Senior Ecology Consultant | Bristol

Overview

At Waterman Group, we are committed to delivering innovative, sustainable projects across the UK and beyond. As a leading multidisciplinary consultancy, we work on high-profile projects in a variety of sectors, including property, transport, regeneration, and public services. Our growing and diverse teams are at the forefront of sustainable design, contributing to the success of our clients while making a positive impact on the environment.

We’re currently expanding our Ecology team and looking for a Senior Ecology Consultant to join us in Bristol. With an expanding workload across the UK, you’ll have the chance to work on diverse and exciting projects in regeneration, infrastructure, property development, and more, while collaborating with colleagues from other regions. This is a fantastic opportunity for a skilled ecologist to take the next step in their career with a forward-thinking, supportive team.

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

The Role

As a Senior Ecology Consultant, you will lead ecological consultancy work on a wide variety of projects. Your responsibilities will include undertaking and managing ecological surveys, preparing reports, and advising clients on ecological and environmental matters. You’ll be involved in the development of Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA), Biodiversity Net Gain assessments, and BREEAM assessments. The role also provides the opportunity to mentor junior team members and support them in their professional development.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead ecological surveys and provide technical advice to clients on a wide variety of projects, including property development and infrastructure projects.

• Undertake and review ecological reports, such as PEA, EcIA, BREEAM assessments, and Biodiversity Net Gain reports.

• Prepare and contribute to fee proposals and client reports.

• Work collaboratively with other regional teams to ensure a seamless service delivery across multiple projects.

• Provide leadership and mentoring to junior staff, helping them develop their technical and professional skills.

• Stay informed on ecological legislation and policy, providing pragmatic advice to clients.

• Contribute to the EIA process and the development of Ecological Impact Assessments.

• Manage client relationships, ensuring high-quality service and project delivery.

• Undertake desk-based studies and technical reviews to a high standard.

 

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.

• Proven experience in managing and leading ecological surveys, including protected species surveys and handling.

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

• Strong understanding of ecological legislation and protected species licensing.

• Experience in both linear infrastructure and property development projects is ideal.

• Excellent communication and technical report writing skills.

• Ability to work independently, as well as part of a team, with a client-focused and commercially aware approach.

• Experience of managing teams and providing mentorship.

• Public enquiry experience or input would be beneficial.

Why Join Waterman Infrastructure & Environment in Bristol?

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

• Hybrid Working: Flexible work-from-home options with an emphasis on 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 impactful projects in regeneration, property development, and more.

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

Our Office Location:

Our Bristol office is centrally located, making it easily accessible by public transport, bike, or on foot. The office is situated in a vibrant area with lots of nearby shops, cafes, and restaurants.

How to Apply:

If you’re passionate about ecology, eager to work on exciting projects, and want to be part of a dynamic and growing team, 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.