Lead Ecologist

Lead Ecologist
Reading (Hybrid
Salary £50-58k DOE

Ready to lead on biodiversity and make a real environmental impact?

We’re looking for a passionate and experienced Lead Ecologist to join our client's Capital Delivery team. In this role, you’ll ensure ecological best practices are embedded across major infrastructure projects, helping to drive sustainability, compliance, and measurable biodiversity net gain across the region.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone who wants to protect the environment while contributing to vital public infrastructure.

What you’ll be doing...

• Lead ecological risk management and mitigation activities throughout the full project lifecycle.
• Review and advise on documentation such as Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs), biodiversity assessments, and protected species surveys.
• Conduct walkovers and support survey planning for protected species.
• Drive compliance with Biodiversity Net Gain targets.
• Liaise with internal teams, contractors, regulators, and stakeholders to ensure environmental legislation is upheld.
• Foster a culture of environmental responsibility across project teams.

What you’ll bring ...

• Degree or Master’s in Ecology, Environmental Science, Conservation, or a related field.
• Ideally a full member of CIEEM (or working towards it).
• Strong knowledge of UK protected species (especially birds and badgers).
• Experience with biodiversity metrics and ecological risk assessments.
• Background working on infrastructure or large-scale capital projects.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Valid UK driving licence and access to a car.

What’s on offer

• Salary between £50,000 – £58,000 depending on skills and experience.
• 26 days annual leave (rising to 30 with service), plus bank holidays.
• Competitive pension scheme.
• Access to a broad benefits platform including health and well being support.
• Flexible hybrid working with 2–3 days per week on site.

Why this role? ...

You’ll play a central part in delivering major projects that protect biodiversity and improve sustainability outcomes for millions of people. If you’re passionate about making a tangible ecological difference and want to influence how large-scale developments interact with nature, this is your chance.

Apply here for consideration.