SLR is a global leader in sustainability solutions, working with clients to help make sustainability happen, within a collaborative, people-first culture.
Due to continued growth within our highly successful Ecology team, we are seeking experienced Ecologists to join our established UK and Ireland practice, delivering high-profile renewable energy, infrastructure and residential development projects.
With a team of approximately 200 ecologists across the UK and Ireland, we provide expert ecological and environmental advice across a broad range of habitats and protected species. Our ecology specialists work closely with planners, archaeologists, arboriculturists, landscape architects and engineers to deliver sustainable development solutions for our clients.
We are particularly interested in experienced ecologists looking to broaden their project management responsibilities, alongside more senior professionals with an interest in business development and client management. The role can be tailored to suit the successful candidate's experience and aspirations.
Rewards & Benefits
SLR's ‘One Team’ culture is at the heart of our business, providing a collaborative and supportive environment where people can develop and grow. Through a structured career framework, regular performance reviews, and support towards chartership, professional qualifications and licences, we offer excellent opportunities for long-term career progression. Our flexible benefits and reward package includes:
- Competitive salary with discretionary bonus
- Company pension
- Private medical insurance
- Life, income, and travel insurance
- Salary sacrifice car lease and cycle‑to‑work schemes
- Volunteering and Community Giving
- Flexible, hybrid and agile working
- 25 days’ annual leave plus flexible public holidays
- Buy or sell leave options
- Core working hours
- Cross‑border remote working and sabbatical opportunities
- Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption leave pay
- Workplace Nursery benefit
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Specialist support for mental health, stress and menopause - supporting our people both professionally and personally
The Role
You'll support and lead the delivery of a wide range of ecological projects, with a particular focus on renewable energy, infrastructure and residential development schemes. The role includes:
- Project and technical leadership, commensurate with experience
- Managing ecological projects, resources, budgets and client communications
- Producing and reviewing ecological reports, licence applications and technical assessments
- Preparation of Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, Ecological Impact Assessments, Habitats Regulations Assessments, EPS licence applications and related documentation
- Mentoring and supporting junior members of the ecology team
- Undertaking ecological surveys where required and ensuring survey quality and compliance across projects
- Supporting fee proposal preparation and business development activities
- Client management and stakeholder engagement
- A combination of desk-based work and fieldwork across the UK and Ireland
You'll collaborate with colleagues across planning, archaeology, landscape architecture, arboriculture and engineering disciplines, providing integrated environmental solutions on complex and impactful projects.
About You
You'll bring:
- Demonstrable experience within ecological consultancy, including ecological survey, assessment and reporting
- A degree in Ecology or a related environmental discipline
- Experience managing ecological projects through to completion
- Strong knowledge of UK and European ecological legislation, policy and guidance
- Experience preparing a wide range of technical reports, including Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs), Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIAs), Environmental Statement Chapters and Habitats Regulations Assessments (HRAs)
- Experience preparing and managing protected species and mitigation licence applications
- At least one protected species licence; a bat licence would be advantageous
- Experience reporting to the standards required by planning authorities, Natural Resources Wales, Natural England and other relevant bodies
- Qualifying Member status (or above) of CIEEM
- Strong technical reporting, project management and communication skills
- Experience mentoring and developing junior ecologists
- A driving licence that permits you to legally drive in the UK, along with access to a vehicle, is required for site visits and fieldwork activities.
Culture & Inclusion
Inclusion is fundamental to who we are. We are committed to equal opportunities and foster a workplace where everyone can thrive, supported by active Culture & Inclusion Committees and Employee Networks. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and are a Disability Confident Committed employer. If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know and we will be happy to support you.
