Ecologist

Shirley Parsons; Southampton; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An exciting environmental consultancy in Southampton is seeking an experienced Senior Ecologist to lead ecological projects, focusing on infrastructure, highways, and development. This role requires a solid background in ecology, client management skills, and a passion for collaboration. The company offers a competitive salary, flexible working, and strong team support.

Benefits

Competitive salary based on experience

24 days annual leave + bank holidays

Company pension scheme

Paid professional membership (CIEEM or equivalent)

Tailored training and development budget

Health & wellbeing support

Team socials and volunteering days

Wellbeing day to volunteer or take time for yourself

TOIL and Overtime options

Qualifications

• Several years' experience in ecology within the construction environment.
• Eligibility for a Natural England Class 2 licence, ideally for bats.
• Understanding of wildlife legislation and ecological mitigation.

Responsibilities

• Lead ecological projects across various sectors.
• Manage surveys, assessments, and mitigation strategies.
• Build strong client relationships to ensure timely project delivery.

Skills

Ecology within the construction environment

Understanding of wildlife legislation

Managing multiple projects

Mentoring junior colleagues

Client liaison

Natural England Class 2 licence

Education

BSc in a relevant discipline

Tools

CSCS card

UK driving licence

Job description

Overview

Our client, an exciting privately owned Environmental Consultancy, are passionate about delivering practical, science-led environmental solutions that make a genuine difference. Following several major project wins, they're growing their ecology team and are looking for an experienced Senior Ecologist to join at this exciting time.

You'll become part of a highly respected, close-knit team of senior ecologists - many of whom have been with the business for over six years - known for their collaboration, expertise, and commitment to quality. They are proud of their culture: open, supportive, and rooted in shared values. Every voice counts, and you'll have the freedom to shape your work and contribute to their continued growth.

Responsibilities

The Role

As a Senior Ecologist, you'll take the lead on a range of ecological projects across sectors including infrastructure, highways, and development. You'll combine technical expertise with a pragmatic approach - balancing robust ecological standards with the realities of project delivery. You'll manage surveys, assessments and mitigation strategies, mentor junior team members, and build strong client relationships to ensure projects are delivered on time and to an exceptional standard. This is a varied and rewarding role for someone who thrives in both the field and office, enjoys autonomy, and values being part of a collaborative team.

About You

• Have several years' experience in ecology within the construction environment.
• Hold (or are eligible for) a Natural England Class 2 licence -ideally for bats (other species such as dormouse also considered).
• Have an understanding of relevant wildlife legislation, protected species surveys, and ecological mitigation.
• Are confident managing multiple projects, liaising with clients, and supporting junior colleagues.
• A full or associate member of CIEEM is desired.
• Hold a BSc in a relevant discipline, a CSCS card, and a full UK driving licence.
• Bring positivity, curiosity, and a passion for continual learning and collaboration.

What You'll Get

• Competitive salary based on experience
• 24 days annual leave + bank holidays
• Company pension scheme
• Paid professional membership (CIEEM or equivalent)
• Tailored training and development budget
• Hybrid and flexible working
• Health & wellbeing support, including EAP and Mental Health First Aiders
• Team socials, volunteering and wellbeing days
• Opportunities to help shape Enims' next phase of growth
• Wellbeing day to volunteer or take time for yourself
• TOIL and Overtime options