Principal Ecologist

Hunter Dunning; Manchester; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 53,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading environmental consultancy in Manchester seeks a Principal Ecologist to deliver projects that balance environmental protection with development needs. Join a multidisciplinary team focused on high-quality solutions in ecology, while managing teams and engaging with clients across the UK.

Benefits

Enhanced annual leave scheme

Option to buy/sell days

Qualifications

• Comprehensive knowledge of UK ecology and environmental legislation.
• Expertise in protected species surveys and mitigation projects.
• Proven leadership skills with track record in mentoring junior ecologists.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of consultants, ensuring high-quality reports.
• Oversee project management and delivery of consultancy services.
• Engage with clients to secure new work and maintain relationships.

Skills

UK ecology knowledge

Environmental legislation knowledge

Protected species surveys expertise

Leadership skills

Consultancy experience

Education

Natural England protected species licence

CIEEM / Chartered status

Full UK Driving Licence

Job description

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Principal Ecologist Job in Manchester/ Remote

New available, with an established consultancy, working as part of the Manchester office for the terrestrial ecology division to deliver a range of environmental projects. This role involves collaborating with various clients across the UK, including conservation agencies, development sectors, and the water and energy industries. The aim is to balance environmental protection with development needs, ensuring that work adheres to the highest standards while fostering ecological conservation.

A leading environmental consultancy, they specialise in providing expert advice and services across terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Their work spans a wide range of industries, including conservation, water, and energy, with a focus on balancing environmental protection and sustainable development. The consultancy is known for its multidisciplinary team of scientists and its commitment to delivering high-quality, evidence-based solutions to complex environmental challenges across the UK.

Role & Responsibilities

• Collaborate with senior management to expand the business and set strategic goals
• Lead and mentor a team of consultants, ensuring high-quality reports and outputs
• Oversee project management and the delivery of consultancy services
• Participate in business development and networking events
• Engage with clients, maintaining and expanding relationships to secure new work
• Ensure compliance with health and safety standards and contribute to continuous improvements.

Required Skills & Experience

• Comprehensive knowledge of UK ecology and environmental legislation
• Expertise in protected species surveys and mitigation projects
• Experience managing a terrestrial ecology portfolio and offering ecological advice to clients
• Proven leadership skills with a track record of mentoring junior ecologists
• Experience working within a consultancy
• Natural England protected species licence or equivalent expertise
• CIEEM / Chartered status is strongly desirable
• Full UK Driving Licence.

What you get back

• Salary of £45,000 – £52,500
• Enhanced annual leave scheme and option to buy/sell days