Principal Ecologist (UK wide)

Principal Ecologist – Jacobs UK

Apply from one of our offices across Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, London, Manchester, Newcastle, Peterborough, and Reading. Jobs available on a permanent full‑time, part‑time, job share, or flexible basis.

Responsibilities

• Deliver major infrastructure projects in the 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, ensuring ecological requirements are integrated into project design and delivery.
• Lead ecological monitoring programmes, manage surveys and guarantee high‑quality data collection.
• Act as the main point of contact for clients and stakeholders on large‑scale projects, providing expert advice.
• Build cross‑functional networks with specialists across geographies and cultures to develop effective solutions.
• Mentor junior colleagues and contribute to global communities of practice, conferences and training events.
• Choose a career pathway that suits you, whether line management responsibilities or technical expertise, with progression supported in both routes.

Qualifications

• Strong background in terrestrial ecology with significant industry experience.
• Chartered membership (or eligibility) of a relevant professional body.
• Proven track record in 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.
• Specialism in terrestrial ecology or broad experience with the ability to adapt quickly to new areas.

Benefits

• Up to 10% company contribution into your pension.
• Reimbursement for professional development and memberships.
• Local community support through our Collectively programme (matched funding, paid volunteering time and charitable donations).
• Option to buy or sell annual leave.
• Free employee medical cover and digital GP service, including support for ASD, ADHD and Tourette syndrome.
• Mindfulness platform and confidential counselling services.
• Online fitness platform and personalised financial planning support.
• Enhanced parental leave pay, fertility and family‑forming benefits.
• Work‑life balance options: hybrid working, part‑time roles, flexible hours, compressed hours, annualised hours contract and desk‑based roles.

EEO Statement

Jacobs embraces a culture of safety, integrity, inclusion and belonging. We welcome applicants of all ages, genders, disabilities, identities, backgrounds and families. As a disability confident employer, we interview disabled candidates who best meet the criteria.