Ecologist

Penguin Recruitment; Eastleigh; Hybrid; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

An environmental consultancy in Southampton is looking for a passionate Ecologist to join their team. This role offers a chance to support and lead ecological surveys, engage with clients, and ensure high-quality technical reports. Ideal candidates will have a degree in ecology, experience in consultancy, and strong skills in habitat surveys. The company provides flexible working arrangements, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional development in a friendly workplace culture focused on sustainability.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Flexible working arrangements

Ongoing CPD support

Inclusive workplace culture

Qualifications

• A degree in ecology, environmental science, or related discipline is required.
• Experience in consultancy is necessary.
• Strong field skills in UK habitat and protected species surveys are essential.
• Good knowledge of relevant legislation and planning policy is expected.
• Excellent report writing and communication skills are a must.
• Holder of (or pursuing) a protected species licence is desirable.
• Membership of CIEEM or eligibility for membership is required.

Responsibilities

• Undertake and manage Phase 1 habitat and protected species surveys.
• Prepare ecological assessments including PEAs and EcIAs.
• Design and implement mitigation and enhancement strategies.
• Liaise with clients and stakeholders.
• Assist with licensing applications and project management.

Skills

Field skills in habitat surveys

Client engagement

Report writing

Knowledge of legislation

Education

Degree in ecology or environmental science

Job description

Ecologist - Southampton

A growing environmental consultancy based in Southampton is seeking a passionate and motivated Ecologist to join its dynamic team. This forward‑thinking organisation specialises in delivering innovative, science‑led ecological solutions for a diverse portfolio of projects across the UK, from infrastructure and development to conservation and biodiversity enhancement.

The successful candidate will support and lead on a range of ecological surveys, assessments, and mitigation strategies. They will play a key role in project delivery, client engagement, and ensuring high standards of technical reporting and fieldwork. This is an exciting opportunity for someone looking to further their career within a collaborative and supportive consultancy environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake and manage Phase 1 habitat and protected species surveys
• Prepare ecological assessments including PEAs, EcIAs, and HRA reports
• Design and implement mitigation and enhancement strategies
• Liaise with clients, stakeholders, and statutory bodies
• Assist with licensing applications and project management
• Contribute to internal knowledge sharing and mentoring of junior staff

About You

• A degree in ecology, environmental science or a related discipline
• Consultancy experience
• Strong field skills and experience in UK habitat and protected species surveys
• Good knowledge of relevant legislation and planning policy
• Excellent report writing and communication skills
• Holder (or working toward) a protected species licence (e.g. bat, GCN) desirable
• Membership of CIEEM or eligible for membership

What's Offered

• Competitive salary, commensurate with experience
• Flexible working arrangements and hybrid office/home set‑up
• Ongoing CPD and support for professional development
• A friendly and inclusive workplace culture with a focus on sustainability
• Opportunities to contribute to exciting, high‑impact environmental projects

If interested, please apply to this advert or contact Ashleigh Garner from Penguin Recruitment for more information.

Job Info

• Job Title: Ecologist
• Company: Penguin Recruitment
• Location: Southampton, Hampshire
• Closes: Jan 13th 2026
• Sector: Agriculture
• Contract: Permanent
• Hours: Full Time