Principal Aquatic Ecologist (SLR Consulting)

SLR currently has a great opportunity for an experienced Freshwater/Aquatic Ecologist to help play a key role in growing and developing these capabilities across the UK. We are looking for a consultant with specialist skills in freshwater, estuarine and marine ecology and a track record in undertaking Ecological Impact Assessment, Habitat Regulations Appraisals and Water Framework Directive Assessments in a range of development sectors. These include: onshore and offshore wind developments

The Role
The role will involve developing new client relationships, preparing quotations, designing and undertaking aquatic field surveys including river invertebrate, electrofishing and river habitat assessment and preparing baseline reports, impact assessment and mitigation design.

Key tasks include:
• Managing and overseeing projects and taking ownership for aquatic ecology outputs for a range of different clients.
• Preparation of fee proposals, report writing and technical review of aquatic ecology outputs.
• Supervision and mentoring of ecology staff and training.
• Developing SLR's aquatic ecology business and building the team to assist this growth.
• Communicating with clients and SLR staff in other disciplines the importance of aquatic ecology and the wildlife legislation and policy in all UK nations.
• Seeking opportunities through coordinated business development to expand ecology and other services and capabilities in the region.

About us
SLR are global leaders in environmental and advisory solutions helping our clients achieve their sustainability goals. We are a consultancy with over 4000+ employees across 6 regions. SLR's 'one team' culture is at the heart of our business; providing a collaborative and supportive environment for professional development. Along with competitive salaries, our people enjoy a comprehensive benefits and a structured career framework with regular reviews offering outstanding opportunities for progression. Alongside 25 day's annual leave, SLR offer flexible, agile and hybrid working, and family friendly policies help balance the needs of professional and family life.

About you
• Demonstrable experience of leading aquatic inputs to EcIA, EIA, HRA and WFD assessments.
• Demonstrable experience of field survey techniques for fish, freshwater macroinvertebrates and macrophytes.
• Knowledge of permitting, consents and legislation governing the aquatic and marine environments.
• Good people skills, including understanding of including/working with protected species and associated report preparation.
• Proven capabilities in wining and delivering projects,
• Team management, supervision, mentoring and growth.
• Experience within a range of sectors including energy, onshore and offshore renewables, freshwater systems, fisheries and infrastructure.
• Relevant post graduate degree level qualification plus appropriate level of membership of CIEEM or equivalent
• Full drivers licence valid in the UK.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at SLR
We are committed to being an equal opportunities employer, and our expectations go beyond purely complying with legislation. Through our Regional DE&I Committees, Global Council and Employee Networks, we foster an inclusive environment where all people regardless of their background can thrive.

We welcome applications from all individuals, regardless of their background, including those from groups that are currently underrepresented at SLR, such as: LGBTQ+ people, ethic minority groups, women, and people with visible or invisible disabilities, including those who are neurodivergent.

For more information on our commitment to DE&I, and the great work we are doing, please click here: and scroll to the bottom of the page.

To apply
If you are interested in this opportunity, we'd love to hear from you, so click apply or you can submit your application at:

Should you require any special adjustments throughout the recruitment process with us, please let us know. As a Disability Confident Committed employer, we seek to ensure all applicants have equitable support when applying to SLR.

SLR Commitment - All applicants with a disability who meet the essential requirements for the job will be guaranteed an interview in line with our Disability Confident Committed status.