Principal Ecologist

Penguin Recruitment; City Of London; Hybrid; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A consultancy focused on sustainability in London is seeking a Principal Ecologist to lead and manage complex ecological projects. The role involves mentoring junior staff, delivering high-quality ecological assessments, and working closely with clients. Ideal candidates will have a degree in ecology, experience in consultancy, and strong leadership skills, with resources for professional development and competitive benefits.

Benefits

Highly competitive salary

Flexible and hybrid working options

Generous annual leave

Employee profit share scheme

Private healthcare

Enhanced pension contributions

Career development support

Qualifications

• Degree in ecology or a related environmental discipline.
• Full membership (or eligibility) of CIEEM.
• Proven experience in consultancy, project management, and client liaison.
• Strong understanding of UK and European wildlife legislation.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage ecological surveys and assessments.
• Provide expertise on ecological planning and legislation.
• Deliver environmental statements and habitat management plans.
• Manage client relationships and develop proposals.

Skills

Ecological planning expertise

Project management

Client liaison

Leadership skills

Biodiversity Net Gain delivery

Education

Degree in ecology or related discipline

Postgraduate qualification (preferred)

Job description

A sustainability-driven consultancy are looking for a Principal Ecologist to join its expanding ecology team in London. The company are well known for delivering high-quality, integrated environmental and sustainability solutions across a range of sectors - from urban regeneration to infrastructure and development. As a senior member of the team, the successful candidate will take a leading role in managing complex ecological projects, mentoring junior staff, and working closely with clients to deliver innovative and pragmatic outcomes that balance biodiversity with sustainable development.

Benefits

• A highly competitive salary based on experience.
• Flexible and hybrid working, with the option to work from home and a modern central London office.
• Generous annual leave, plus additional wellbeing days.
• Employee profit share scheme and performance-related bonus.
• Private healthcare, enhanced pension contributions, and life assurance.
• Comprehensive training and career development support, including professional subscriptions.
• The opportunity to work within a collaborative, values-led culture focused on sustainability, biodiversity enhancement, and innovation in the built environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage ecological surveys, assessments and mitigation strategies across diverse projects.
• Provide high-level technical expertise on ecological planning, legislation, and biodiversity net gain (BNG).
• Deliver robust reports, environmental statements and habitat management plans.
• Manage client relationships, develop proposals, and contribute to the growth of the ecology business.
• Support, mentor and develop a talented team of ecologists and graduates.
• Work collaboratively with other environmental and sustainability specialists to deliver integrated project outcomes.

About You

• A degree (and ideally a postgraduate qualification) in ecology or a related environmental discipline.
• Full membership (or eligibility for membership) of CIEEM.
• Proven experience in consultancy, including project management and client liaison.
• A strong understanding of UK and European wildlife legislation and planning policy.
• Demonstrable experience in delivering Biodiversity Net Gain and ecological input for EIA projects.
• A pragmatic, solution-focused mindset and strong leadership skills.

Interested in this opportunity? Please apply today or contact Ashleigh Garner from Penguin Recruitment for a confidential chat