Principal Consultant – Environmental and Ecological Assessment

Description

The Principal Consultant will lead and develop a team of aquatic ecologists, delivering expertise across all project stages—from bidding and feasibility through field survey programming, detailed design, and assessment—within the UK water industry. The role requires extensive experience in aquatic ecology investigations, consent production, and strong organisational and communication skills to deliver projects on time and budget.

Working collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team of water and environmental specialists—including experts in EIA, water resources, hydro‑ecology, hydrology, geomorphology, water quality and natural capital—the consultant will contribute to complex ecological impact and habitats regulations assessments while supporting junior staff.

• Lead and develop a team of aquatic ecologists, providing training and mentorship to junior staff.
• Deliver aquatic ecology investigations across all project stages, including field survey programming and detailed design.
• Author or review consents such as Habitats Regulations Assessments, Water Framework Directive assessments, drought permits, and INNS assessments.
• Coordinate and interpret field surveys, and plan ecological mitigation works.
• Conduct ecological impact assessments and habitats regulations assessments.
• Produce meticulous technical reports and communicate confidently with clients and stakeholders.
• Provide technical reviewing expertise and support for proposal development.

Requirements

• Apply in‑depth knowledge of UK and EU wildlife legislation, planning policies, licensing requirements, and best‑practice survey techniques.
• Manage multiple projects and proposals concurrently, demonstrating strong organisational and multi‑tasking abilities.

Benefits

Ricardo promotes a flexible work environment that supports hybrid, remote, or office‑based arrangements, emphasizing wellbeing, work‑life balance and opportunities for personal growth. Employees benefit from a culture of inclusion where every voice matters and are encouraged to use their expertise to drive positive, sustainable change.

The remuneration package includes 25 days of annual leave plus 8 flexible bank holidays, a competitive pension scheme, life assurance, reimbursement for professional subscriptions, and a range of flexible benefits supporting physical and mental health.

• Receive benefits including 25 days' annual leave, 8 flexible bank holidays, a competitive pension scheme, life assurance, health support, and flexible lifestyle benefits.

Training + Development

Interview process

Visa Sponsorship

Security clearance