Our client, a design practice specialising in landscape architecture and urban design, is seeking an ambitious Associate Ecologist to join their team in either their Leeds or Manchester offices. This role is a fantastic opportunity to help grow and manage a new ecology division!

About the role

• Lead and deliver ecological projects from inception to completion, ensuring high technical quality, commercial awareness, and compliance with relevant legislation and policy
• Plan, manage, and undertake complex ecological surveys, including habitat and protected species surveys, in line with best practice guidance
• Provide technical oversight, review, and quality assurance of reports and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments
• Advise clients, project teams, and stakeholders on ecological constraints, risks, and opportunities throughout the planning and development process
• Manage project programmes, budgets, and resources, ensuring work is delivered on time and within scope
• Support and mentor junior ecologists, providing technical guidance, training, and performance feedback
• Lead the design and delivery of mitigation, compensation, and biodiversity enhancement measures, including monitoring and adaptive management
• Maintain strong working relationships with clients, local planning authorities, statutory bodies, and contractors
• Contribute to business development activities, including tender preparation, fee proposals, and client relationship management
• Support Directors in strategic planning, service development, and continuous improvement of ecological processes and standards
• Ensure compliance with health and safety, quality assurance, and company management systems
• Maintain professional competence and actively contribute to industry best practice and professional bodies

About You

• 8-12 years of experience in ecology consulting
• Demonstrated experience leading teams, delivering work and winning work
• Technically Strong
• Commercially minded
• Ambitious
• Good communication, organisation, and teamwork skills.

What’s on offer

• Opportunity to manage a practice within a practice
• Clear opportunities for career development
• Great support from 3 experienced Directors
• A friendly and supportive team environment.