Lead Principal Ecologist (Hybrid) in Public Sector

New Start; Chelmsford; Hybrid; GBP 49,000 - 57,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Holiday entitlement

Local Government Pension Scheme

Employee Wellbeing

Volunteering leave

Eye care vouchers

Travel discounts

Retail discounts

Job summary

Essex County Council is seeking a Principal Ecologist in Chelmsford for a hybrid role, working from the office 1–2 days per week and across the operational area as required. The role leads ecological assessments (PEAR, HRA, EcIA) and coordinates multidisciplinary teams, with mobility and driving licence strongly preferred.

You will influence planning decisions, lead on habitat and species surveys, and drive business development while maintaining high standards of safety and compliance.ers.

Qualifications

• Advanced ecological expertise with substantial post-qualification experience.
• Professional accreditation including Full Membership of CIEEM.
• Experience in planning and development management for ecological assessments.

Responsibilities

• Lead on complex development consultations and deliver ecological assessments (PEAR, HRA, EcIA).
• Manage habitat and species work, surveys, and data analysis using GIS.
• Lead business development and manage client relationships.

Job description

Essex County Council is seeking a Principal Ecologist in Chelmsford for a hybrid role, working from the office 1–2 days per week and across the operational area as required. The role leads ecological assessments (PEAR, HRA, EcIA) and coordinates multidisciplinary teams, with mobility and driving licence strongly preferred.

You will influence planning decisions, lead on habitat and species surveys, and drive business development while maintaining high standards of safety and compliance.ers.