At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex ecology projects and mentor junior colleagues while providing expert ecological advice.
- Company: Join Haskoning, an employee-owned consultancy focused on enhancing society through innovative solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, professional development, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for growth and involvement in company initiatives.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on biodiversity and sustainability in diverse international projects.
- Qualifications: 10+ years of ecological consultancy experience and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 70000 € per year.
About Haskoning
At Haskoning, you will join an independent, employee‑owned international consultancy that combines engineering, design, and consultancy services with software and technology. Our mission, “Enhancing Society Together,” drives us to create a positive impact on the world. We offer purpose‑driven and challenging work in diverse international projects, leveraging our 140+ years of expertise. With over 6,800 employees in more than 25 countries, we work together to turn challenges into opportunities and make a real impact on society.
What will you do as a Principal Ecologist
As our new Principal Ecologist, you will lead the delivery of complex terrestrial ecology projects and provide technical leadership across a broad portfolio of work. You will oversee and deliver protected species surveys and wider ecological assessments, supporting projects from early feasibility and bid stages through to planning, construction and post‑consent delivery. You will act as a technical lead and mentor within the ecology team, ensuring high‑quality outputs and supporting the development of junior colleagues. You will provide expert ecological advice throughout all stages of the project lifecycle, including the preparation and review of:
- Ecological Impact Assessments
- Habitats Regulations Assessments
- Protected Species and Habitat Mitigation Strategies
- Ecological Management Plans
- Biodiversity Net Gain Assessments
- Protected Species Licence applications
- Method Statements
You will also support project management, client engagement and business development activities, helping to identify opportunities, prepare proposals and maintain strong client relationships. In addition, you will collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams across major infrastructure, renewable energy and development projects, providing pragmatic and innovative solutions to ecological constraints while supporting sustainable project delivery and wider biodiversity net gain.
What you bring
You will have extensive ecological consultancy experience, typically with over 10 years of experience working across a range of development projects, including the design and management of ecological surveys, technical report writing and project delivery. You will hold a relevant degree in ecology, environmental science or a related discipline (equivalent non‑degree qualifications will also be considered). You are a proactive and dependable technical specialist with strong leadership, mentoring and client‑facing skills. You are adaptable, commercially aware and motivated to contribute to the continued growth and development of the team. You will have substantial experience in the preparation and review of:
- Preliminary Ecological Appraisals
- Ecological Impact Assessments
- Protected Species and Habitat Mitigation Strategies
- Ecological Management Plans
- Habitats Regulations Assessments
- Protected Species Licence applications
- Biodiversity Net Gain Assessments
Furthermore, you will also have experience undertaking and managing a variety of ecological surveys. Holds one or more Natural England protected species survey licences. Experience as a mitigation licence holder or named ecologist on mitigation licences would be advantageous. Full membership of CIEEM (CEcol or CEnv desirable). Experience in managing projects, budgets and client relationships. Experience mentoring and supporting junior team members. A willingness to travel occasionally and a valid UK driving licence. Excellent written and verbal communication, organisational, analytical and time management skills. Strong interpersonal and stakeholder management skills.
What we offer you
We offer you a stimulating and collaborative environment where we put people first and where you are empowered to shape your career path. In parallel with project delivery, our UK Terrestrial Ecology Practice places a strong emphasis on continued professional development, technical excellence and knowledge sharing. As an employee‑owned business, we invest in our staff through structured training, mentoring, opportunities to attend conferences/events, opportunities to become involved in company initiatives (including innovation and sustainability programmes) and in‑person Ecology Practice team building sessions. As a Principal Ecologist, you will also have the opportunity to contribute strategically to the growth and direction of the ecology team, supporting business development, mentoring colleagues and helping to shape technical standards and best practice across the Practice. You can look forward to growing your career in a dynamic and supportive workplace with development opportunities and support on your career path. We have flexible working models to ensure a balance of family and working life, including hybrid and part‑time options.
Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
At Haskoning, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered. Our mission of “Enhancing Society Together” drives us to create an environment that embraces everyone’s unique background, identity, and perspective. Regardless of your experience, background, age, gender, or other personal characteristics you are welcome here. We believe that diversity makes us stronger and that an inclusive culture gives everyone the opportunity to grow and contribute.
Principal Consultant - Ecology in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: Haskoning
At Haskoning, we pride ourselves on being an employee-owned consultancy that prioritises a collaborative and empowering work environment. As a Principal Ecologist, you will not only lead impactful ecological projects but also benefit from extensive professional development opportunities, flexible working arrangements, and a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. Join us in our mission to enhance society together while shaping your career in a supportive and innovative setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Consultant - Ecology in Newcastle upon Tyne
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the ecology field. Attend industry events, join online forums, or even hit up LinkedIn. The more connections you make, the better your chances of hearing about job openings before they’re advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, don’t hold back on sharing your knowledge. Discuss your past projects, your approach to ecological assessments, and how you’ve tackled challenges. This will help you stand out as a candidate who knows their stuff.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see a company you’d love to work for, reach out directly. Send them a message expressing your interest and ask if they have any upcoming opportunities. Sometimes, it’s all about being in the right place at the right time!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of exciting roles, and applying directly can give you an edge. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at Haskoning. Let’s enhance society together!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Consultant - Ecology in Newcastle upon Tyne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the Principal Ecologist role. Highlight your extensive ecological consultancy experience and any relevant projects you've worked on to show us you're the right fit.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about ecology and how your background makes you a great candidate for this position. Don’t forget to mention your leadership and mentoring experience!
Showcase Your Technical Skills:We want to see your expertise in action! Be sure to include details about your experience with Ecological Impact Assessments, Protected Species Licences, and any other relevant technical skills that demonstrate your capability as a Principal Ecologist.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Haskoning
✨Know Your Ecology Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your ecological knowledge, especially around the specific assessments and strategies mentioned in the job description. Be ready to discuss your experience with Ecological Impact Assessments and Protected Species Licences, as these will likely come up during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Ecologist, you'll be expected to lead and mentor others. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed projects and supported junior colleagues in the past. Highlight your leadership style and how it aligns with fostering a collaborative team environment.
✨Prepare for Client Engagement Scenarios
Since client relationships are key, think about times when you've successfully engaged with clients or stakeholders. Be ready to share specific examples that demonstrate your interpersonal skills and ability to manage expectations while delivering high-quality outputs.
✨Emphasise Your Adaptability
The role requires someone who is adaptable and commercially aware. Think of instances where you've had to pivot or adjust your approach due to project changes or unexpected challenges. This will show that you're not only technically proficient but also flexible in your working style.
