Principal / Associate Ecologist

CleanTech Talent; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid and flexible working

Supportive, values-led culture

Clear progression opportunities

Job summary

An environmental consultancy in Manchester is seeking a Principal / Associate Ecologist who will lead and manage complex ecological projects. This role involves mentoring staff, managing budgets, and building client relationships, while enjoying a supportive and flexible work culture. Ideal candidates will have a degree in ecology, relevant project management experience, and ideally hold a protected species licence. Offers hybrid working and clear paths for progression.

Qualifications

• Degree qualified in ecology or a related discipline.
• CIEEM member (working towards or holding Chartership).
• Strong survey, reporting and project management experience.

Responsibilities

• Leading and delivering UKHab, protected species and botanical surveys.
• Producing, reviewing and approving PEAs, EcIAs, BNG reports, HRAs and mitigation strategies.
• Managing projects, budgets, forecasting and invoicing.

Skills

Surveying

Project management

Client relationship management

Ecological assessments

Education

Degree in ecology or a related discipline

CIEEM membership

Job description

Principal / Associate Ecologist – Manchester - Hybrid

An exciting opportunity to join a growing environmental consultancy with a strong ecological reputation in the North of England. We're looking for an experienced Principal or Associate Ecologist to play a key role in developing ecology services.

This position offers a blend of technical leadership, project delivery and team development, working within a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment.

The role - Principal / Associate Ecologist

You'll lead and manage complex ecological projects from inception to completion, while supporting the growth of both client relationships and internal capability. Working closely with senior leadership and colleagues across planning, landscape and environmental disciplines, you'll help shape and grow the ecology offering in the region.

Key responsibilities

• Leading and delivering UKHab, protected species and botanical surveys
• Producing, reviewing and approving PEAs, EcIAs, BNG reports, HRAs and mitigation strategies
• Managing projects, budgets, forecasting and invoicing
• Mentoring and supporting consultants and graduates
• Building and maintaining strong client relationships
• Supporting business development and work-winning activity
• Liaising confidently with LPAs and statutory bodies

About you

• Degree qualified in ecology or a related discipline
• CIEEM member (working towards or holding Chartership)
• Strong survey, reporting and project management experience
• Experience leading projects and supporting team development
• Good understanding of UK planning and environmental legislation
• Ideally holds at least one protected species licence
• Full UK driving licence

Whats on offer

• 32 hours per week
• Hybrid and flexible working
• Supportive, values‑led culture
• Clear progression and autonomy

Confidential applications and enquiries welcomed.

CleanTech Talent are acting as the exclusive hiring partner for this position.