Description
We are seeking an Associate Director or Technical Director in Freshwater Ecology to join our expanding Aquatic Ecology team.
You’ll act as a trusted authority on freshwater ecology, providing expertise across major UK and international infrastructure schemes, including DCO/NSIP projects, regulated water company frameworks, and long term capital programmes.
Responsibilities
In this influential role, you will:
- Lead and guide the design of freshwater and aquatic ecology baseline survey programmes for EIAs and regulatory submissions.
- Author high-quality technical reports, including EIA chapters, WFD assessments, and planning deliverables for both UK and international clients.
- Line manage and mentor talented aquatic ecologists, supporting their growth, wellbeing, and workloads.
- Prepare competitive tenders and fee estimates for medium and large-scale freshwater ecology projects.
- Support the management of the wider aquatic team,including health & safety, training, resource planning, and technical excellence.
- Build and maintain a strong profile as a recognised technical expert, contributing to WSP’s Practice Area Networks and representing the business externally.
About the Team
Our Aquatic Ecology team works across freshwater, estuarine, and marine environments on a truly exciting range of projects.
Typical portfolio areas include:
- River restoration and catchment enhancement schemes
- Design of ecological monitoring programmes
- Biodiversity Net Gain assessments
- EIA and Water Framework Directive assessments
- Salmonid habitat restoration and NEP projects for water companies
- Routine biological monitoring
- International development and R&D projects
Requirements
You will bring:
- Extensive professional experience in consultancy, regulatory bodies, or industry settings.
- Advanced technical expertise in freshwater ecology, including protected species and habitat assessment.
- A proven ability to deliver technically robust, scientifically rigorous reports for WFD assessments, EIAs, and Environmental Statements.
- Strong understanding of UK water and ecology legislation and its application within the planning process.
- Demonstrated experience managing and developing teams.
- Proven project management skills, including tender preparation and budgeting.
- A positive, collaborative, and engaging leadership style with excellent communication skills.
Benefits
At WSP, you’ll be part of a culture that values curiosity, innovation, and the drive to make a difference. You’ll have:
- The freedom to define the direction of your specialist area
- The support of a global ecology and environmental network
- A variety of UK and international projects to grow your portfolio
- Real opportunities for career development, leadership, and technical influence