Principal Ecologist

Gaia Talent; London; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading consulting firm seeks a Principal Ecologist to spearhead ecological consultancy services for diverse environmental projects. Ideal candidates will exhibit strong project leadership and client management skills, with a focus on biodiversity and ecological protection. This role offers significant influence on planning and infrastructure development, aiming for sustainable growth while supporting junior team members.

Qualifications

• 6-8 years' experience in ecological consultancy required.
• Demonstrable expertise in habitat and protected species survey work.
• Possession of protected species licenses preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead complex ecological assessments and strategic direction across projects.
• Manage and grow client relationships to support business development.
• Mentor junior and mid-level ecologists, ensuring technical growth.

Skills

Ecological consultancy

Project leadership

Client management

Report writing

Education

Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or related discipline

Job description

1 week ago Be among the first 25 applicants

Direct message the job poster from Gaia Talent

Specialist Recruitment Consultant | Connecting Talent with Biodiversity, Environment, and Sustainability Opportunities.Passionate about driving…

I’m on the lookout for an experienced and driven Principal Ecologist to lead the delivery of high-impact ecological consultancy services across a diverse range of projects. This is a key leadership role offering the opportunity to influence major planning and infrastructure developments, balancing ecological protection with sustainable growth.

As a Principal Ecologist, you'll bring a strategic approach to project delivery, lead complex ecological assessments, and guide clients through the evolving regulatory landscape, particularly around Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), protected species licensing, and ecological mitigation. You’ll play a pivotal role in mentoring the team, deepening client relationships, and driving technical excellence across the business.

Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic direction and technical leadership across a portfolio of ecological projects.
• Oversee complex habitat and protected species surveys, including Phase 1/UK Habitat Classification assessments.
• Author and review high-level technical reports (e.g., Ecological Impact Assessments, Biodiversity Net Gain reports, and Habitat Regulations Assessments).
• Lead on ecological input for planning applications, licensing, and stakeholder negotiations.
• Manage and grow client relationships, contributing to business development and long-term partnerships.
• Support the development and mentoring of junior and mid-level ecologists, fostering technical growth and team cohesion.
• Ensure compliance with relevant legislation and planning policy, championing best practice and innovation in ecological consultancy.

Requirements:

• Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related discipline.
• At least 6–8 years’ experience in ecological consultancy, with a strong portfolio of project leadership.
• Demonstrable expertise in habitat and protected species survey work.
• In-depth knowledge of UK wildlife legislation, planning policy, and mitigation design.
• Proven track record in client management and business development.
• Excellent report writing and quality assurance skills, aligned with CIEEM standards.
• Possession of protected species licenses (Bat and/or Great Crested Newt preferred).
• Full UK driving license.
• Full or eligible for Full membership of CIEEM.

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Consulting, Project Management, and Management

• Industries

  Environmental Services and Environmental Quality Programs

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