We are thrilled to announce that we are seeking a highly motivated, passionate, and experienced principal/lead ecologist to join our team. This is an exciting opportunity to join a growing, supportive, and ambitious UK-wide Ecology team at Stantec. As a Principal/ Lead Ecologist, you will collaborate with teams from different disciplines, with the support of a growing wider UK Ecology Team. You will support our existing partnerships with various water utilities, as well as pursuing new opportunities. As the Principal/ Lead ecologist in the South West, you will have the opportunity to shape the future of our ecological aspirations. You will be responsible for building a team of talented and passionate professionals who share our vision of innovation, scientific research and a forward-thinking approach to biodiversity. You will also oversee the expansion of our ecological presence in the region by fostering new client relationships and leading in excellence underpinned by implementing best practices. You will be a key player in advancing our UK presence and supporting our reputation for excellence in the field of ecology . You will be responsible for managing complex ecological issues within a project context, mentoring staff, engaging with clients, and supporting bids and tenders to increase the diversity of projects that we currently deliver. The position will give you the opportunity to work with autonomy and build a successful team, designed around your passion for ecology. Although Stantec has a large team of ecologists, we currently don’t have any ecologists specifically supporting our water utility frameworks in the north of the UK. The candidate will have support from the ecology water lead and other principal ecologists within the wider team but will be expected to act with some autonomy to build a team and secure opportunities for a growing team. **About You** You will be a seasoned Ecologist with extensive experience navigating the intricacies of professional consultancy. You'llbe a master of tackling complex ecological challenges within project contexts, drawing upon your in-depth knowledge of relevant legislation and policy. Your expertise extends beyond legal frameworks. You will hold a wide understanding of terrestrial ecological issues, ideally backed by a protected species licence or a focused specialism in a particular area. Your skillset shines in conducting thorough assessments like PEAs, ECIAs, and ecological chapters, along with HRA contributions. Familiarity with UKHab classification and the Defra Metric is essential, as is the ability to craft compelling fee proposals and manage project budgets. While experience in winning work and team development is a bonus, your passion for ecology and expertise are what truly matter. Ifyou're ready to take charge of complex ecological projects and make a real difference, step forward!We're eager to welcome you to our dynamic team. **About Stantec** The Stantec community unites over 31,000 employees working in over 450 locations across 6 continents. We have worked with our clients and communities in the UK for over 150 years. We plan, design, deliver and manage the development and infrastructure needed to support the creation of sustainable, healthy and prosperous communities. Our teams provide effective and relevant solutions, translating our clients’ vision into valued consents, deliverable plans for projects and programmes, and efficient designs for delivery, based on technical excellence and deep market insights. We deal with today’s challenges but also keep a fairer, better tomorrow in sight, looking at how we deliver clean growth, support radical changes in our economy and meet the needs of future communities. **ReqID:** 6677