Principal Ecologist

**What if you could do the kind of work the world needs?**
- At WSP, you can access our global scale, contribute to landmark projects and connect with the brightest minds in your field to do the best work of your life. You can embrace your curiosity in a culture that celebrates new ideas and diverse perspectives. You can experience a world of opportunity and the chance to shape a career as unique as you.

**A little more about your role**

We are seeking **a Principal Ecologist**to join our growing Ecology Team in Cardiff and work on some engaging projects within a supportive team of technical experts.

We collaborate with a range of interrelated disciplines including Biodiversity Net Gain and Natural Capital specialists, arboriculturists, landscape architects, hydrologists, environmental scientists and geotechnical specialists.

You will be involved in the following activities:

- Planning and undertaking ecology surveys including Phase 1, UKHab habitat surveys and protected species surveys (badger, otter, bat, great crested newt, etc).
- Preparation of tenders and a range of ecological deliverables including; Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, EIAR chapters and Habitats Regulations Appraisals.
- Client liaison and project management.
- Consultation and negotiation with regulators and stakeholders.
- Mentoring junior team members.
- Helping to nurture an enthusiastic, supportive, and productive working environment.
- Attending and contributing to regular weekly and monthly Ecology team meetings.
- Taking advantage of a generous training and career development budget to complete training (in-house and external).

**What we are looking for you to demonstrate**
- An appropriate academic qualification and/or experience in a related discipline.
- Experience across a range of Scottish habitats and ideally has experience with securing derogation licences from NatureScot.
- Experience of Ecological Impact Assessment and writing EIAR chapters.
- Experience of Habitats Regulations Appraisal.
- Strong communication skills and is solution-focussed and proactive.

**Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all.**

Join our close-knit community of talented individuals who share your passion for making a positive impact. Our global team includes more than 69,000 employees, working together to make a difference in communities both close to home and around the world.

We are one of the world’s leading engineering and professional services firms. Our 72,800 passionate people are united by the common purpose of creating positive, long-lasting impacts on the communities we serve through a culture of innovation, integrity, and inclusion. With over 9,000 professionals across the UK and Ireland, we are dedicated to our local communities and propelled by international brainpower.

**WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU?**

**Work-life balance**

At WSP, we understand that work is just one aspect of your life. It’s important to make time for you, your family, friends, interests and your community.

Our hybrid working policy offers the flexibility to work from home two days a week, while also providing opportunities to collaborate in our modern offices across the UK.

**Inclusivity & Belonging**

We welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and experiences. We enable rewarding careers by encouraging people to bring their whole and authentic selves to work so that our work represents the fullest spectrum of society. We celebrate integrity and treat people with respect, supporting each other and embracing a culture of inclusion and belonging at WSP. We have our employee resource groups bring together employees and allies with different backgrounds to promote our culture of inclusivity.

**Health & Wellbeing**

We are committed to supporting our people, giving you the tools to make improvements to your health and wellbeing through our Thrive programme.

Our Virtual GP service gives you access to an NHS or Irish Medical Council GP at a time and place that suits you - giving you peace of mind and quick access to medical advice when you need it most. We also provide reasonable workplace adjustments for those in need. Additionally, you can benefit from the Gymflex scheme, which offers up to 40% off annual gym memberships through our WSP flexible benefits program, as well as a comprehensive menopause support package.

**Flex your time**

To enhance work-life balance, WSP offers the “WSP My Hour,” allowing you to take one hour each day for personal activities, with the flexibility to make up the time earlier or later that day.

We also provide part-time and flexible working arrangements, the option to purchase additional leave, and the ability to use your bank holiday entitlement to suit you.

**Your development**

We understand the importance of development and training to you. That’s why we foster a supportive environment that invests in your growth, whether through training, mentoring, or Chartership.

**#WeAreWSP