Principal Ecologist

ZipRecruiter; Oxford; Hybrid; GBP 43,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Principal Ecologist to lead and deliver ecology projects across the South, Midlands, and Home Counties. This hybrid role offers the chance to manage projects from inception to completion within a collaborative team. The consultancy is known for its technical expertise and commitment to client-focused ecological solutions, making it a great opportunity for an experienced ecologist looking to advance their career. With a diverse client base, you'll work on impactful projects in land development, infrastructure, and conservation, while enjoying a supportive environment that values autonomy and technical quality.

Benefits

Paid professional memberships

Unlimited CPD/training budget

Bonus scheme

Generous pension scheme

Unlimited annual leave

Flexible working hours

Qualifications

• Specialist expertise in key ecological areas is essential.
• Membership of CIEEM or working towards it is required.

Responsibilities

• Lead ecology consultancy projects across various regions.
• Conduct Preliminary Ecological Appraisals and Biodiversity Impact Assessments.

Skills

Ecological expertise

Client-facing experience

Business development

GIS experience (QGIS or ArcGIS)

Education

Degree in ecology or related field

Tools

QGIS

ArcGIS

Job description

Job Description Principal Ecologist Job in Oxford

New Principal Ecologist job available with a growing independent consultancy based in Oxford. The role will support the delivery of ecology projects across the home counties, the South, and the Midlands area. This is a hybrid role and offers the opportunity to manage ecology projects from initial enquiry through to completion within a collaborative and technically focused team.

The company is a rapidly growing consultancy known for its technical expertise and commitment to delivering practical, client-focused ecological solutions. With a diverse client base across public and private sectors, the team works on projects in land development, infrastructure, and conservation across the UK. This is a great opportunity for an experienced ecologist looking to take the next step in their career, working within a growing ecology consultancy that values autonomy, technical quality, and a balanced approach to work.

Role & Responsibilities

1. Lead and deliver ecology consultancy projects across the South, Midlands, and Home Counties
2. Carry out Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs), habitat condition assessments, and Biodiversity Impact Assessments
3. Undertake protected species surveys and priority species assessments
4. Prepare tenders, Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA), and technical reporting
5. Design surveys and lead field teams across a variety of project types
6. Mentor and support junior team members, ensuring high standards of technical work and service delivery

Required Skills & Experience

1. Specialist expertise in one or more key ecological areas
2. Client-facing experience and involvement in business development
3. Degree or equivalent in ecology or a related field
4. Membership of CIEEM (or working towards membership)
5. GIS experience (QGIS or ArcGIS)

What you get back

1. £43,000 - £55,000, depending on experience
2. Paid professional memberships
3. Unlimited internal and external CPD/training budget
4. Bonus scheme
5. Generous pension scheme
6. Unlimited annual leave
7. Flexible working hours and hybrid options

Apply

If you meet the criteria above, send us your CV and portfolio. We receive a large number of applications so if you do not hear back within 7 days consider your application unsuccessful this time. We will keep a copy of your details on file for future vacancies.

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