The Associate Director - Ecology at AECOM will lead the planning and delivery of ecological inputs for internal and external clients across the UK and Ireland. This role is central to AECOM's Nature team, which delivers ecological solutions for major projects in energy, water, renewables, defence, and transport sectors.
What You'll Do
- Lead the planning and delivery of ecological inputs for both internal and external clients
- Produce and technically review a range of ecological assessments including Preliminary Ecological Appraisal
- Produce and technically review Protected Species Baseline Reports
- Produce and technically review Ecological Impact Assessments
- Produce and technically review Habitats Regulations Assessments
- Produce and technically review Biodiversity Net Gain Calculations
- Provide technical leadership to support the delivery of proportionate and pragmatic solutions
- Lead consultation and engagement with clients and key project stakeholders including planning authorities, statutory bodies and the public
- Play a key role in the continued development of our technical capabilities and encourage the embedding of innovation/research
- Lead the production of bids and tenders for ecological services
- Mentor and support both junior staff and peers
What We're Looking For
Nice to Have
- Experience in using innovative survey techniques for species and habitats surveys
- Experience in data capture and reporting
- Experience in work winning
- Experience in management of projects
- Experience in Habitats Regulations Assessments
- Experience in Biodiversity Net Gain
- Mentoring and coaching experience
Team & Environment
AECOM's Nature team comprises around 230 professional experts across the UK and Ireland, including species licence holders, impact assessment specialists, habitat creation experts, and ecosystem restoration professionals. The team operates with national and global leadership, fostering a supportive, inclusive, and innovation-focused culture that values contributions and is passionate about turning bold ideas into reality.
Benefits & Compensation
- Internal and external training opportunities
- Nurturing mentoring and coaching framework
- Career development opportunities
- Flexible hybrid working model to ensure work-life balance
- Technical practice networks
- AECOM University
- Volunteering days
- Core and personalised benefits designed to support future and well-being
- Customised benefits to fit lifestyle
Work Mode
Hybrid role with flexibility across the following locations: Manchester, Leeds, Basingstoke, Newcastle, Glasgow, Cambridge, Nottingham, Liverpool, and other locations across the UK. A flexible hybrid working model is offered to suit individual lifestyles.
AECOM is an equal opportunity employer and values inclusivity, diversity, and a supportive environment for all employees.
