Principal Ecologist

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

Job summary

A growing independent consultancy in Oxford is seeking a Principal Ecologist to lead ecology consultancy projects across the South and Midlands. The role involves managing projects from inception to completion, conducting ecological assessments, and mentoring junior staff. Ideal candidates will have expertise in key ecological areas, client-facing experience, and a relevant degree. The position offers a salary of £43,000 – £55,000, flexible working hours, and generous benefits.

Benefits

Paid professional memberships

Unlimited annual leave

Flexible working hours

Generous pension scheme

Bonus scheme

Qualifications

• Membership of CIEEM or working towards membership.
• Experience in business development.

Responsibilities

• Lead and deliver ecology consultancy projects.
• Carry out Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs) and assessments.
• Undertake protected species surveys.

Skills

Specialist expertise in key ecological areas

Client-facing experience

GIS experience (QGIS or ArcGIS)

Education

Degree in ecology or related field

Job description

Principal Ecologist Job in Oxford

New 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

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

Required Skills & Experience

• Specialist expertise in one or more key ecological areas
• Client-facing experience and involvement in business development
• Degree or equivalent in ecology or a related field
• Membership of CIEEM (or working towards membership)
• 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.