Principal / Associate Ecologist - Launch your own Ecology office

Ecology by Design; United Kingdom; Hybrid; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Unlimited annual leave

Flexible working arrangements

Unlimited external training budget

In-house mental health support

Flexible working

Job summary

A leading ecological consultancy in the UK is looking for a Principal / Associate Ecologist to launch and manage an ecology office. You will deliver ecological consultancy work, manage projects, and mentor colleagues, all while contributing to the growth of the consultancy. The ideal candidate will have strong expertise in habitat surveys and species assessments, along with excellent communication skills. The role offers a competitive salary, flexible hybrid working, and the opportunity to work in a diverse and supportive environment.

Qualifications

• Strong technical experience in habitat and/or protected species surveys.
• Survey licence for at least one protected species or demonstrable specialist expertise.
• Experience in EcIA, BNG, BREEAM or related ecological assessments.

Responsibilities

• Lead ecological consultancy work including habitat surveys and reports.
• Manage and deliver projects across the Home Counties, South and Midlands.
• Support and mentor colleagues and contribute to business development.

Skills

Ecological consultancy

Habitat surveys

Communication

Organisational skills

GIS (QGIS/ArcGIS)

Education

Degree in ecology-related discipline

Current CIEEM membership (or eligibility)

Tools

Apple computer

iPhone

Job description

Principal / Associate Ecologist - Launch your own Ecology office

Join to apply for the Principal / Associate Ecologist - Launch your own Ecology office role at Ecology by Design.

The Role at a Glance

Location: UK South East / Midlands

Salary: Negotiable, depending on expertise

Contract: Full‑time, Permanent (part‑time and flexible working considered)

Pedigree: CIEEM Registered Practice, Certified “Great Place to Work”

Clients include: English Heritage, Knight Frank, Savils, Oxfordshire County Council, Ridge

Why Join Ecology by Design?

At Ecology by Design we are re‑defining what it means to be an ecological consultant – blending scientific rigour with creativity, innovation and a genuine commitment to restoring nature. Your expertise drives real‑world change rather than getting lost in bureaucracy.

We offer freedom to manage your own hours, work where you work best and take unlimited holidays when needed. Our offices are dog‑friendly, relaxed and full of energy. We celebrate diversity and support innovation through a trust‑first policy.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver and/or lead ecological consultancy work including habitat surveys (Phase 1 / NVC / UK Habitats), protected species surveys, EcIAs, Biodiversity Net Gain assessments and mitigation design.
• Manage and deliver projects across the Home Counties, South and Midlands, ensuring high‑quality, client‑focused outcomes.
• Undertake technical reviews of ecological reports and support consistent quality standards across the team.
• Support, mentor and guide colleagues (depending on experience level).
• Contribute to business development activities and help shape the growth of the consultancy.

About You

• A genuine passion for ecology and environmental conservation.
• Strong technical experience in habitat and/or protected species surveys.
• Survey licence for at least one protected species (e.g. bats, GCN, dormouse) or demonstrable specialist expertise in another ecological field.
• Excellent communication and organisational skills, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• A full UK driving licence and willingness to travel as required.
• Experience in EcIA, BNG, BREEAM or related ecological assessments.
• Experience of mentoring or line management (particularly for Principal‑level candidates).
• GIS experience (QGIS/ArcGIS – training available).
• Current CIEEM membership (or eligibility).
• Degree (or equivalent) in an ecology‑related discipline.
• Advanced or multiple species licences (e.g. Bat Low Impact, Badger).
• Experience or interest in client development and consultancy growth.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Hybrid working: flexible mix of home and office.
• Excellent training and development, including an unlimited external training budget and in‑house learning.
• Apple computer and iPhone provided.
• Unlimited annual leave and flexible working arrangements to support a healthy work‑life balance.
• A supportive, collaborative culture where your ideas and expertise are valued.
• A chance to help shape a growing consultancy’s culture and direction.

Company Culture

We maintain a health‑oriented, team‑focused culture with strong communication. We prioritise staff wellbeing through appropriate leave, in‑house mental health support and a safe working environment. While quality and timeliness of surveying and reporting are core, we also value having fun.

We are proud to be diverse and inclusive, with team members from all backgrounds – LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, and from a wide mix of cultures and experiences – and we help each person maximise their potential.

Seniority level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment type

Full‑time

Job function

Consulting and Management

Apply today and join a values‑driven consultancy where your work truly matters – to our clients, our communities and the planet.

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