Principal Ecologist

Bennett and Game Recruitment LTD; Salford; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

An environmental consultancy based in Manchester is seeking a Senior Ecologist to lead ecology projects, mentor juniors, and support the team's growth. The ideal candidate will have 3-5 years of consultancy experience, a degree in Ecology, and be a Full Member of CIEEM. This role offers a salary of £45,000 - £50,000, hybrid working, a strong emphasis on team collaboration, and opportunities for progression.

Benefits

24 days holiday (plus bank holidays)

5% employer pension contribution

Paid professional subscription

Cycle to Work Scheme

Eyecare scheme

Volunteering day per year

Collaborative team culture

Qualifications

• Minimum 3-5 years' consultancy experience in ecology.
• Full Member of CIEEM is essential.
• Deep understanding of UK/EC wildlife legislation.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage multiple ecology projects.
• Conduct site-based habitat and protected species surveys.
• Mentor junior ecologists and support team development.

Skills

Project management skills

Strong written communication

Strong verbal communication

Technical report writing

Education

Degree in Ecology or Environmental Science

Job description

Bennett and Game are representing a leading Manchester-based environmental consultancy currently seeking a Senior Ecologist to join their expanding team. With a current headcount of 25 and a turnover on track to grow from £2 million to £3 million in the next 12 months, the business is in a strong phase of strategic growth underpinned by a varied, design-led project pipeline. This is an opportunity to work with purpose, delivering practical, sustainable solutions that help clients balance development with meaningful ecological value.

Our client operates across ecology, arboriculture, and green infrastructure, supporting projects nationwide in the residential, commercial, education, and infrastructure sectors. The role will see you take a lead on project delivery, mentor junior team members, and help shape the future of the ecology discipline during this exciting growth phase. The business fosters a collaborative, low‑hierarchy culture, with genuine opportunities for tailored career progression and innovation at every level.

Principal Ecologist Salary & Benefits

• Salary range: £45,000 - £50,000, dependent on experience and licensing
• 24 days holiday (plus bank holidays), rising to 30 with long service
• Hybrid working – flexible arrangements dependent on project demands
• 5% employer pension contribution
• Paid professional subscription (1 per year)
• Access to company fleet vehicles for site travel
• Cycle to Work Scheme and Techscheme
• Eyecare scheme
• Season ticket cash advance available
• 1 volunteering day per year
• Regular staff events and a collaborative, low‑hierarchy team culture

Principal Ecologist Job Overview

• Lead and manage multiple ecology projects from inception through to final delivery
• Conduct site‑based habitat and protected species surveys, with particular emphasis on bats, GCN, and Phase 1/UKHab
• Take ownership of technical report writing, EcIA delivery, EPS licensing, and biodiversity net gain assessments
• Mentor and support junior ecologists, offering guidance, technical checks, and development planning
• Act as point of contact for clients, consultants, and planning authorities
• Oversee health and safety compliance, fieldwork logistics, and seasonal team resourcing
• Play a key role in team development and supporting the wider ecology business plan

Principal Ecologist Job Requirements

• Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or any related subject
• Minimum 3‑5 years' consultancy experience
• Full Member of CIEEM (essential)
• Deep understanding of UK/EC wildlife legislation and planning policy
• Demonstrable project management skills, including commercial oversight and delivery against deadlines
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Experience preparing EPSL documents, BNG assessments, and EcIAs
• Licences for bats and/or great crested newts (desirable)
• HRA, GIS capability, or FISC Level 3+ qualifications are advantageous
• Full UK driving licence

If you're looking to take the next step in your ecology career with a purpose‑driven consultancy that values both people and the planet, we'd love to hear from you.