Principal Ecologist

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.OverviewJoin Jacobs’ UK Ecology Team as a Principal Ecologist and become part of a dynamic, forward-thinking organisation that’s making a real impact—locally and globally. We’re hiring nationwide, with opportunities available in our offices across Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, London, Manchester, Newcastle, Peterborough and Reading. Wherever you’re based, you’ll find a welcoming team and exciting projects waiting for you. We don’t just offer jobs—we build careers, with a strong reputation for excellence and innovation and a commitment to growth.What we offerGlobal Career Framework – chart your path with clarity and purposeChartership Academy Programme – support to achieve professional accreditationEmployee Networks & Communities of Practice – connect with over 200 ecologists in the UK & Ireland, and 600+ globallyA culture of collaboration and sustainability – work on projects that matterPositions are available on a permanent full-time and part-time, job share or flexible basis.The roleDelivering major infrastructure projects across water, transport, and energy sectors for clients like Anglian Water, National Highways, Network Rail, and moreApplying your expertise in Environmental Impact Assessment, Habitats Regulations Assessment, and/or Biodiversity Net GainCollaborating across disciplines, ensuring ecological requirements are integrated into project design and deliveryLeading ecological monitoring programmes, managing surveys and ensuring high-quality data collectionProviding expert advice, acting as the main point of contact for clients and stakeholders on large-scale projectsBuilding cross-functional networks, working with specialists across geographies and cultures to develop effective solutionsMentoring and learning, sharing knowledge through global communities of practice, conferences, and training eventsRequirementsStrong background in terrestrial ecology with significant industry experienceChartered membership (or eligibility) of a relevant professional bodyProven track record in leading ecological input on large-scale projectsExcellent written and verbal communication skills, with sharp attention to detailHigh level of personal accountability and professionalismA technical specialization in terrestrial ecology—or broad experience with the ability to adapt quickly to a new areaOur CultureOur values stand on a foundation of safety, integrity, inclusion and diversity. We put people at the heart of our business and we truly believe that by supporting one another through our culture of caring, we all succeed. We value positive mental health and a sense of belonging for all employees. Find out more about life at Jacobs.We aim to embed inclusion and diversity in everything we do. We know that if we are inclusive, we’re more connected, and if we are diverse, we’re more creative. We accept people for who they are, regardless of age, disability, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, mental health, race, faith or belief, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, and whether you’re pregnant or on family leave. This is reflected in our Global Employee Networks centred on inclusion and diversity – ACE, Careers, Enlace, Harambee, OneWorld, Prism, Women and Vetnet. Find out more about our employee networks here.Jacobs partners with VERCIDA to help us attract and retain diverse talent. For greater online accessibility please visit www.vercida.com to view and access our roles. As a Disability Confident employer, we will interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for a vacancy. We welcome applications from candidates who are seeking flexible working and from those who may not meet all the listed requirements for a role.If you require further support or reasonable adjustments with regards to the recruitment process (for example, you require the application form in a different format), please contact the team.Your application experience is important to us and we’re keen to adapt to make every interaction even better. We welcome feedback on our recruitment process and if you need more from us before deciding to join Jacobs then please let us know.Joining Jacobs not only connects you locally but globally. Our values stand on a foundation of safety, integrity, inclusion and belonging. We put people at the heart of our business, and we truly believe that by supporting one another through our culture of caring, we all succeed. We value positive mental health and a sense of belonging for all employees.With safety and flexibility always top of mind, we’ve gone beyond traditional ways of working so you have the support, means and space to maximize your potential. You’ll uncover flexible working arrangements, benefits, and opportunities, from well-being benefits to our global giving and volunteering program, to exploring new and inventive ways to help our clients make the world a better place. No matter what drives you, you’ll discover how you can cultivate, nurture, and achieve your goals – all at a single global company. Find out more about life at Jacobs.We aim to embed inclusion and belonging in everything we do. We know that if we are inclusive, we’re more connected and creative. We accept people for who they are, and we champion the richness of different perspectives, lived experiences and backgrounds in the workplace, as a source of learning and innovation. We are committed to building vibrant communities within Jacobs, including through our Jacobs Employee Networks, Communities of Practice and our Find Your Community initiatives, allowing every employee to find connection, purpose, and belonging. Find out more about our Jacobs Employee Networks here.Jacobs partners with VERCIDA to help us attract and retain talent from a wide range of backgrounds. For greater online accessibility please visit www.vercida.com to view and access our roles.As a disability confident employer, we will interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for a vacancy. We welcome applications from candidates who are seeking flexible working and from those who may not meet all the listed requirements for a role.We value collaboration and believe that in-person interactions are crucial for both our culture and client delivery. We empower employees with our hybrid working policy, allowing them to split their work week between Jacobs offices/projects and remote locations enabling them to deliver their best work.Your application experience is important to us, and we’re keen to adapt to make every interaction even better. If you require further support or reasonable adjustments with regards to the recruitment process (for example, you require the application form in a different format), please contact the team via Careers Support.Job detailsSeniority level: Not ApplicableEmployment type: Full-timeJob function: Research, Analyst, and Information TechnologyIndustries: Civil Engineering, Design Services, and IT Services and IT ConsultingWe are excited to connect you with opportunities. Get notified about new Ecologist jobs in Greater Exeter Area. #J-18808-Ljbffr