Principal Ecologist

ZipRecruiter; Cambridgeshire and Peterborough; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading Arboricultural and Forestry Contractor as a Principal Ecologist, where you'll play a pivotal role in shaping ecological management strategies. This position involves leading ecological surveys, mentoring junior team members, and ensuring compliance with environmental legislation. With a strong focus on personal and professional development, you'll enjoy a supportive work environment that values collaboration and integrity. The company offers competitive salaries, annual performance bonuses, and a range of employee benefits, making it an exciting opportunity for those passionate about ecology and the environment.

Benefits

Company vehicle and fuel card

Annual performance-based bonus

Company pension scheme

Training and support for development

Employee Assistance Programme

Access to online GP services

Retail and leisure discounts

Social events

Length of service awards

Opportunities for volunteering

Qualifications

• Experience managing ecological projects from conception to completion.
• Understanding of habitat identification using UKHab methods.

Responsibilities

• Establish and manage Ecology resources within the company.
• Produce technical reports in a timely manner as required.
• Lead ecological surveys and logistics planning across sites.

Skills

CIEEM membership

Project management

Habitat identification

Knowledge of UK legislation

PTS certification

Class 2 Survey licence(s)

Job description

Job Description

As our Principal Ecologist, you will lead 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 key stakeholders informed of changes, and update company policies and procedures accordingly.
• Produce technical reports in a timely manner and as required.
• Coach, mentor, and develop colleagues, providing feedback and support.
• Lead ecological surveys and logistics planning across our sites.
• Undertake, supervise, and train colleagues with PEAs, ECiAs, and HRAs.
• Provide training and support for protected species surveys/reports, ecological data collection, analysis, monitoring, and reporting.
• Maintain and develop the Environmental Management System, including internal updates and support during external audits.
• Mentor and support the professional development of junior team members.

Ideal Skills and Experience:

• CIEEM membership (or working towards/willing to obtain).
• Experience managing ecological projects from conception to completion, including Phase 2 surveys.
• Understanding of habitat identification using UKHab methods and botanical species identification (FISC Level 4 minimum).
• Knowledge of UK legislation and policy related to ecology.
• 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 performance-based bonus.
• Company pension scheme.
• Training and support for personal and professional development.
• Employee Assistance Programme for health, legal, and financial support.
• Access to online GP services 24/7.
• Retail and leisure discounts.
• Social events such as Summer Family Day and Christmas party.
• Length of service awards.
• Opportunities to support social value initiatives like volunteering and fundraising.

About COOMBES UK

We are a leading Arboricultural and Forestry Contractor with over 20 years of experience, renowned for our expertise across all levels of forestry work. We serve the rail industry, offering off-track solutions and civils works in partnership with Network Rail and other major contractors. With recent growth, we are involved in woodland management, timber harvesting, and civil projects across the UK.

As a family-run SME, we value collaboration, transparency, and integrity. Our success relies on our dedicated team, and we strive to create an inclusive, diverse workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. We encourage applications from all backgrounds and are open to candidates who may not meet every qualification but are enthusiastic about joining us.

Agency Notice

We do not accept unsolicited CVs and will not be responsible for any fees related to recruitment. Please contact our Recruitment Team for further information.