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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead ecological solutions for major infrastructure projects and drive biodiversity outcomes.
- Company: Join a leading partner in delivering ambitious UK infrastructure projects focused on sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy a chance to influence environmental policies and work on impactful projects.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in biodiversity while collaborating with diverse teams and stakeholders.
- Qualifications: Experience in ecological design and knowledge of environmental legislation required.
- Other info: This role offers a unique opportunity to shape a greener future at a national scale.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
Are you passionate about shaping the future of the UK’s natural environment? We’re representing a leading infrastructure delivery partner, working on one of the UK’s most ambitious and high-profile projects. This is your chance to drive ecological excellence at scale – influencing biodiversity outcomes and helping to deliver a sustainable legacy for generations to come.
The Impact You’ll Make
- Shape the design and delivery of ecological solutions that contribute directly to achieving No Net Loss of Biodiversity .
- Lead the integration of habitat creation, enhancement, and protected species mitigation into one of the UK’s most significant infrastructure programmes.
- Influence key stakeholders – from environmental regulators to engineers – to ensure biodiversity remains at the heart of every decision.
- Drive innovation by blending ecological science with large-scale civil engineering, solving complex environmental challenges along the way.
- Leave a lasting legacy by helping to deliver a nationally significant “Green Corridor” that restores, protects, and enhances the natural environment.
Your Key Responsibilities
- Lead ecological excellence – shape and assure innovative design solutions that meet the highest environmental standards and industry best practice.
- Drive biodiversity outcomes – oversee habitat creation, enhancement strategies, and protected species mitigation to maximise environmental gains.
- Collaborate across disciplines – work hand-in-hand with engineers, landscape designers, and construction teams to embed ecology seamlessly into project delivery.
- Champion data-driven decisions – monitor ecological performance, adapt strategies based on evidence, and deliver continuous improvements across the programme.
- Take ownership of delivery – manage ecological work packages, tackle challenges head-on, and ensure milestones are achieved without compromising quality.
About You
- Experience in ecological design, mitigation, and enhancement within major construction or infrastructure projects.
- Knowledge of environmental legislation, standards, and best practice guidance.
- Proven ability to manage complex ecological programmes and engage confidently with stakeholders.
- CIEEM membership (or eligible), ideally holding protected species licences.
- Skilled communicator with a proactive, solutions-driven mindset.
This is a rare opportunity to make a measurable impact on biodiversity at a truly transformative scale. If you’re ready to take the lead in shaping a greener future, we’d love to hear from you.
Principal Ecologist employer: Shirley Parsons
Contact Detail:
Shirley Parsons Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Ecologist
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the ecological and construction sectors. Attend industry conferences, workshops, or webinars to meet potential colleagues and stakeholders who can provide insights into the role and the organisation.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and innovations in ecological design and biodiversity strategies. Being well-versed in current practices will help you demonstrate your expertise and passion during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed ecological projects in the past. Highlight your ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and drive positive environmental outcomes.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your commitment to continuous learning by mentioning any recent courses or certifications related to ecology or environmental management. This demonstrates your proactive approach and dedication to the field.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Ecologist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Principal Ecologist position. Familiarise yourself with ecological design, mitigation strategies, and the importance of biodiversity in infrastructure projects.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant experience in ecological design and management within major construction projects. Emphasise your knowledge of environmental legislation and any specific achievements related to biodiversity outcomes.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for ecological excellence and how your skills align with the company's goals. Mention specific examples of past projects where you successfully integrated ecological solutions and engaged with stakeholders.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since the role requires collaboration across disciplines, demonstrate your communication skills in your application. Provide examples of how you've effectively worked with engineers and other professionals to achieve ecological objectives.
How to prepare for a job interview at Shirley Parsons
✨Show Your Passion for Ecology
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for ecological issues and how they relate to the role. Share specific examples of projects or initiatives you've been involved in that demonstrate your commitment to biodiversity and environmental sustainability.
✨Demonstrate Stakeholder Engagement Skills
Prepare to discuss your experience in engaging with various stakeholders, such as engineers and environmental regulators. Highlight instances where you successfully influenced decisions to prioritise ecological outcomes, showcasing your ability to communicate effectively across disciplines.
✨Highlight Your Technical Knowledge
Be ready to talk about your understanding of ecological design, mitigation strategies, and relevant environmental legislation. Discuss any specific methodologies or best practices you’ve implemented in past projects to illustrate your expertise.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Anticipate questions that may ask you to solve hypothetical ecological challenges within a large-scale project. Think through your problem-solving approach and be prepared to explain how you would integrate ecological solutions into civil engineering projects.
