Principal Ecologist

Principal Ecologist Based in Kingsbury, Coventry, Birmingham £500 - 600 per day (can operate via Ltd company) 6 month rolling contract The Role: A unique opportunity has arisen for an experienced and driven Ecological Design & Delivery Specialist to play a key part in the delivery of one of the UK's largest and most ambitious infrastructure and environmental projects. Responsibilities: Provide ecological technical expertise and guidance across all stages of design and delivery. Integrate ecological mitigation into civil engineering and landscape designs. Oversee delivery in line with contractual, legislative, and technical standards. Inspire and guide a team of ecologists within the Natural Capital function. Review and assure high-quality ecological reports and deliverables. Design and monitor protected species mitigation measures. Oversee and assure the delivery of habitat creation and enhancement. Lead adaptive management using habitat monitoring data. Resolve design and delivery challenges with proactive, practical solutions. Drive ecological considerations into programme planning and delivery schedules. Ensure designs align with environmental standards, including the Environmental Statement, LEMPs, ESMPs and No Net Loss databases. Support project handover and compliance with protected species licensing. Key Interfaces: Collaborate with internal teams including Design Managers, Environmental Managers, Landscape Architects, and Construction Engineers. Liaise with external stakeholders such as Natural England, Wildlife Trusts, planning authorities, and specialist subcontractors. Experience & Qualifications: Significant experience in ecological design and delivery, ideally on NSIPs or large infrastructure projects. Deep understanding of UK ecological legislation and planning requirements. Proven experience with protected species mitigation and relevant licensing. Excellent project management, organisational and stakeholder engagement skills. Degree (or higher) in ecology or related field. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and GIS platforms. Membership of CIEEM (or eligibility to join). Full UK driver's licence. Experience in engaging with Natural England and stakeholders on mitigation licensing. Desirable: Holder of protected species mitigation licences. Experience aligning designs with habitat monitoring and adaptive management. Knowledge of Schedule 17 submissions and Scheme of Mitigation processes.

Location: Birmingham, UK, GB

Posted Date: 10/30/2025