Principal Ecologist

GreenJobs Ltd; England; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK environmental consultancy is seeking a Principal Ecologist to lead complex ecological projects across renewable energy and biodiversity sectors. The role requires strong knowledge of UK wildlife legislation, proven project management experience, and a degree in Ecology or Environmental Science. This position offers the chance to shape sustainable development projects while fostering professional growth and collaboration within a diverse team.

Benefits

Structured career pathways

Leadership qualifications

Opportunities to work on significant projects

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading ecological projects and designing mitigation strategies.
• CIEEM membership and at least one protected species licence required.
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a diverse portfolio of ecological projects across the UK.
• Prepare and review Ecological Impact Assessments and other evaluation documents.
• Deliver Biodiversity Net Gain assessments with measurable outcomes.
• Consult with Natural England and key stakeholders.
• Design and oversee ecological mitigation strategies.
• Mentor and develop junior ecologists.

Skills

Knowledge of UK wildlife legislation

Leadership skills

Stakeholder engagement

Ecological project management

Education

Degree in Ecology or Environmental Science

Job description

Overview

Principal Ecologist – Environmental Consultancy | Renewable Energy & Biodiversity

Location: Flexible – any of our client’s offices across England / Hybrid.
Sector: Ecology | Environmental Consultancy | Renewable Energy

About the Role
Our client, a leading UK environmental consultancy, is looking for a Principal Ecologist to lead and deliver complex ecological projects across renewable energy, infrastructure, commercial, and residential sectors. This is an excellent opportunity to shape the future of sustainable development and contribute to some of the UK’s largest offshore wind, solar, and biodiversity enhancement projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a diverse portfolio of ecological projects across the UK.
• Prepare and review Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA), Habitat Regulations Assessments (HRA), and Environmental Statement (ES) chapters.
• Deliver Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments using the Defra Biodiversity Metric, ensuring practical, measurable outcomes.
• Lead consultation with Natural England, planning authorities, and key stakeholders.
• Design and oversee ecological mitigation strategies and protected species licensing (bats, great crested newts, dormice, badgers, water vole).
• Mentor and develop junior ecologists, fostering professional growth and technical excellence.
• Manage project proposals, budgets, and client relationships in a consultancy environment.

What You’ll Bring

• Strong knowledge of UK wildlife legislation, planning policy, and ecological assessment methodologies.
• Proven experience leading ecological projects and designing mitigation strategies.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or related field (MSc desirable).
• CIEEM membership and at least one protected species licence (bats or great crested newt preferred).
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel.

Why Join Our Client

Our client champions innovation, collaboration, and professional development. As an accredited training provider, they offer structured career pathways, leadership qualifications, and opportunities to work on nationally significant projects that make a real environmental impact.

Join a company that values diversity, inclusion, and wellbeing — where your expertise helps shape a greener, more sustainable future.