Principal - Ecologist

Are you a recognised terrestrial ecologist with deep technical expertise and a passion for solving complex environmental challenges?

At Beca, we're looking for a Principal Ecologist to provide strategic ecological leadership across a diverse portfolio of projects throughout Aotearoa New Zealand, Australia and the Pacific. 

We are particularly interested in ecologists with expertise in at least one of the following specialist disciplines: avifauna, botany, bats, lizards or terrestrial biodiversity. This role is suited to a highly respected ecologist who enjoys solving complex environmental challenges, influencing project outcomes, mentoring others and collaborating within multidisciplinary teams to deliver practical, future-focused solutions.

Te whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity 

As a Principal Ecologist, you'll provide specialist terrestrial ecology advice across major infrastructure, renewable energy, water and environmental projects, helping clients navigate complex ecological, consenting and regulatory challenges.

Working closely with planners, engineers, environmental scientists and project managers, you'll contribute to integrated solutions that balance environmental, social and commercial outcomes. You'll provide specialist input to ecological impact assessments, biodiversity management planning, environmental approvals and consenting processes, including hearings, Board of Inquiry proceedings and Environment Court matters.

You'll also help shape Beca's ecology capability, develop emerging talent and support the continued growth of our ecology services across New Zealand, Australia and the Pacific.

Ngā kawenga matua | What you'll be doing 

• Provide technical leadership across a diverse portfolio of terrestrial ecology projects, guiding assessment approaches, reviewing technical outputs and ensuring high-quality delivery.  
• Lead and contribute to terrestrial ecological surveys, ecological impact assessments, biodiversity management plans and mitigation strategies, applying specialist expertise in avifauna, botany, bats, lizards or terrestrial biodiversity. 
• Act as a trusted adviser to clients, project teams and stakeholders, providing pragmatic ecological solutions for complex environmental and consenting challenges.  
• Provide expert ecological evidence and technical support for hearings, Board of Inquiry proceedings and Environment Court processes.  
• Build trusted relationships with clients, regulators, iwi and project stakeholders, while contributing to business development, proposals and tenders.
• Mentor and support ecologists across all career stages, sharing knowledge and collaborating with environmental, planning and engineering specialists to strengthen Beca's ecology capability.

Ko wai koe | About you 

You're a recognised terrestrial ecology specialist with a reputation for trusted advice, technical leadership and delivering high-quality outcomes on complex and nationally significant projects. You enjoy solving challenging environmental issues and influencing project direction while developing the next generation of ecologists. 

You’ll bring 

• A relevant tertiary qualification with substantial consulting experience and recognised expertise in avifauna, botany, bats, lizards or terrestrial biodiversity. 
• Strong knowledge of New Zealand environmental legislation, policy and regulatory frameworks, supported by sound technical judgement and problem-solving skills.  
• Experience preparing and/or presenting expert ecological evidence and supporting Environment Court, hearing and Board of Inquiry processes. 
• Proven success leading complex ecological projects, undertaking technical review and mentoring others.
• An established professional network and a track record of building trusted client relationships, winning work and contributing to business growth.  
• CEnvP Ecology Specialist accreditation (or progress towards it) and experience delivering ecological impact assessments and biodiversity management plans. 

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer

At Beca, you'll join a stable, collaborative and highly respected ecology team, supported by longstanding client relationships, a strong pipeline of nationally significant work and opportunities to contribute across New Zealand, Australia and the Pacific.

A career with Beca offers opportunities to:

• Work on nationally significant and technically challenging projects. 
• Collaborate with specialists across environmental engineering, planning, hydrogeology, digital and other disciplines. 
• Influence the future direction of our ecology practice and help develop the next generation of ecologists.
• Contribute to the growth of our ecology services across Australia and the Pacific.
• Develop innovative solutions that balance environmental, social and engineering outcomes. 
• Join a supportive team that genuinely enjoys working together and helping each other succeed
• Access a range of employee benefits, including discounted health insurance, gym membership discounts and social club activities

Beca is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where people of all backgrounds, identities and experiences feel valued and empowered to contribute.

Tono mai | Apply now 

Ready to make everyday better? Apply now.