail.

• Deliver technical work on challenging, diverse, and innovative infrastructure projects.
• Conduct protected species surveys, environmental impact assessments, habitats regulations assessments, and biodiversity net gain activities.
• Serve as Ecological Clerk of Works on site, ensuring terrestrial ecology requirements are recognised and acted upon.
• Collaborate within multidisciplinary teams and build rapport with internal and external stakeholders, including environmental regulators.
• Prepare clear, concise technical reports and briefings.

• Background in terrestrial ecology with relevant industry experience, including technical reporting and impact assessment in accordance with national legislation and guidance.
• Associate membership of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (or equivalent, or experience to obtain membership).
• Proficiency as an ecology surveyor and strong field scientific skills.
• Excellent written communication and the ability to work well within a team.
• Hands‑on work ethic, self‑awareness, and a willingness to learn.

• Current full driving licence.
• Specialised technical knowledge in habitats, bats, or ecological clerk of works, with a track record of quick adaptation to other ecological interests.

Jacobs offers a competitive package and a range of benefits designed to support employees’ career, health, and well‑being.

• Up to 10 % company pension contribution.
• Reimbursement for professional development and memberships.
• Community contribution through the Collectively programme – matched‑funding, paid volunteering time, and charitable donations.
• Annual leave buy/sell options.
• Well‑being support and resources:
  • Free employee medical cover and digital GP service, including support for ASD, ADHD, and Tourette syndrome.
  • A mindfulness platform.
  • One‑to‑one counselling consultations and confidential information services.
  • Online fitness platform via Daily Burn.
  • Personalised financial planning and support.
• Fertility and family benefits:
  • Enhanced parental leave pay.
  • Fertility healthcare support via Carrot.
  • Neurodiversity training and parental support via Rethink Care Family.
  • Bridge the Gap parental transition programme.

We support a range of flexible working patterns.

• Part‑time roles.
• Flexible hours, including compressed schedules.
• Annualised hours contracts with defined yearly totals.
• Time‑off in lieu to maintain rest between busy periods.

As a disability‑confident employer, we interview candidates who best meet the criteria and welcome applicants seeking flexible working. Reasonable adjustments can be made to the recruitment process; please contact Careers Support for further assistance.