Principal Ecologist - Nationwide

  • Phil Jones Associates Ltd & PJA Civil Engineering Ltd
  • Jan 01, 2026
Full time Industrial

Job Description

As PJA continues to grow and expand, we are looking for an enthusiastic Principal Ecologist to support our Nature Technical Director in a variety of exciting projects.

PJA is a leading team of transport, engineering, nature and placemaking specialists with offices in Birmingham, Bristol, Cambridge, London, Manchester, Reading, Perth and Melbourne.

We provide expert advice on a wide range of projects across the UK and beyond from new settlements and nationally strategic infrastructure projects, through to urban regeneration schemes and a wide range of education, employment and sports and leisure developments.

Our strength lies with our team of people, all of whom have been employed for their unique skills and talents. We are credible, engaging, and creative and our mission is to create better greener and sustainable places through great design.

We are now looking for a Principal Ecologist to join our growing team.

This is an exciting opportunity for a person with a strong background in Ecology and biodiversity net gain and great organisational skills, to advance their career with our growing, highly successful organisation.

Leadership
  • Line management and mentoring
  • Onboarding and management of subcontractors
  • Technical input on bids
  • Promoting Nature services to the wider business and externally
Job description
  • Proficient use of the Statutory biodiversity metric
  • Input and approval of reports
  • Liaising with the client, statutory bodies and local planning authorities
Qualifications
  • Relevant degree in Ecology or environmental sciences
  • Full CIEEM membership
  • Protected species survey licences (desirable)
  • At least 6 years of relevant previous experience

We are proud to employ a wide range of people from diverse disciplines and backgrounds. Senior members of the team share a common desire to get the job done without the encumbrances often associated with large multi disciplinary practices, whilst the more junior members of the team thrive on the fast paced environment and the variety of projects they can get involved with.

As a member of the PJA team, you can expect:
  • An attractive and modern working environment with good accessibility by all modes of transport
  • The opportunity to progress quickly within the firm
  • Approved training schemes and development opportunities at a pace and direction that suit you
  • Ongoing support, training and mentoring from senior professionals within the business with a real commitment from senior management towards personal and professional development
We also offer an attractive benefits package that includes:
  • 25 Days annual leave plus the ability to purchase additional days
  • Hybrid working arrangements
  • Option to participate in the Company Share Ownership scheme

If this sounds like something you would like to be a part of, then we would love to hear from you. Please email your CV and a covering letter to . Please ensure you state the role you are applying for in the email subject.