Remote Associate Director - Ecology

Overview

Join our dynamic Nature team as an Associate Ecologist in our growing Cambridge, Basingstoke, St Albans, Croydon, Leeds, Nottingham, Newcastle, Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, Exeter, Dublin, and Cork (though other locations may be considered), and benefit through our flexible hybrid working model.

At AECOM, we deliver an exceptional portfolio of Ecology programs and projects through long‑term partnerships with key clients. Our recent and current ecology projects include:

• Baseline survey and ecological impact assessments in support of some of the largest solar farms to have gained consent in the UK
• Habitat and protected species surveys in support of new and upgraded electricity network infrastructure;
• Large‑scale woodland bat population monitoring using trapping and tracking techniques;
• Ecological constraints and opportunities analysis to inform the master planning of proposed new communities;
• Habitats Regulations Assessments (HRAs) of various plans and projects for local authorities.

• Lead the planning and delivery of ecological inputs for both internal and external clients;
• Produce and technically review a range of ecological assessments including Preliminary Ecological Appraisal, Protected Species Baseline Reports, Ecological Impact Assessments, Habitats Regulations Assessment, and Biodiversity Net Gain Calculations;
• Provide technical leadership to support the delivery of proportionate and pragmatic solutions;
• Lead consultation and engagement with clients and key project stakeholders including planning authorities, statutory bodies and the public;
• Play a key role in the continued development of our technical capabilities and encourage the embedding of innovation/research;
• Lead the production of bids and tenders for ecological services;
• Mentor and support both junior staff and peers.

• Degree (or equivalent) in ecology or an associated subject.
• Membership of an appropriate professional institution and working towards or obtained Chartered Ecologist or Chartered Environmentalist status, and an holder of protected species survey and/or mitigation licences.
• Excellent knowledge of relevant wildlife legislation and policy, and reporting skills.
• Experience of leading and managing ecological surveys/licensing/impact assessment (as relevant to your areas of specialisms) as demonstrated by suitable professional experience.
• Experience in managing projects, project budgets and leading stakeholder discussions, and bidding/tendering.
• Experience of reviewing/verifying technical work and supporting wider team members.

You’ll enjoy a range of core and personalised benefits designed to support your future and well‑being, customised to fit your lifestyle. Take advantage of career development opportunities, our flexible hybrid working model to ensure a work‑life balance that suits your lifestyle, technical practice networks, AECOM University, and volunteering days.

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in each person's potential, and we’ll help you reach yours.