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- Tasks: Lead innovative ecology projects across the UK, ensuring environmental standards are met.
- Company: Join Jacobs, a global leader in solving critical problems for thriving cities and resilient environments.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive pay, wellness support, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on diverse infrastructure projects while collaborating with passionate professionals.
- Qualifications: Experience in terrestrial ecology and strong communication skills are essential; chartered status is a plus.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and a culture of inclusion and diversity await you at Jacobs.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Principal Ecologist (UK wide) – Jacobs
Location: Across UK – Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, London, Manchester, Newcastle, Peterborough, Reading. Remote & flexible options available.
Jacobs Engineers™ innovates to deliver solutions for cities, environments and infrastructure. As Principal Ecologist you will lead ecological input on large‑scale projects across water, transport and energy sectors, advise clients and stakeholders, mentor junior staff and help shape environmental policy.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver major infrastructure projects across water, transport and energy sectors for clients such as Anglian Water, National Highways and Network Rail.
- Apply expertise in Environmental Impact Assessment, Habitats Regulations Assessment and Biodiversity Net Gain.
- Collaborate across disciplines to integrate ecological requirements into project design and delivery.
- Lead ecological monitoring programmes, manage surveys and ensure high‑quality data collection.
- Act as main point of contact for clients and stakeholders on large‑scale projects.
- Build cross‑functional networks, working with specialists across geographies and cultures.
- Mentor and support team members, sharing knowledge through global communities of practice, conferences and training events.
Required Qualifications
- Strong background in terrestrial ecology with significant industry experience.
- Chartered membership (or eligibility) of a relevant professional body.
- Proven track record leading ecological input on large‑scale projects.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with sharp attention to detail.
- High level of personal accountability and professionalism.
- Technical specialism in terrestrial ecology or broad experience with ability to adapt quickly to new area.
Benefits & Development
- Global Career Framework – chart your path with clarity and purpose.
- Chartership Academy Programme – support to achieve professional accreditation.
- Employee Networks & Communities of Practice – connect with over 200 ecologists in the UK & Ireland, and 600+ globally.
- Culture of collaboration and sustainability – work on projects that matter.
Inclusion & Diversity
Jacobs is an inclusive, diversity‑driven workplace that values positive mental health and a sense of belonging for all employees. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and encourage flexible working. As a Disability Confident employer we will interview disabled applicants who meet the criteria.
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Principal Ecologist (UK wide) employer: Jacobs
Contact Detail:
Jacobs Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Ecologist (UK wide)
✨Tip Number 1
Network with current or former employees of Jacobs to gain insights into the company culture and expectations for the Principal Ecologist role. This can help you tailor your approach and demonstrate your genuine interest in the position.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with Jacobs' recent projects and initiatives in ecology. Being able to discuss specific projects during interviews will show your enthusiasm and understanding of their work, making you a more compelling candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Engage with relevant professional bodies and communities related to terrestrial ecology. This not only enhances your knowledge but also expands your network, which could lead to valuable connections at Jacobs.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your leadership experiences in managing large-scale ecological projects. Highlighting your ability to lead multidisciplinary teams effectively will resonate well with Jacobs' emphasis on collaboration and project management.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Ecologist (UK wide)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in terrestrial ecology and any relevant projects you've worked on. Use specific examples that demonstrate your skills in Environmental Impact Assessment and managing large-scale projects.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for ecology and how your background aligns with Jacobs' mission. Mention your chartered membership status and any leadership roles you've held in previous positions.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since outstanding written and verbal skills are essential for this role, ensure your application is free from errors and clearly communicates your ideas. Consider including examples of presentations or reports you've delivered.
Highlight Collaborative Experience: Jacobs values collaboration, so be sure to mention any experience you have working in multidisciplinary teams. Discuss how you've built rapport with colleagues and stakeholders to achieve project success.
How to prepare for a job interview at Jacobs
✨Showcase Your Ecological Expertise
Make sure to highlight your background in terrestrial ecology and any relevant industry experience. Be prepared to discuss specific projects you've worked on, particularly those involving Environmental Impact Assessments or Biodiversity Net Gain.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Principal Ecologist, you'll be expected to lead large-scale projects. Share examples of how you've successfully managed teams and built rapport with clients and stakeholders in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Multidisciplinary Collaboration
Jacobs values collaboration across disciplines. Think of instances where you've worked with other specialists to create effective solutions and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to a team environment.
✨Engage with Their Values
Familiarise yourself with Jacobs' commitment to inclusion, diversity, and community support. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their culture.
