Associate Ecologist

Cobalt Consulting (UK) Ltd; Exeter; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading ecology consultancy in the United Kingdom is seeking an experienced Senior Ecologist to drive the strategic direction and manage high-profile projects. You will lead and develop a talented team while building client relationships across various sectors. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in consultancy, proven management skills, and a relevant ecological degree. This role offers a competitive salary and benefits, including flexible working arrangements and a supportive culture.

Benefits

Pension

Healthcare

Annual profit share scheme

Ongoing training, mentoring, and career development

Flexible working options

Qualifications

• Proven consultancy experience at senior level.
• Confidence in technical report preparation and review.
• Full membership of CIEEM (Chartered status desirable).

Responsibilities

• Lead complex ecological projects, from inception through to delivery.
• Manage and mentor a team of ecologists.
• Build and maintain strong client and stakeholder relationships.

Skills

Proven staff management and leadership skills

Excellent communication and client-facing ability

Commercial awareness

Education

Relevant degree in ecology or related subject

Job description

A senior leadership opportunity for an experienced ecologist to play a key role in the strategic direction of a growing consultancy. You'll lead on the delivery of complex, high-profile projects, manage and develop a talented ecology team, and drive client relationships across a broad range of sectors.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide leadership as part of the senior management team.
• Lead complex ecological projects, from inception through to delivery.
• Manage and mentor a team of ecologists, supporting professional development.
• Oversee and review technical outputs including EcIAs, HRAs, BNG assessments, ES chapters and management plans.
• Build and maintain strong client and stakeholder relationships.
• Contribute to business development and commercial strategy.

What You’ll Bring

• Relevant degree in ecology or related subject.
• Extensive consultancy experience at senior level.
• Proven staff management and leadership skills.
• Excellent communication and client-facing ability.
• Confidence in technical report preparation and review.
• Commercial awareness and a proactive approach to business growth.
• Full membership of CIEEM (Chartered status desirable).
• Full UK driving licence.

Salary & Benefits

• £50,000 - £70,000
• Pension
• Healthcare
• Annual profit share scheme.
• Flexible working between office, home, and site.
• Ongoing training, mentoring, and career development.
• Supportive, values-led culture within an employee-owned business.

Why Apply?

• Play a central role in shaping and leading a respected ecology team.
• Work on an exciting portfolio of varied and complex projects.
• Benefit from employee-ownership profit sharing and a collaborative culture.
• Enjoy career progression, flexible working, and meaningful environmental impact.

To apply, send your CV to [e-mail] or contact 07458161399 for a confidential discussion about this position.