Ecologist in Cardiff

Arup’s purpose, shared values and collaborative approach has set us apart for over 75 years, guiding how we shape a better world. Arup is an independent firm of designers, planners, engineers, architects, consultants and technical specialists, working across every aspect of today’s built environment. The Midlands and West Nature team comprises 35 experienced ecologists and other nature consultants, within a wider multi‑disciplinary Climate and Sustainability Services consulting team. We deliver an effective and professional service to a wide range of public and private clients, both in the UK and internationally. We have a strong pipeline of diverse and exciting projects including design and assessment of renewable energy, water industry and transport projects; biodiversity strategy and policy development; due diligence and corporate biodiversity reporting. Due to the nature of our work, you will have the opportunity to develop a broad range of skills throughout your employment.

The Opportunity

We are currently looking to recruit two Ecologists on a permanent contract into our Midlands and West Nature team, to be based either in Birmingham, Bristol or Cardiff.

Responsibilities

• Authoring Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEA), baseline species survey reports, Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA) and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments.
• Supporting the preparation of Habitats Regulations Assessments, Environmental Statements and mitigation strategies for major development projects.
• Researching and preparing advice on biodiversity design, restoration/enhancement and integration of green infrastructure design and other nature‑based solutions to secure biodiversity gain and strengthen climate change resilience measures.
• Planning, managing and undertaking field survey work, such as Phase 1 Habitat/UKHab surveys and protected species surveys (e.g. great crested newt, bats and badger).
• Analysis and interpretation of ecological survey results using a range of software within sound analysis and GIS.
• Application of BNG and other metrics, natural capital / environmental net gain studies, site and corporate biodiversity strategies, TNFD, IFC Performance Standard 6 and nature‑related policies; managing small projects and the input of ecological subcontractors.

Qualifications

• Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject, such as Ecology, Zoology, Geography or Biology (or equivalent).
• A postgraduate qualification in a relevant discipline, such as an MSc in Ecological Consultancy, is advantageous but not essential.
• Field skills (established or developing) in UK Hab/ Phase 1 habitat surveys, bat, dormouse, badger, riparian mammals, reptile and great crested newt surveys.
• Sound understanding of the main legislation and policy that typically drives the requirement for ecological survey, assessment and mitigation in relation to development.
• Experience of drafting ecological reports and undertaking metric calculations.
• Interest in professional development in wider nature consulting services such as natural capital / environmental net gain studies, site and corporate biodiversity strategies, policy development and environmental and social impact assessment for international projects.
• Experience of digital data management and analysis including working with ArcGIS.
• The position may entail travelling so a driving licence is important.

Application Process

Please email Karin Spies at karin.spies@arup.com. To maintain GDPR compliance, do not send your CV directly via this email. Closing date: Friday 23 January 2026.

What we offer you

At Arup, we care about each member’s success, so we can grow together. Guided by our values, we provide an attractive total reward package that recognizes the contribution of each of our members to our shared success. As well as competitive, fair and equitable pay, we offer a career in which all of our members can belong, grow and thrive – through benefits that support health and wellbeing, a wide range of learning opportunities and many possibilities to have an impact through the work they do. We also provide private medical insurance, life assurance, accident insurance and income protection cover. In addition, you’ll have access to flexible benefits to help you look after all aspects of your wellbeing and give you the freedom and flexibility to find the best solutions for you, your family, and your individual needs.

Equal Opportunity

Arup is an equal‑opportunity employer that actively promotes and nurtures a diverse and inclusive workforce. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, regardless of age (within legal limits), gender identity or expression, marital status, disability, neurotype or mental health, race or ethnicity, faith or belief, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, and whether you’re pregnant or on family leave. We are an open environment that embraces diverse experiences, perspectives, and ideas – this drives our excellence. Guided by our values and alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, we create and contribute to equitable spaces and systems, while cultivating a sense of belonging for all. Our internal employee networks support our inclusive culture: from race, ethnicity and cross‑cultural working to gender equity and LGBTQ+ and disability inclusion – we aim to create a space for you to express yourself and make a positive difference.

We are committed to making our recruitment process and workplaces accessible to all candidates. Please contact Karin Spies at karin.spies@arup.com to let us know if you need any assistance or reasonable adjustments throughout your application or interview process, and/or to perform the essential functions of the role. We will do everything we can to support you.