Senior Ecologist
Assystem · London, England ·
Company DescriptionAssystem is a global engineering and digital services company that plays a key role in large infrastructure projects, especially those related to complex, highly regulated industries. In the infrastructure sector, Assystem works across various domains to support the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of critical infrastructure.
As global challenges related to climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainable development intensify, the role of ecological expertise has never been more critical. Our growing ecology practice is at the forefront of delivering practical solutions that promote environmental resilience, biodiversity conservation, and responsible land use.
We support a wide range of projects—from infrastructure development and renewable energy to habitat restoration and environmental planning—by integrating ecological principles into every phase of design and decision-making.
Our team of ecologists work closely with clients, communities, and stakeholders to ensure that development and conservation go hand in hand. With a strong focus on innovation, regulatory compliance, and long-term ecological health, we are committed to advancing a more sustainable and nature-positive future.
Job DescriptionAre you an experienced ecologist ready to lead projects, shape best practice and support the growth of a high-performing team? At Assystem UK, you will take on a senior, client-facing role that combines technical delivery with team leadership and commercial awareness across major infrastructure and development schemes in the UK.The RoleYou will be embedded within live project environments, supporting planning, consenting, construction and operational phases.
Acting as the ecological focal point within multidisciplinary teams, you will ensure ecological risks are managed pragmatically while maintaining programme and commercial objectives. Alongside leading complex projects, you will play a key role in strengthening and developing the ecology practice.
You will mentor colleagues, support resource planning and contribute to strategic growth, helping to position ecology as a trusted and commercially successful discipline within the wider business. What You Will Be Doing: Project Delivery and Technical LeadershipLead ecological surveys and assessments, including habitat appraisals, protected species surveys and impact evaluationsOversee ecological input into housing, infrastructure, renewables and energy projectsPrepare and review high-quality technical reports, including EIAs, HRAs, mitigation strategies and Biodiversity Net Gain assessmentsMonitor construction activities to ensure compliance with wildlife legislation and licence conditionsSupport and lead protected species mitigation strategies and EPS licence applicationsInvestigate ecological incidents and implement proactive risk management measuresDeliver ecological briefings and provide clear, practical advice to site teams and project managersTeam and Practice LeadershipLead, mentor and support ecologists at senior, mid-level and junior gradesAlign team resourcing with project demands, managing workloads and supporting recruitment where requiredChampion best practice in ecology, health and safety, quality assurance and legislative complianceContribute to the continuous improvement of technical standards and delivery processesStrategic and Commercial ContributionSupport work-winning activities including tenders, fee proposals, client presentations and framework bidsMonitor project budgets, programme delivery and resource forecastsContribute to practice growth plans aligned with wider business objectivesBuild strong relationships with clients, regulators and collaborators, acting as a trusted senior contactQualificationsWhat You Will BringA degree in Ecology, Environmental Science or a related discipline, supported by significant experience in applied ecological consultancy.
You will also bring: Two European Protected Species licencesStrong knowledge of UK wildlife legislation, planning policy and best practice including EIA, HRA and BNGExperience managing teams, budgets and multidisciplinary project deliveryMembership of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management, with Full Membership to be obtained if not already heldExcellent commercial awareness, business planning insight and client engagement skillsStrong report writing, communication and leadership capabilitiesA full UK driving licence and willingness to travel to project sitesDesirable Experience It is advantageous if you have: Extensive Ecological Clerk of Works experience on infrastructure or construction sitesExperience in Biodiversity Net Gain assessment and UKHab habitat classificationA strong professional network within the ecology and infrastructure sectorsIf you are ready to combine hands-on technical delivery with leadership, commercial influence and team development, this is your opportunity to make a measurable impact within a growing ecology practice.
Additional InformationNOTICE TO CANDIDATES ON RECRUITMENT FRAUD - We are committed to safeguarding candidates from fraudulent activity associated with our recruitment process. Please note that we will never offer specialist CV writing services, request payment or ask for sensitive personal information during the recruitment process.
We are committed to equal treatment of candidates and promote, as well as foster all forms of diversity within our company. We believe that bringing together people with different backgrounds and perspectives is essential for creating innovative and impactful solutions.
Skills, talent, and our people's ability to dare are the only things that matter !. Bring your unique contributions and help us shape the future. SummaryType: Full-timeFunction: ConsultingExperience level: AssociateIndustry: Environmental Services