Principal Ecologist

Parkside; Milton; Hybrid; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

An ecological consultancy is seeking a Principal Ecologist in Milton, UK. This role emphasizes leading ecological projects, mentoring junior staff, and ensuring high service standards. The ideal candidate will be passionate about ecology, hold relevant qualifications, and value work-life balance. Competitive salary and benefits, including unlimited leave and hybrid working options, are offered.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Unlimited annual leave

Paid professional memberships

Company-issued Apple tech

Annual training budget

Bonus scheme

Qualifications

• Demonstrable experience in team leadership.
• Survey licence for one or more protected species.
• Excellent communication skills required.

Responsibilities

• Lead and deliver a variety of ecological projects.
• Mentor and line-manage junior team members.
• Ensure high standards of service delivery.

Skills

Strong passion for ecology and the natural environment

Team leadership or mentoring experience

Survey licence for protected species

Proficiency in habitat surveys

Experience designing mitigation

Excellent interpersonal skills

Full or Chartered Member of CIEEM

Full UK driving licence

Tools

QGIS

ArcGIS

Job description

Principal Ecologist

About the Role

A dynamic and forward-thinking ecological consultancy is seeking a Principal Ecologist to join its expanding team. This role would suit a motivated Senior Ecologist ready to step up, or an experienced Principal Ecologist seeking to broaden their project exposure and play a strategic role in shaping a thriving, fast-growing consultancy.

This is a key leadership position within a collaborative and agile team. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to guide and develop junior colleagues, uphold quality standards, and contribute to the future direction of the business. Due to the project-based nature of ecological consultancy, some travel and occasional overnight stays will be required. However, work-life balance is prioritised, with caps in place for time spent away or working unsocial hours.

Projects are primarily located across the Midlands, South, and Home Counties, though work may take place throughout the UK.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and deliver a variety of ecological projects
• Provide technical oversight and review of ecological reports
• Mentor and line‑manage junior team members
• Contribute to the design and implementation of mitigation strategies
• Build and maintain client relationships
• Ensure high standards of service delivery and compliance

Essential Skills & Experience

• Strong passion for ecology and the natural environment
• Demonstrable experience in team leadership or mentoring
• Survey licence for one or more protected species (e.g. bats, great crested newts) or specialism in a relevant taxonomic group
• Proficiency in habitat surveys (Phase 1 / NVC / UK Habitats) and / or protected species work
• Experience designing mitigation and reviewing technical documentation
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Full or Chartered Member of CIEEM (or eligible)
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle

Desirable Skills

• Business development or sales experience (or willingness to learn)
• Knowledge of EcIA, BREEAM, or biodiversity net gain
• Advanced skills in a specific ecological area (e.g. bats, botany, newts)
• Experience with QGIS or ArcGIS (training available)
• EPSM or specialist mitigation licences (e.g. Bat Low Impact Class Licence)

What’s on Offer

• Competitive salary and generous pension
• Unlimited annual leave and flexible working arrangements
• Paid professional memberships
• Company‑issued Apple tech (laptop and phone)
• Annual training budget with unlimited access to external courses
• Bonus scheme awarded by peers
• A supportive, inclusive team culture
• Opportunities to shape the direction of a growing consultancy

Location

The role is based within commuting distance of Oxfordshire or Gloucestershire. Hybrid working options are available