Senior Ecology Consultant

Waterman Group is a leading multidisciplinary consultancy offering sustainable solutions across the property, infrastructure, environment, and energy sectors. We work with both private and public sector clients to deliver projects that make a real difference to the communities we serve.

Our Waterman Ecology team is a CIEEM Registered Ecology Practice exemplifying our depth and breadth of experience and technical excellence.

We are currently looking for a Senior Ecology Consultant to join our Ecology Team in Leeds. This is an exciting opportunity to become part of a dynamic and growing team at the forefront of sustainable design.

The Role

As a Senior Ecology Consultant, you will manage and deliver a variety of ecological assessments and services across projects in diverse sectors, such as regeneration, property development, transport, and public infrastructure. You'll be involved in ecological surveys, preparing reports, providing expert advice, and mentoring junior staff.

Although the position is based in Leeds, the role will involve working collaboratively with other regional teams across the UK, requiring occasional travel.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Lead and deliver ecological surveys, preparing high-quality technical reports, including PEA, EcIA, Biodiversity Net Gain, and BREEAM assessments.
2. Provide expert ecological advice to clients, ensuring compliance with UK ecological legislation and planning policies.
3. Contribute to and support the EIA process, including preparation of Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA).
4. Manage and mentor junior staff, promoting professional development within the team.
5. Work autonomously, with excellent communication and technical report writing skills.
6. Lead ecological project delivery across regeneration, transport, and property development sectors.
7. Prepare fee proposals and contribute to business development activities.
8. Collaborate with teams from other regions for inter-office project delivery.

What We're Looking For:

1. A degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related field.
2. Experience in ecological consultancy or related sectors (further experience for Principal roles).
3. Full Membership of CIEEM and/or Chartered Ecologist status.
4. Strong experience with ecological surveys and species handling.
5. Knowledge of and experience with ecological legislation, conservation, and protected species licensing (holding at least one survey/handling licence is ideal).
6. Experience in delivering technical reports, including PEA, EcIA, and Biodiversity Net Gain assessments.
7. Understanding of the EIA process and contributing to Environmental Statements.
8. Experience in both linear infrastructure and property development projects.
9. Strong leadership and team management abilities.
10. Excellent communication skills, with the ability to prepare fee proposals and technical reports.

Why Join Waterman Infrastructure & Environment in Leeds?

1. Competitive Salary & Benefits: A competitive salary with annual salary reviews based on skills and experience.
2. Hybrid Working: Flexible working arrangements, including both office-based and remote work.
3. Career Progression: Fast-tracked career development opportunities for the right candidates.
4. Training & Development: A supportive culture with access to industry-leading mentoring and professional development.
5. Work-Life Balance: Generous holiday package (26 days per year, rising to 31 with loyalty days), plus bank holidays.
6. Diverse Projects: Play a key role in exciting and varied projects across multiple sectors.
7. Team Environment: Work in a friendly and professional team with a shared commitment to delivering high-quality services.

How to Apply:

If you're excited about ecology and want to contribute to delivering some of the most innovative and impactful projects, we'd love to hear from you. Please send your CV and a covering letter explaining why you'd be a great fit for our team.

All applications will be treated in confidence. Waterman is an equal opportunities employer and values diversity.