Principal Ecologist

Hunter Dunning Limited; Oxford; Hybrid; GBP 43,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative consultancy in the ecological sector is seeking a Principal Ecologist to lead diverse projects across the South and Midlands. This hybrid role offers the chance to manage ecology projects from inception to completion, collaborating with a skilled team dedicated to delivering client-focused ecological solutions. The position emphasizes autonomy and technical excellence, making it an ideal opportunity for experienced ecologists looking to advance their careers. Join a rapidly growing firm that values work-life balance and offers generous benefits, including unlimited annual leave and a flexible working environment.

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.
• Experience in business development and client interactions.

Responsibilities

• Lead ecology consultancy projects across various regions.
• Conduct ecological assessments and prepare technical reports.
• Mentor junior team members and maintain high standards.

Skills

Ecological Expertise

Client-facing Experience

GIS (QGIS or ArcGIS)

Education

Degree in Ecology or Related Field

Membership of CIEEM

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

£43,000 - £55,000, depending on experience
Paid professional memberships
Unlimited internal and external CPD/training budget
Bonus scheme
Generous pension scheme
Unlimited annual leave
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.

In accordance with GDPR, by applying for this position you give us your consent to process your data in-line with our Privacy and Data Protection Policies which can be read on the privacy policy page on our website.

Referral

Did you know we run a referral scheme? We pay a £1000 referral bonus if you introduce us to anyone who we then successfully place in a new job role. Just send us their information and we'll do the rest. Terms: A candidate is deemed to have been successfully placed once they have started a new job as a result of an introduction made by Hunter Dunning and when they've successfully completed the probation period.