Principal Ecologist

Penguin Recruitment; Oxford; Hybrid; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

An environmental consultancy in Oxford is seeking a Principal Ecologist. This role involves leading complex ecological assessments, managing multi-disciplinary projects, and mentoring junior staff. The ideal candidate should have at least 7 years of ecological consultancy experience, a degree in a related field, and excellent communication skills. This position offers a competitive salary and opportunities for career growth in a supportive, hybrid working environment.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Opportunities for progression

Flexible working

Collaborative culture

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in ecological consultancy.
• Experience delivering and managing complex ecological projects.
• Full UK driving licence.

Responsibilities

• Lead ecological assessments and reviews.
• Provide ecological advice to clients and authority.
• Mentor junior ecologists.

Skills

Ecological assessments

Communication skills

Project management

Client relationship management

UK wildlife legislation

Education

Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science or related field

Tools

GIS

Job description

Principal Ecologist

Location: Oxfordshire
Salary: 35,000- 45,000 DOE
Contract: Full-time, Permanent

About Our Client

Our client is a respected environmental consultancy known for delivering innovative, evidence-led ecological solutions across a wide range of development and conservation projects. They are seeking an experienced Principal Ecologist to take a senior leadership role within their Oxfordshire team, driving technical excellence, supporting strategic growth, and managing high-profile projects.

The Role

As Principal Ecologist, you will lead complex ecological assignments, act as a technical expert within the team, and ensure the successful delivery of projects from inception to completion. You will play a key role in mentoring staff, strengthening client relationships, and contributing to the long-term development of the ecology service line.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, oversee, and review complex ecological assessments and EcIAs.
• Provide high-level ecological advice to clients, project teams, and planning authorities.
• Manage major or multi-disciplinary projects, ensuring quality, compliance, and timely delivery.
• Act as a subject-matter expert in one or more specialisms (e.g., bats, habitats, licensing).
• Prepare and peer-review technical reports, including EIAs, mitigation strategies, and licence applications.
• Mentor, supervise, and develop junior and mid-level ecologists.
• Support business development through proposal writing, fee proposals, and client relationship management.
• Represent the ecology team at meetings, workshops, and public consultations when required.

Essential Requirements

• Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science or related field.
• Significant experience (typically 7+ years) within ecological consultancy.
• Strong understanding of UK wildlife legislation, planning policy, and national guidance.
• Demonstrable experience delivering and managing complex ecological projects.
• One or more protected species licences (e.g., bat, GCN, dormouse).
• Proven track record in client-facing roles and project leadership.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Full UK driving licence.

Desirable Skills

• Full CIEEM membership or eligibility.
• Experience contributing to or leading multi-disciplinary environmental projects.
• Habitat creation/management design experience.
• Strong GIS or data management skills.
• Chartered Ecologist (CEcol) status or working towards it.

What's on Offer

• Competitive salary of 35,000- 45,000 DOE.
• Clear opportunities for progression into technical or team leadership roles.
• Supportive and collaborative consultancy culture.
• Flexible, hybrid working and a diverse project portfolio.

Contact James Hardie at Penguin Recruitment for more information.