Principal Ecologist

Tetra Tech is looking for a Principal Ecologist to join our team in delivering high-impact ecological solutions across renewable energy, residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects throughout England.

Purpose & Scope of the Role

As Principal Ecologist, you will manage an exciting portfolio of approximately 6-10 projects at any one time, delivering work in line with UK legislation, planning policy, and ecological best practice. You will lead ecological inputs across renewable energy, residential, commercial, and infrastructure schemes, including Town and Country Planning Act developments and Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects.

The role includes authoring and peer reviewing ecological reports, leading stakeholder engagement, managing project finances, and supporting delivery of pragmatic ecological outcomes for clients.

Your Impact in This Position

In this role, you will have a direct influence on the quality, consistency, and commercial success of ecological work across a major portfolio of projects. You will help shape project outcomes through robust ecological assessment, practical mitigation, and effective negotiation with regulators and stakeholders.

You will also contribute to team capability by mentoring junior ecologists, providing in house training, and supporting professional development across a growing team of ecologists.

Technical Expertise

A strong track record in delivering ecological solutions for major infrastructure and development/regeneration projects. Familiarity with planning frameworks such as the National Planning Policy Framework, Biodiversity Net Gain guidance, Nature Recovery Network, and local biodiversity strategies.

Project Management

Proven ability to manage multiple ecological projects simultaneously, including fee proposals, tenders, invoicing, and project finances, while maintaining quality and deadlines.

Innovation

A forward thinking approach to ecology, with an interest in nature based design, ecological resilience, and design integration, working closely with landscape and hydrology colleagues.

Stakeholder Engagement & Negotiation

Experience leading discussions with Natural England, County Ecologists, Local Authority planning officers, and other stakeholders to achieve positive project outcomes.

Team Leadership & Development

Ability to support, mentor, and line manage junior ecologists, contributing to a collaborative team culture and developing in house capability.

Qualifications & Experience

Expected:

• Sound knowledge of the UK planning system and environmental legislation relevant to the role
• Competence in UK Habitat Classification and habitat condition assessments
• Ability to design and complete a range of typical ecology surveys and interpret findings to inform robust ecological assessments
• Experience designing and delivering ecological mitigation, including protected species licensing and Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) work
• Full UK driving licence, insured for business purposes
• Willingness to travel to sites throughout the region, with some overnight stays where required

Beneficial:

• Bachelor's and/or Master's degree in Ecology or a closely related field
• CIEEM membership
• At least one protected species survey licence, with great crested newt and bat licences highly desirable
• FISC Level 4, highly desirable but not essential
• Equivalent work experience may be considered where relevant

Working Environment

This is a hybrid role, with approximately 2-3 days per week office based. The position is mainly office based, with regular travel to client sites and other office locations across the region. Flexibility may be required depending on project needs, and occasional overnight accommodation may be necessary.

In alignment with the Equality Act 2010, we will make reasonable adjustments to support candidates and employees requiring additional arrangements. This could include adaptations to work schedules, training approaches, or the physical workspace. Please inform us if you need any accommodations during the recruitment process.