Senior/Principal ecologist with specialism in ornithology in Reading

At Jacobs, we're challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world's most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission‑critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting‑edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good.

Your impact

We have an exciting opportunity for a senior/principal ecologist with a special interest in ornithology to join our award‑winning ecology team across the UK. The successful individual will work with hydrologists, geomorphologists, engineers, planners and project managers to provide support and advice to our clients, ensuring ecology input is considered by project teams and delivering high quality technical advice.

Responsibilities

• Deliver some of the most challenging, diverse and innovative projects across transport, water and energy for local, regional and national clients, including government agencies, local authorities, utilities and energy companies.
• Work in multidisciplinary teams, quickly building rapport and trust to ensure ornithological requirements are recognised, acknowledged and constraints acted upon.
• Lead ornithological surveys, provide expert advice to clients, and support and contribute to a wide range of other ecological surveys, assessments and project tasks.
• Support Environmental Impact Assessment and Habitats Regulations Appraisals using your knowledge of national legislation.
• Balance desk and site‑based tasks, working across the UK and being willing to travel away from home during the working week.

Qualifications

• A background in terrestrial ecology with relevant industry experience, including technical reporting and impact assessment in cognisance of national legislation and guidance.
• Good bird identification skills, with an understanding of bird ecology and a range of generic and species‑specific bird survey techniques.
• Experience scoping and executing field surveys and data analysis.
• Full membership of a professional body (or experience to obtain membership), with applications also welcomed from candidates holding chartership.
• Inquisitiveness, willingness to learn and a high level of personal responsibility.
• Ability to write clear and concise reports.

What's In It For Me

• Global reach – collaborate with 600+ ecologists worldwide and tap into unmatched expertise.
• Clear progression – structured development through our Global Career Framework and Chartership Academy.
• Build your legacy – lead, grow and shape a team in your own vision.
• Influence major projects – work with clients such as the Environment Agency, National Grid, Network Rail and National Highways.
• Win and shape future work – play a key role in bidding, strategy and growth.
• Be recognised as a leader – represent Jacobs through client engagement, industry presence and thought leadership.

Benefits

• Competitive salary that reflects your skills and experience.
• 24 days holiday, with the option to buy a further 10 days.
• Robust pension contributions up to 10% to secure your future.
• Comprehensive health coverage, including single medical cover and Digital GP service, with options to add partner and family.
• Employee networks supporting diversity and inclusion.
• Family planning support including fertility healthcare and family planning services.
• Enhanced parental leave pay and free membership to employee assistance and parental programmes.
• Life assurance at four times your salary.
• Income protection for financial security in case of long‑term illness or injury.
• Wellbeing hub with free access to wellbeing apps such as Calm and Daily Burn.
• Professional development: we cover professional membership fees and provide continuous professional development (CPD) opportunities.
• Community engagement through charity matched‑funding, paid volunteering time and charitable donations.

Our Culture

Our values are grounded in safety, integrity, inclusion and diversity. We place people at the heart of our business and believe that by supporting one another through a culture of caring, we all succeed. We embrace positive mental health and a sense of belonging for all employees.

Diversity and Inclusion

Jacobs is an equal‑opportunity employer. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds, regardless of age, disability, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, mental health, race, faith or belief, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background or pregnancy. We are committed to building vibrant communities and ensuring inclusive practice across our workforce.