Ecologist

Penguin Recruitment Ltd; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

An ecological consultancy in South West England is seeking a passionate Ecologist to join their team. The role involves conducting ecological surveys, preparing reports, and contributing to project management for conservation projects. Ideal candidates should possess a degree in Ecology or Environmental Science, have 1-2 years of relevant experience, and strong communication skills. The position offers a competitive salary of £30,000-£35,000 DOE and opportunities for professional development in a supportive work environment.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Support for training and CPD

Opportunities on conservation projects

Collaborative team environment

Qualifications

• Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or related field.
• 1-2 years' consultancy experience or strong equivalent experience.
• Competency in at least one protected species survey area.

Responsibilities

• Conduct ecological field surveys, including species and habitat assessments.
• Prepare accurate ecological reports including PEA and EcIA.
• Assist in project management and coordination of fieldwork.

Skills

Good written communication

Report-writing

Knowledge of UK wildlife legislation

Field survey skills

Education

Degree in Ecology

Tools

QGIS

Job description

Ecologist – South West England
Salary: £30,000-£35,000 DOE
Contract: Full-time, permanent

We are an independent, forward‑thinking ecological consultancy based in the South West, looking for a passionate and motivated Ecologist to join our growing team. You’ll be working across a wide range of habitats, delivering high‑quality ecological surveys, reports, and advice to support clients in conservation‑minded and sustainable development projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Carry out a range of ecological field surveys, including protected species and habitat assessments.

• Prepare clear, accurate ecological reports, including PEA, EcIA, mitigation plans, and survey write‑ups.

• Assist with project management, client liaison, and coordination of fieldwork.

• Contribute to the design and implementation of ecological mitigation and enhancement strategies.

• Maintain excellent standards of data collection, GIS mapping, and record keeping.

About You

• Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related field.

• At least 1‑2 years’ consultancy experience (or strong equivalent experience).

• Good working knowledge of UK wildlife legislation and planning policy.

• Competency in at least one protected species survey area (e.g., bats, dormice, reptiles, GCN).

• Strong written communication and report‑writing skills.

• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel within the South West.

Desirable (but not essential)

• Protected species licence(s).

• Experience using QGIS or similar GIS platforms.

• Membership or eligibility for CIEEM.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary of £30‑35k DOE.

• Support for training, CPD, and gaining protected species licences.

• Opportunities to work on diverse, meaningful conservation‑led projects.

• Friendly, collaborative small‑team environment.

If you’re an enthusiastic ecologist who wants to contribute to positive environmental outcomes and join a supportive team, we’d love to hear from you.

To apply

Contact James Hardie at Penguin Recruitment