Senior Ecology Consultant

Waterman Infrastructure & Environment Ltd

Location: Birmingham

Salary: Competitive, based on skills and experience

About Us

At Waterman Group, we are proud to be at the forefront of delivering sustainable, innovative projects across the UK and internationally. As a multidisciplinary consultancy, we work on high-profile projects in various sectors, including regeneration, property, transport, and public services. Our team is passionate about making a positive impact through collaborative, sustainable design.

Our Waterman Ecology team is a CIEEM Registered Ecology Practice exemplifying our depth and breadth of experience and technical excellence.

We are currently expanding our Ecology team in Birmingham and looking for an experienced Senior Ecology Consultant to join our enthusiastic and friendly team. Our Birmingham office is conveniently located adjacent to Snow Hill Station and just a short walk from New Street, making it easily accessible. The team works on a diverse range of projects, including award-winning retail developments, residential and commercial refurbishments, advanced manufacturing units, and educational developments. As part of this growing team, you’ll play a key role in delivering these exciting projects across various sectors.

The Role

As a Senior Ecology Consultant, you’ll be responsible for managing and delivering a wide variety of ecological services on projects across multiple sectors. You’ll contribute to ecological surveys, report writing, and providing practical advice on ecology and environmental issues. The role offers the opportunity to mentor junior staff, contribute to business development, and collaborate with other regional teams to deliver successful project outcomes.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead ecological surveys and provide advice on projects across property, transport, and infrastructure sectors.

• Prepare and review ecological reports, including PEA, EcIA, Biodiversity Net Gain, and BREEAM assessments.

• Work with clients and stakeholders to provide practical and commercially aware ecological solutions.

• Contribute to the EIA process and Ecological Impact Assessments.

• Manage and mentor junior staff, helping them develop their skills and progress within the team.

• Prepare fee proposals and manage client relationships effectively.

• Undertake technical reviews of ecological reports and ensure high-quality delivery.

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of ecological legislation and planning policy.

• Contribute to the wider business development activities of the team, including public enquiries and marketing activities.

What We’re Looking For:

• A degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related field.

• Experience in ecological consultancy or a related sector (further experience required for the Principal role).

• Full Membership of CIEEM and/or Chartered Ecologist status.

• Strong expertise in ecological survey work, including protected species surveys and handling.

• Proficiency in report writing, including EcIA, PEA, Biodiversity Net Gain, and BREEAM assessments.

• Knowledge of the EIA process and experience contributing to Environmental Statements would be an advantage.

• Experience in both infrastructure and property development projects.

• Excellent communication and technical report writing skills.

• A pragmatic and commercially aware approach to providing ecological advice.

• Experience of managing teams and mentoring junior staff.

• Public enquiry experience or input would be beneficial.

• A solid understanding of conservation legislation and protected species licensing, ideally holding at least one survey/handling licence for a protected species.

Why Join Waterman Infrastructure & Environment in Birmingham?

• Competitive Salary & Benefits: Annual salary reviews based on skills and experience.

• Hybrid Working: Flexible work-from-home options with regular office collaboration.

• Career Progression: Fast-tracked career growth with opportunities to take on leadership roles within the team.

• Training & Development: Access to ongoing professional development, mentoring from industry experts, and an ICE Training Agreement.

• Work-Life Balance: Generous holiday allowance (26 days per year, rising to 31 with loyalty days), plus bank holidays.

• Exciting Projects: Work on diverse and high-profile projects, including award-winning developments in various sectors.

• Team Culture: A friendly, supportive, and inclusive team environment, with regular social and team-building activities.

Our Office Location:

Our Birmingham office is centrally located, adjacent to Snow Hill Station and just a 5-minute walk from New Street Station, making it easily accessible via public transport, bike, or on foot. The office is in a vibrant area with plenty of nearby shops, cafes, and restaurants.

How to Apply:

If you’re passionate about ecology and eager to work on exciting projects in a collaborative environment, we’d love to hear from you. Please send your CV and a covering letter explaining why you’d be a great fit for our team to or complete and submit the form below.

All applications will be treated in confidence. Waterman is an equal opportunities employer and values diversity.