Principal Ecologist (UK wide) Are you ready to take your ecological career to the next level? Join Jacobs' UK Ecology Team as a Principal Ecologist and become part of a dynamic, forward‑thinking organisation that makes a real impact locally and globally.

We're hiring nationwide, with opportunities available in our offices across Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, London, Manchester, Newcastle, Peterborough and Reading. Wherever you're based, you'll find a welcoming team and exciting projects waiting for you.

At Jacobs, we don't just offer jobs—we build careers. You'll be joining a respected and ambitious company with a strong reputation for excellence and innovation. Our commitment to your growth is backed by:

• Global Career Framework – chart your path with clarity and purpose
• Chartership Academy Programme – support to achieve professional accreditation
• Employee Networks & Communities of Practice – connect with over 200 ecologists in the UK & Ireland, and 600+ globally
• A culture of collaboration and sustainability – work on projects that matter

Positions are available on a permanent full‑time and part‑time, job share or flexible basis.

Responsibilities

• Deliver major infrastructure projects across water, transport, and energy sectors for clients such as Anglian Water, National Highways, Network Rail, and more
• Apply expertise in Environmental Impact Assessment, Habitats Regulations Assessment, and/or Biodiversity Net Gain
• Collaborate across disciplines, ensuring ecological requirements are integrated into project design and delivery
• Lead ecological monitoring programmes, manage surveys and ensure high‑quality data collection
• Provide expert advice, acting as the main point of contact for clients and stakeholders on large‑scale projects
• Build cross‑functional networks, working with specialists across geographies and cultures to develop effective solutions
• Mentor and share knowledge through global communities of practice, conferences, and training events

Qualifications

• Strong background in terrestrial ecology with significant industry experience
• Chartered membership (or eligibility) of a relevant professional body
• Proven track record in leading ecological input on large‑scale projects
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with sharp attention to detail
• High level of personal accountability and professionalism
• Technical specialism in terrestrial ecology – or broad experience with the ability to adapt quickly to new areas

Our Culture

Our values stand on a foundation of safety, integrity, inclusion and diversity. We put people at the heart of our business and truly believe that by supporting one another through our culture of caring, we all succeed. We value positive mental health and a sense of belonging for all employees.

EEO Statement

We aim to embed inclusion and diversity in everything we do. As a Disability Confident employer, we will interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for a vacancy. We welcome applications from candidates who are seeking flexible working and from those who may not meet all the listed requirements for a role.