Company: AECOM

Position: Principal Marine Ecologist

Location: Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom

Job Description

Are you passionate about Marine Ecology? Join our dynamic Nature team as Principal Marine Ecologist and work across the UK and Ireland, with a flexible hybrid working model. You will apply your expertise on national and international projects, including high‑profile power and infrastructure schemes, floating offshore wind, interconnectors, habitat restoration, flood defence, and coastal developments such as marinas and ports.

You will work with marine and aquatic ecologists and marine EIA specialists to grow our marine ecology portfolio. Your role is client‑facing and involves technical project delivery and business development, reporting to the Marine Ecology Lead.

Responsibilities

• Subject Matter Expert: Deliver marine ecology impact assessments, including ES chapters, HRA, MCZ, and WFD, and support licence and permitting applications.
• Ensure Quality: Apply a critical eye for detail to produce high‑quality deliverables that meet strict quality management standards.
• Collaborate: Work within multidisciplinary teams to improve environmental outcomes alongside specialists in underwater acoustics, coastal processes, water science, and marine archaeology.
• Business Development: Develop technical and fee proposals, contribute to marketing and client liaison, and present to internal and external audiences.
• Project Management: Manage resources, budgets, and progress reporting. Acquire and manage specialist subcontractors and follow AECOM PM training for accreditation.
• Mentoring: Support the professional growth of team members through training and mentorship.

Qualifications

• Comprehensive marine ecological expertise with experience preparing and reviewing technical chapters and impact assessments (EIA, HRA, MCZ, WFD).
• In‑depth knowledge of UK marine consenting and licensing regimes, with experience liaising with MMO, NRW, Scottish MD, and The Crown Estate.
• Ability to provide technical advice and apply advanced scientific practices, theories, and technologies to diverse marine projects.
• Team coordination experience, including line management and mentorship of junior staff.
• Business development experience, including tender preparation and client presentations.

About AECOM

AECOM is the world’s trusted infrastructure consulting firm, delivering professional services across the project lifecycle. We focus on a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion and a commitment to environmental, social, and governance priorities.

Equal Opportunity & EEO

We celebrate diversity, including neurodiversity, and we are a Disability Confident Employer. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

ReqID

J10139600