Lead and shape marine ecological practice across the UK and Ireland by delivering technically robust assessments and guiding project teams through complex marine development cycles. In this senior role, you will take ownership of marine ecology input across major infrastructure projects, from initial scoping through Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Development Consent Order (DCO) processes to final reporting.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the preparation of marine ecology impact assessments, including Environmental Statement (ES) chapters, Habitat Regulations Assessments (HRA), Marine Conservation Zone (MCZ) evaluations, and Water Framework Directive (WFD) compliance studies
- Provide expert advice on marine consenting, permitting, and licensing requirements for offshore and coastal developments
- Translate complex scientific findings into clear, audience-appropriate content for clients, regulators, and stakeholders
- Manage project budgets, resources, and timelines, ensuring all outputs meet strict quality standards and compliance protocols
- Collaborate with specialists in acoustics, coastal engineering, marine archaeology, and water science to deliver integrated solutions
- Support business development through proposal writing, client engagement, and technical marketing initiatives
- Present findings confidently to internal teams and external partners, contributing to strategic decision-making
- Mentor junior staff, lead training initiatives, and help build technical capacity within the marine ecology team
- Oversee subcontractors and contribute to project management accreditation within the organisation
What We’re Looking For
You bring proven experience in marine ecological assessment and project leadership, with a strong track record in EIA/DCO processes and regulatory compliance. Your expertise includes marine impact assessments, permitting support, and clear communication of scientific data. You have successfully managed multidisciplinary teams, led client-facing work, and contributed to technical proposals and fee development.
Preferred backgrounds include work in offshore renewable energy, interconnector projects, coastal defence, habitat restoration, or large-scale marine infrastructure. Experience in client engagement, business development, and presenting technical content to diverse audiences is highly valued.
Work Environment & Support
This role operates under a flexible hybrid model, with base locations across Basingstoke, Manchester, Glasgow, Bristol, Leeds, Birmingham, Cambridge, and Dublin. You’ll have the freedom to work remotely or from office as project needs allow. Our culture prioritises professional growth, inclusivity, and innovation, with access to technical networks, learning platforms, and structured development pathways.
We support work-life balance through adaptable schedules, personalised well-being benefits, and opportunities for community involvement. As part of a practice committed to sustainable outcomes, you’ll contribute to projects that advance environmental resilience and responsible infrastructure development.
