Principal Ecologist - Darwin

About the Company and Position

SLR is a global environmental consultancy known for delivering bespoke, high-quality services. With over 1,000 personnel across the APAC region, the company advises an extensive variety of clients including businesses, regulators, and governments. SLR promotes a unified team culture that values diverse perspectives to optimize results.

Currently, there is a unique opportunity within the Darwin Ecology team due to a robust project pipeline across diverse industries. The new Principal Ecologist will be part of a close local team and connected to an APAC-wide group of more than 150 ecology professionals engaged in terrestrial, aquatic, and marine projects.

This senior role emphasizes strong technical leadership to maintain the quality standards that clients expect. Responsibilities include mentoring team members, managing important client partnerships, and aiding business growth strategies.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Produce clear, precise, and high-quality ecological reports.
• Oversee and coordinate complex projects across multiple industry sectors, collaborating within multidisciplinary teams when needed.
• Lead the design and execution of ecological field survey programs focused on monitoring and impact assessment.
• Handle resource planning to ensure the right personnel are assigned and set up for success on projects.
• Build and strengthen effective working relationships with clients and SLR colleagues.
• Leverage an existing professional network and ability to secure new projects is valuable.
• Provide coaching and mentorship, supporting team members’ professional growth and training in both consulting and technical skills.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• A tertiary degree in Science, Environmental Science, Environmental Management, Natural Resources, or a closely related field.
• More than 10 years of experience in ecological roles within environmental consulting, industry, or government sectors, including conducting ecological surveys and report writing.
• Proven track record of winning, leading, and managing projects successfully.
• Comprehensive understanding of relevant environmental laws and regulatory guidelines.
• Experience designing and implementing flora and fauna survey and monitoring programs.
• Advanced skills in report preparation and related computer applications, capable of producing material for publication.
• Ability to manage deadlines and juggle multiple responsibilities effectively.
• Experience leading multidisciplinary teams and projects.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; persuasive and confident.
• Collaborative approach and commitment to working across teams and geographies with a unified mindset.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a strategic outlook.
• Team leadership experience is essential.
• Botanical expertise is advantageous but not mandatory.

Company Culture and Benefits

SLR prides itself on a collaborative culture that supports diverse working styles, including office-based, remote, and hybrid setups. The company offers a wide range of benefits designed to accommodate individual needs.

Recruitment Process

Hiring decisions focus on candidates’ skills, experience, and enthusiasm for the role. Interviews involve diverse panels to promote inclusivity. Applicants are encouraged to disclose their pronouns and any interview accommodations they require. Spontaneous applications from recruitment agencies are not accepted unless coordinated via preferred supplier protocols.