Principal Ecologist

JR United Kingdom; Cambridgeshire and Peterborough; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Principal Ecologist to lead ecological management strategies and provide expert support. This role involves managing resources, advising on environmental legislation, and mentoring junior staff. The company offers a competitive salary, annual bonuses, and a range of benefits including a company vehicle, pension scheme, and training opportunities. Join a collaborative team dedicated to ecological excellence and make a significant impact on exciting projects across the UK.

Benefits

Company vehicle and fuel card

Annual bonus based on performance

Company pension scheme

Training and development opportunities

Employee Assistance Programme

24/7 online GP access

Retail and leisure discounts

Social events

Length of service awards

Community involvement opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience managing ecological projects from conception to completion.
• Knowledge of habitat identification and botanical species identification.

Responsibilities

• Establish and manage Ecology resources within the company.
• Advise on environmental legislation and update policies.
• Lead ecological surveys and logistics planning across sites.

Skills

Ecological project management

Habitat identification

Botanical species identification

Understanding of UK legislation

Coaching and mentoring

Education

CIEEM membership

PTS certification

Job description

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Principal Ecologist

As our Principal Ecologist, you will lead on and provide expert support, training, and guidance to develop COOMBES ecological management strategies, plans, and budget costs alongside our Environmental Manager.

Responsibilities

• Establish and manage Ecology resources within the company
• Advise on environmental legislation, keep stakeholders informed of changes, and update policies accordingly
• Produce technical reports promptly and meet requirements
• Coach, mentor, and develop colleagues, providing feedback and support
• Lead ecological surveys and logistics planning across sites
• Supervise and train colleagues with PEAs, ECiAs, and HRAs
• Provide training and support for protected species surveys, ecological data analysis, monitoring, and reporting
• Maintain and develop the Environmental Management System, including internal updates and external audits
• Mentor and support the professional development of junior team members

Qualifications and Experience

• CIEEM membership or willingness to obtain
• Experience managing ecological projects from conception to completion, including Phase 2 surveys
• Knowledge of habitat identification using UKHab methods and botanical species identification (FISC Level 4 minimum)
• Understanding of UK legislation and policy
• PTS certification
• Class 2 Survey licence(s) for protected species

Experience in rail or infrastructure projects is advantageous but not essential.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary (reviewed annually)
• Company vehicle and fuel card
• Annual bonus based on company performance
• Company pension scheme
• Training and development opportunities
• Employee Assistance Programme for health and legal support
• 24/7 online GP access for you and your family
• Retail and leisure discounts
• Social events like Summer Family Day and Christmas party
• Length of service awards
• Opportunities for community involvement and volunteering

About COOMBES UK

We are a leading Arboricultural and Forestry Contractor with over 20 years of experience, specializing in forestry work at all levels. We serve the rail industry, providing off-track solutions and civils works in partnership with Network Rail and other contractors.

Following significant growth, we have exciting projects in woodland management, timber harvesting, rail, and civils works across the UK. We value collaboration, transparency, and integrity, and believe our success stems from our dedicated team.

Diversity and Inclusion

We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued. We encourage applications from all backgrounds and treat all candidates fairly. Even if you don't meet all qualifications, we welcome your application for this or future roles.

Agency Notice

We do not accept unsolicited CVs and are not responsible for fees related to them. Please contact our Recruitment Team for more information.