Principal Ecologist

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AECOM is seeking a Principal Ecologist to lead freshwater, wetland and terrestrial ecology projects in Wellington or Christchurch, guiding field surveys, reporting, and restoration initiatives while mentoring developing ecologists and building client relationships within a collaborative national Natural Resources team. The role demands 8+ years in ecological consulting, strong field programme experience, proven project and budget management, and the ability to work independently within multidisciplinary teams. You'll oversee biodiversity assessments, stay current with NZ biodiversity policy, and travel nationwide for fieldwork. Tips: tailor your application to demonstrate leadership and multi-project delivery, quantify outcomes, highlight GIS experience, and show how you grow client relationships; apply promptly as roles may close early.

Company Description

Come grow with us.

At AECOM, we’re delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world’s trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world’s most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.

We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world.

We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.

Job Description

AECOM's Natural Resources team is delivering some of New Zealand's most significant transport, water, ecological restoration and infrastructure projects, helping shape the future of biodiversity outcomes across Aotearoa.

As our project portfolio continues to grow, we're looking for an experienced Principal Ecologist to join our national Natural Resources/Ecology team in Wellington or Christchurch. You'll provide technical leadership across a diverse range of freshwater, wetland and terrestrial ecology projects, working alongside a collaborative, high-performing team while mentoring developing ecologists and building trusted client relationships.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys technical challenges, thrives in a multidisciplinary environment and can confidently lead projects from planning through to delivery. You'll oversee ecological field programmes, biodiversity assessments and restoration initiatives, apply innovative survey techniques and deliver high-quality technical advice and reporting.

Some of your key responsibilities include:

• Lead ecological assessments across freshwater, wetland and terrestrial environments.
• Plan and undertake ecological field surveys and monitoring programmes.
• Prepare and review ecological reports, impact assessments, proposals and tender submissions.
• Provide technical leadership, mentoring and quality assurance across projects.
• Manage projects, budgets and resources to deliver successful outcomes.
• Build strong client relationships and identify opportunities to grow AECOM's ecology services.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across transport, water and infrastructure projects.
• Stay up to date with biodiversity policy, legislation and industry best practice.
• Travel throughout New Zealand to undertake fieldwork as required.

Qualifications

• 8+ years' professional experience in ecological consulting.
• Demonstrated experience leading freshwater, wetland and/or terrestrial ecology projects.
• Strong ecological survey and field programme experience.
• Excellent technical report writing and communication skills.
• Proven ability to manage projects, budgets and client relationships.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within multidisciplinary teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Relevant tertiary qualification in Ecology, Environmental Science or a related discipline.
• Experience mentoring or leading technical teams.
• Experience using GIS software (ArcGIS preferred).
• Knowledge of New Zealand biodiversity legislation, ecological assessment methodologies and restoration practices.

Additional Information

Our Ecology team is collaborative, supportive and genuinely enjoys working together. We've built a strong culture with excellent staff retention, where people are trusted, encouraged to grow their careers and given the opportunity to work on projects that have a lasting environmental impact.

You'll work alongside experienced technical specialists on some of New Zealand's most significant infrastructure and environmental programmes, with opportunities to expand your expertise across transport, water, ecological restoration and biodiversity projects.

Why you’ll love working with us

• Flexible work arrangements available, aligned with the market and client facing role requirements
• Purchase up to 6 weeks additional annual leave per year         
• Volunteer and representation leave
• Flex public holidays – swap Easter or other holidays for ones that suit you better

Ready to push the limits of what’s possible?

We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those with disabilities, additional health or mental health needs, and/or neurodiverse conditions. If you require any adjustments during the hiring process, please let us know.

Applications are reviewed as they come in, and the role may close earlier than expected, so if this opportunity sounds like you, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

Learn more about life at AECOM: LinkedIn, Facebook , Instagram, X, YouTube - explore our AECOM voices, employee stories, latest projects, and much more!

At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.

About AECOM 

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. 

AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com. 

What makes AECOM a great place to work 

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community - where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. 

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.