Ecologist

Penguin Recruitment; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 28,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading ecological consultancy based in Manchester is seeking an experienced ecologist to lead and conduct ecological surveys, prepare reports, and contribute to biodiversity strategies. Candidates should hold a relevant degree and have at least 2 years' consultancy experience in ecology. This role offers competitive pay between £28,000 and £35,000 and the opportunity for flexible working arrangements.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Flexible / hybrid working arrangements

Continued professional development

Qualifications

• At least 2 years' consultancy experience in ecology.
• Membership (or eligibility) of CIEEM.
• Protected species licence(s) desirable (e.g. bat, GCN).

Responsibilities

• Undertake and lead protected species and habitat surveys.
• Prepare ecological reports, impact assessments, and mitigation strategies.
• Contribute to biodiversity net gain initiatives.

Skills

Strong knowledge of UK wildlife legislation

Excellent report writing

Communication skills

Education

Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or related field

Job description

Overview

Manchester (£28,000-£35,000 DOE)

Location: Manchester (Hybrid / Flexible Working Available)

Salary: £28,000 - £35,000 per annum, depending on experience

Contract: Permanent, Full-time

About the Role

You'll play a key role in delivering a range of ecological surveys, assessments, and reports for diverse projects across the UK. Working closely with experienced ecologists, you'll contribute to high-quality outputs that support planning applications, conservation objectives, and biodiversity enhancements.

What's on Offer

• Competitive salary (£28,000-£35,000 DOE).
• Flexible / hybrid working arrangements.
• Continued professional development and support toward chartership.
• A friendly, collaborative team culture.
• Opportunities to work on varied and meaningful ecological projects across sectors.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake and lead protected species and habitat surveys (e.g. bat, GCN, reptile, botanical).
• Prepare ecological reports, impact assessments, and mitigation strategies.
• Support project management and client liaison to ensure timely, high-quality deliverables.
• Contribute to biodiversity net gain (BNG) and ecological enhancement initiatives.
• Assist with mentoring junior team members and promoting best practice in fieldwork and reporting.

About You

• Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• At least 2 years' consultancy experience in ecology.
• Strong knowledge of UK wildlife legislation and survey methodologies.
• Membership (or eligibility) of CIEEM.
• Protected species licence(s) desirable (e.g. bat, GCN).
• Excellent report writing and communication skills.
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel for site work.