Principal Ecologist

ZipRecruiter; Cambridge; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading environmental consultancy is seeking a highly experienced Principal Ecologist to lead projects across the East of England. This role focuses on ecological consultancy in renewable energy and infrastructure sectors, mentoring junior staff and shaping project strategy.

Benefits

Flexible working hours

Accredited training and development programmes

Inclusive workplace culture

Support for employee wellbeing

Qualifications

• At least one protected species licence (e.g., great crested newt, bats).
• FISC Level 4 desirable but not essential.
• Full UK driving licence and business insurance.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage complex ecological projects.
• Produce and peer review high-quality technical reports.
• Provide in-house training and line management to junior ecologists.

Skills

Knowledge of UK planning policy

Ecological mitigation

Communication skills

Time management

Leadership skills

Education

Degree in Ecology or related field

Full CIEEM membership

Job description

Job Description

Job Title: Principal Ecologist
Salary: £45,000 - £55,000 dependent on experience
Location: Norwich or Cambridge
Type: Permanent, Hybrid

About the Role:

Our client is seeking a highly experienced Principal Ecologist to lead a variety of projects across the East of England. This role involves delivering complex ecological consultancy work, particularly in renewable energy and infrastructure sectors, while supporting junior staff and shaping project strategy and delivery.

About the Client:

Our client is a leading UK environmental consultancy and part of a global organisation with over 30,000 professionals worldwide. The East of England ecology team supports major onshore and offshore wind projects, as well as residential and commercial developments.

Their approach is rooted in innovation, flexibility, and sustainability.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Lead and manage complex ecological projects, including NSIPs and Town & Country Planning developments
2. Produce and peer review high-quality technical reports (EcIA, HRA, ES chapters)
3. Provide in-house training and line management to junior ecologists
4. Engage with key stakeholders including Natural England and local authorities
5. Complete Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments using the Biodiversity Metric
6. Design and implement mitigation strategies for protected species
7. Manage project budgets, proposals, invoicing, and schedules

What Our Client is Looking For:

• In-depth knowledge of UK planning policy and ecological legislation
• Strong experience in habitat surveys and ecological mitigation
• Competence in UK Habitat Classification and habitat condition assessments (FISC Level 4 desirable)
• Experience working with protected species and mitigation licensing
• Excellent communication, time management, and leadership skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively

Qualifications:

• Degree (Bachelor's or Master's) in Ecology or related field
• Full CIEEM membership
• At least one protected species licence (e.g., great crested newt, bats)
• Full UK driving licence and business insurance
• FISC Level 4 desirable but not essential

What Our Client Offers:

• Flexible working hours and Time Off in Lieu (TOIL) policy
• Accredited training and development programmes, including master's-level qualifications
• Inclusive and collaborative workplace culture
• Access to a wide range of high-profile and impactful projects
• Supportive leadership with a strong focus on employee wellbeing

Eligibility:

• Right to work in the UK
• Willingness to travel across the East of England (occasional overnight stays)

Opportunity for Growth:

This is a senior-level role with potential to influence team direction and ecological outcomes regionally. Mentorship, leadership opportunities, and career progression are available within this dynamic, globally connected consultancy.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our company.

We do not discriminate based on age, gender, ethnicity, religion, marital status, veteran status, or other protected characteristics.