This is an exciting opportunity to join a landmark energy infrastructure project in the Central West of New South Wales - a region at the heart of Australia's transition to a renewable future. The project encompasses large-scale transmission infrastructure and involves complex environmental post-approvals/ construction phase across ecologically diverse and sensitive landscapes of the Central West.

Our team is committed to delivering outcomes that meet regulatory requirements while achieving genuine environmental best practice. The successful candidate will be based full-time at the project site office, embedded in the project environment team, and will work closely with environmental advisors, engineers, construction personnel, and regulators.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Senior Ecologist (Project Ecologist) is a key environmental delivery role responsible for providing expert ecological input across all phases of a major energy infrastructure project in Central West NSW. You will lead a team of ecologists in ecological surveys, advise construction teams in the field, and ensure compliance with management plans, and state and Commonwealth legislation.

This is a 12-month full-time contract, site-based Monday to Friday at the project site office in the Central West. On-site accommodation is provided during the working week, making this an ideal opportunity for candidates willing to relocate temporarily. The role is dynamic and client-facing, requiring both technical rigour and the ability to communicate ecological requirements clearly to non-specialist audiences.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Construction Phase Support

• Provide on-site ecological supervision during clearing, earthworks, and construction activities
• Implement and oversee pre-clearance surveys, fauna rescues, hollow occupancy assessments and exclusion fencing programs
• Ensure compliance with the Biodiversity Management Plan and related plans

Ecological Surveys & Assessment

• Plan and lead targeted and systematic flora and fauna surveys, including threatened species assessments
• Undertake and supervise habitat assessments and monitoring programs

Reporting

• Prepare high-quality technical reports, compliance monitoring reports, and management plans
• Present findings to internal project teams

 Team Leadership 

• Acting as the day-to-day point of contact for our client on-site, building and maintaining a strong working relationship
• Liaising with clients, contractors, and regulatory bodies
• Managing field logistics, scheduling, and safety compliance
• Mentoring junior team members and supporting their professional development

SELECTION CRITERIA

Essential

• Tertiary qualifications in ecology, environmental science, biology, or a related discipline
• Minimum 4 years of professional experience in environmental consulting, with demonstrated experience as a Project Ecologist
• Strong knowledge of Australian flora and fauna, particularly threatened species and ecological communities
• Demonstrated ability to lead and supervise field survey programs, and problem solve
• Experience supporting infrastructure projects during construction (site-based work)
• Current driver's licence, construction white card and first aid

Highly Desirable

• Demonstrated experience on infrastructure projects 
• Familiarity with the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 (NSW)

WHAT WE OFFER

• Attractive salary commensurate with experience - above-award rates
• On-site accommodation provided Monday to Friday - no need to arrange your own housing during the working week
• 12-month full-time contract on a major, high-profile renewable energy project
• Opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to Australia's renewable energy future
• Exposure to technically complex, large-scale infrastructure in the Central West NSW renewables zone
• Supportive team culture with a strong focus on professional development