Principal/Associate Ecologist

ZipRecruiter; Little Milton; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An ambitious consultancy is seeking a dedicated ecology professional to lead a growing team and manage diverse ecology projects across the UK. This role offers the chance to shape the future of the business while enjoying a supportive work environment that prioritizes work-life balance. With a focus on professional growth, the company provides unlimited training opportunities and flexible working arrangements. If you are passionate about ecology and eager to make a difference, this is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a vibrant and innovative team.

Benefits

Pension scheme

Apple computer and iPhone for work use

Paid professional memberships

Unlimited annual leave

Flexible working arrangements

In-house and unlimited external training budget

Qualifications

• Strong passion for ecology and environmental sustainability.
• Experience managing or mentoring junior team members.
• Survey licence for protected species (e.g., bats, newts).

Responsibilities

• Lead and guide junior ecologists while managing projects.
• Conduct habitat and protected species surveys.
• Foster strong relationships with clients and stakeholders.

Skills

Ecology and environmental sustainability

Managing or mentoring junior team members

Survey licence for protected species

Habitat and protected species surveys

Designing and implementing mitigation strategies

Communication and interpersonal skills

Full membership of CIEEM

Full driving licence and access to a car

Education

Degree in ecology-related field

Tools

QGIS

ArcGIS

Job description

Job Description

Cobalt has an exciting opportunity for a dedicated ecology professional eager to grow with an ambitious company. The role involves managing a developing team and working on a range of ecology projects across the UK, primarily in the Home Counties, South, and Midlands. The company values individuals who are passionate about ecology and looking to shape the future of a thriving business. Our client offers a supportive work environment with a focus on work-life balance, providing flexibility and opportunities to achieve personal and career objectives.

Travel and occasional overnight stays are required due to the nature of project work, but with capped travel commitments to maintain a balanced lifestyle.

Responsibilities

• Lead and guide junior ecologists while managing projects.
• Conduct habitat and protected species surveys, including Phase 1 or NVC/UK Habitats, and mitigation design and implementation.
• Review and provide technical input on ecological reports.
• Foster strong relationships with clients, colleagues, and stakeholders.
• Contribute to the continued growth and development of the consultancy.

Essential Skills and Experience

• A strong passion for ecology and environmental sustainability.
• Experience managing or mentoring junior team members.
• Survey licence for protected species (e.g., bats, newts) or specialist expertise in other taxa (e.g., botany, invertebrates).
• Strong experience in habitat and protected species surveys.
• Competence in designing and implementing mitigation strategies.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Full membership of CIEEM (or eligibility to achieve this).
• Full driving licence and access to a car.

Desirable Skills

• Degree or equivalent in an ecology-related field.
• Proficiency with QGIS or ArcGIS (training available).
• Experience in sales/business development or a willingness to learn.
• Knowledge and experience of EcIA, BREEAM, or biodiversity net gain.
• Advanced knowledge in specific ecological fields (e.g., bats).
• European Protected Species Mitigation (EPSM) licences or similar qualifications.

What We Offer

• Salary: £45,000 - £55,000 based on experience.
• Pension scheme.
• Apple computer and iPhone for work use.
• Paid professional memberships.
• In-house and unlimited external training budget for continuous development.
• Unlimited annual leave with flexible working arrangements.
• A vibrant, innovative work environment that rewards hard work and dedication.