Principal Ecologist

JR United Kingdom; Reading; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading ecological consultancy is seeking a Principal Ecologist to guide high-impact projects while ensuring ecological protection and compliance with UK wildlife legislation. This pivotal leadership role involves mentoring a dedicated team, directing project delivery, and developing client relationships in a dynamic regulatory environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 6-8 years’ experience in ecological consultancy.
• Demonstrable expertise in habitat and protected species survey work.
• Possession of protected species licenses preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic direction and technical leadership across ecological projects.
• Oversee complex habitat and protected species surveys.
• Manage and grow client relationships, contributing to business development.

Skills

Client management

Business development

Project leadership

Report writing

Education

Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or related discipline

Job description

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I’m on the lookout for an experienced and driven Principal Ecologist to lead the delivery of high-impact ecological consultancy services across a diverse range of projects. This is a key leadership role offering the opportunity to influence major planning and infrastructure developments, balancing ecological protection with sustainable growth.

As a Principal Ecologist, you'll bring a strategic approach to project delivery, lead complex ecological assessments, and guide clients through the evolving regulatory landscape, particularly around Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), protected species licensing, and ecological mitigation. You’ll play a pivotal role in mentoring the team, deepening client relationships, and driving technical excellence across the business.

Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic direction and technical leadership across a portfolio of ecological projects.
• Oversee complex habitat and protected species surveys, including Phase 1/UK Habitat Classification assessments.
• Author and review high-level technical reports (e.g., Ecological Impact Assessments, Biodiversity Net Gain reports, and Habitat Regulations Assessments).
• Lead on ecological input for planning applications, licensing, and stakeholder negotiations.
• Manage and grow client relationships, contributing to business development and long-term partnerships.
• Support the development and mentoring of junior and mid-level ecologists, fostering technical growth and team cohesion.
• Ensure compliance with relevant legislation and planning policy, championing best practice and innovation in ecological consultancy.

Requirements:

• Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related discipline.
• At least 6–8 years’ experience in ecological consultancy, with a strong portfolio of project leadership.
• Demonstrable expertise in habitat and protected species survey work.
• In-depth knowledge of UK wildlife legislation, planning policy, and mitigation design.
• Proven track record in client management and business development.
• Excellent report writing and quality assurance skills, aligned with CIEEM standards.
• Possession of protected species licenses (Bat and/or Great Crested Newt preferred).
• Full UK driving license.
• Full or eligible for Full membership of CIEEM.