Senior or Principal Ecologist - Auckland

Are you genuinely passionate about making a difference within the community? Do you pride yourself on bringing your professional expertise to deliver sustainable projects that leave a lasting impression? At Stantec we do just that, we design with community in mind.

Due to exciting growth in the environmental sector, we are looking for a senior or principal level Ecologist to join our Community Development team.

About our team

Our Community Development | Whakamana i te taiao team enables sustainable infrastructure that works for our communities. Our team of planners, landscape architects, environmental scientists, stakeholder engagement consultants and engineers plan, design and deliver the infrastructure and places that make our communities great. From ecological investigations and remediation to wastewater treatment and discharge consents to environmental monitoring and wetland assessments, our environmental science work touches on all aspects of people’s lives.

About the role

We're looking for someone who’s passionate about growing ecology and environmental science services across New Zealand. In this role, you’ll bring your expertise in primarily aquatic ecology as well as terrestrial related environmental knowledge — along with a proven track record for building strong client relationships, winning work, and being part of our teams ongoing success. 

Key responsibilities

• Lead investigations, field surveys and studies in specialist areas of expertise focusing on aquatic ecology but also including terrestrial ecology, wildlife, wetlands, ecological impact assessments, resource consent applications, environmental management and compliance.

• Provide technical leadership and specialist expertise across local and international projects, including leading and reviewing technical work, contributing to resource consenting processes through expert reporting and evidence, and mentoring staff to support professional development and high-quality project delivery.

• Investigate and apply innovative methodologies and technology to deliver value for clients and demonstrate technical leadership.

• Actively pursue internal and external business development opportunities to develop a pipeline of work for the team, by building and maintaining your networks, as a trusted advisor.

• Prepare and manage project proposals and tenders, developing and agreeing project scope, fees, outcomes and delivery schedule in conjunction with the Project Manager and client.

• Input to business plans and the development of strategy for achieving growth for the business.

What we offer

At Stantec, we take your growth and fulfilment seriously. We’re proud to offer many supportive benefits, including:

Professional development and support

• Flexible working arrangements, including purchasing up to an extra four weeks of leave and provision for school term contracts, part-time, and job sharing
• Learning and talent development programmes, including global, online, and on-the-job opportunities
• Professional memberships
• Service recognition awards
• Mentorship

Wellbeing and connection opportunities

• Health insurance, income continuance insurance, and life insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Developing Professionals Group, a global network for those with under 10 years of experience
• Office Social Club and events

About us

We’ve been serving our clients and communities in Aotearoa New Zealand for over 125 years. With almost 900 professionals, our team is based in the main cities and throughout the regions. We collaborate across disciplines and sectors to bring buildings, energy, water, environmental, and transport projects to life.

Globally, Stantec unites approximately 34,000 employees working in over 450 locations across six continents. Our work from initial project concept and planning through design, construction, and commissioning begins at the intersection of community, creativity, and client relationships.

How to apply

For more information, please contact Margaret McMeel on 09 580 4502 or 027 544 2930 or to apply, click the ‘apply’ button and submit your most recent CV outlining your skills meeting the criteria.

Applications close Sunday 12 March 2026