Principal Ecologist

Shirley Parsons Ltd

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.

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