Principal HRA Specialist

Core responsibilities:

• Support development of technically robust and pragmatic solutions to complex HRA issues
• Lead and support delivery of high-quality HRA consultancy and advisory services to internal and external clients
• Lead and support production of HRA reports for Local Plans and Development Consent Orders across the UK, Republic of Ireland, and potentially elsewhere in Europe
• Lead on interpretation of noise, water quality, and air quality data within an HRA context
• Author or technically check project deliverables to ensure high quality outputs
• Deliver expert witness services on Local Plan HRAs and Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project Examinations
• Lead and support preparation of high quality and commercially astute bids and tenders for HRA services
• Oversee planning, scheduling and organizing all phases of HRA project work with direct client contact

This role contributes to shaping the future of the environment by working on major infrastructure projects, renewable energy initiatives, and local planning that balances development with environmental protection through Habitats Regulations Assessment.

Required skills and qualifications:

• Experience with Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA) and ecological consulting
• Ability to develop solutions to complex HRA issues
• Experience with HRA report production for Local Plans and Development Consent Orders
• Knowledge of noise, water quality, and air quality data interpretation within HRA context
• Expert witness experience or willingness to develop these skills
• Experience with bid and tender preparation for HRA services
• Project management skills including planning, scheduling, budgeting and resource management

Benefits include:

• Flexible hybrid working model for work-life balance
• Career development opportunities
• Technical practice networks
• AECOM University
• Volunteering days
• Range of core and personalised benefits designed to support future and well-being

AECOM is at the forefront of innovation, delivering an exceptional portfolio of Ecology programs and projects through long-term partnerships with key clients, with a large and growing business within the field of Habitats Regulations Assessment.