Principal Ecologist

Role Overview

We are seeking a distinguished ecologist with profound technical skills and a passion for addressing intricate environmental challenges. As a Principal Ecologist at Beca, you will deliver expert ecological guidance across numerous projects spanning New Zealand, Australia, and the Pacific region. This position suits an individual recognised in the ecology field who thrives on applying advanced expertise, shaping project outcomes, and collaborating within multidisciplinary teams to achieve sustainable, forward-thinking results.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead technical aspects of a broad array of ecological projects, oversee assessment methodologies, review technical deliverables, and uphold superior quality standards.
• Serve as a reliable ecological advisor to clients, teams, and stakeholders, offering robust and sustainable ecological solutions for complex endeavors.
• Drive strategic initiatives including bids, proposals, and tenders by leveraging ecological knowledge to win and execute substantial projects across New Zealand, Australia, and the Pacific.
• Foster productive relationships with clients, regulatory bodies, iwi, contractors, and cross-disciplinary teams to enhance collaboration and trust in Beca’s ecological expertise.
• Work collaboratively with specialists company-wide to craft integrated scientific, engineering, and environmental strategies and extend cooperation with the Australian ecology division.
• Maintain technical leadership by staying updated on biodiversity policies, laws, and industry standards while boosting the development and reputation of the ecology team.

Candidate Profile

• Holds an ecology degree and brings substantial consultancy experience with acknowledged expertise in terrestrial and/or freshwater ecology, managing complex projects and ecological evaluations.
• Possesses in-depth knowledge of New Zealand’s environmental laws, policies, and regulatory procedures, complemented by strong analytical capabilities, sound judgement, and practical problem-solving aptitude.
• Experienced in offering technical leadership, conducting peer reviews, guaranteeing quality, mentoring colleagues, and promoting excellence within cooperative, multidisciplinary environments.
• Maintains an established professional network and excels in cultivating client partnerships, securing projects, and contributing to the ecology service expansion.
• CEnvP Ecology Specialist accreditation is preferred or in progress, with additional exposure to hearings, Board of Inquiry, or Environment Court proceedings considered an advantage.
• Expertise in freshwater ecology, ornithology, or botany is highly valued.
• Possesses New Zealand work authorization and holds a valid driver's license.

Why Join Beca?

• Engage in nationally significant and technically demanding projects.
• Collaborate extensively with experts in environmental engineering, planning, hydrogeology, digital technologies, and other fields.
• Influence the direction of the ecology practice and contribute to its growth across Australia and the Pacific.
• Develop integrated solutions that harmonize environmental, social, and engineering considerations.
• Be part of a supportive and collegial team environment that values collaboration and mutual success.