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- Tasks: Lead ecological compliance for a major UK power transmission project.
- Company: Join a nationally recognised contractor focused on modernising the UK's energy infrastructure.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, competitive salary, bonuses, and generous leave policies.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on biodiversity while advancing your career in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Degree in Ecology required; experience in infrastructure projects preferred.
- Other info: Site-based role 3-4 days a week with opportunities for ongoing training.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Are you ready to take the lead on one of the UK’s most environmentally ambitious infrastructure projects? We’re supporting a nationally recognised contractor delivering a once-in-a-generation, state-backed power transmission upgrade - part of a major programme to modernise the UK’s energy infrastructure. With extensive ecological sensitivities and a multi-year construction timeline, this is a rare opportunity to step into a strategic, high-profile role with genuine long-term career potential.
As Lead Ecologist, you’ll lead ecological compliance and delivery across this nationally significant Development Consent Order (DCO) scheme. You’ll act as the central point of contact for ecology matters - working closely with the client, statutory bodies (e.g. Natural England, RSPB), consultants, and internal delivery teams to protect biodiversity while supporting sustainable construction.
What you’ll be doing:
- Acting as the project’s ecology lead - primary interface for internal teams, the client, and external regulators
- Managing a small in-house ecology team and supervising subcontract consultants
- Developing and implementing ecological management plans aligned with legal and DCO requirements
- Leading on licensing, protected species compliance, and engagement with key stakeholders
- Supporting Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) delivery and long-term habitat management strategies
- Providing strategic ecological advice to delivery teams - shaping decisions
What we’re looking for:
- Strong ecological knowledge and understanding of UK wildlife legislation
- Prior experience delivering ecological mitigation on live infrastructure or linear construction projects such as Rail, Highways, Utilities.
- Confidence in managing clients, regulators, and multidisciplinary teams
- Familiarity with DCO frameworks, BNG, and environmental permitting (desirable)
- Degree in Ecology or a related field (essential); CIEEM membership preferred
- Experience managing teams or leading consultants
- Willingness to be site-based 3 - 4 days per week (Ipswich/Colchester area) with flexible home working
Why this role?
This is a career-defining opportunity to lead on a landmark infrastructure scheme with ecological complexity and national visibility. With long-term project security, regular regulator engagement, and future growth into leadership roles, this role offers the scope, support, and scale to make a meaningful impact. You’ll join a collaborative, values-driven team at a critical time - helping shape biodiversity outcomes from pre-construction through to post-delivery habitat success.
What’s on offer:
- A very competitive basic salary
- Company car or car allowance
- Annual bonus scheme
- Family private medical insurance
- 25 days annual leave + bank holidays
- Generous employer pension scheme
- Permanent, full-time role (40 hours/week) with flexible working culture
- Ongoing Training & Development opportunities
- Family-Friendly Policies (including enhanced parental leave)
- Share incentive plan, volunteering leave, recognition schemes and much more…
Apply now through Sustainable Futures Group (SFG) – Global Recruitment Experts in Sustainability, ESG & HSE.
Lead Ecologist employer: Sustainable Futures Group | SFG
Contact Detail:
Sustainable Futures Group | SFG Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Ecologist
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the ecology and environmental sectors. Attend industry conferences, workshops, or local meetups to connect with people who might have insights into the role or even know about opportunities at StudySmarter.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific ecological legislation and frameworks mentioned in the job description, such as DCO and BNG. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experience with ecological mitigation on infrastructure projects. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams or collaborated with clients and regulators.
✨Tip Number 4
Show your enthusiasm for biodiversity and sustainable construction during any interactions with us. Highlight your passion for making a positive impact on the environment, as this aligns with our values at StudySmarter.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Ecologist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Lead Ecologist position. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities and required qualifications, as this will help you tailor your application effectively.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your previous experience in ecological compliance and management, particularly in infrastructure projects. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and achievements in similar roles.
Showcase Your Knowledge: Demonstrate your understanding of UK wildlife legislation and DCO frameworks in your application. Mention any relevant certifications or memberships, such as CIEEM, to strengthen your candidacy.
Personalise Your Application: Address your application to the hiring team at Sustainable Futures Group. A personalised approach shows your genuine interest in the role and can make your application stand out.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sustainable Futures Group | SFG
✨Showcase Your Ecological Knowledge
Make sure to brush up on your understanding of UK wildlife legislation and ecological principles. Be prepared to discuss specific examples from your past experience that demonstrate your expertise in ecological compliance and mitigation, especially in relation to infrastructure projects.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Lead Ecologist, you'll be managing a team and liaising with various stakeholders. Highlight your previous leadership experiences and how you've successfully managed teams or consultants. Share instances where you’ve led projects or initiatives that required collaboration across different disciplines.
✨Familiarise Yourself with DCO Frameworks
Since the role involves working within Development Consent Order frameworks, it’s crucial to understand these processes. Research the DCO requirements and be ready to discuss how you would ensure compliance while supporting sustainable construction practices.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in real-world scenarios. Think about potential challenges you might face in this role, such as managing ecological sensitivities during construction, and prepare thoughtful responses that showcase your strategic thinking and decision-making skills.
