Principal Ecologist

CleanTech Talent; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

An environmental consultancy in Manchester is seeking a Principal / Associate Ecologist to lead and manage ecological projects. This role involves leading surveys, producing reports, and mentoring junior staff within a flexible and supportive environment. The ideal candidate will have a degree in ecology, strong project management experience, and leadership skills. This position offers a hybrid working model, allowing for a work-life balance while contributing to significant ecological projects.

Benefits

Hybrid and flexible working

Supportive, values-led culture

Clear progression and autonomy

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage complex ecological projects from start to finish.
• Produce and approve ecological reports and strategies.
• Mentor and support junior consultants and graduates.
• Build and maintain client relationships.

Skills

Technical leadership

Project delivery

Team development

Client relationship management

Ecological survey and reporting

Education

Degree in ecology or a related discipline

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.