Principal Ecologist: Lead Complex Projects & Mentoring

Southern Ecological Solutions (SES); West Midlands; Hybrid; GBP 35,000 - 58,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Birthday Leave

Generous Holiday Allowance

Life Assurance

Hybrid working

Private Medical Insurance

Flexible Benefits Programme

Targeted CPD plan

Professional membership

Job summary

Southern Ecological Solutions is seeking a Senior/Principal Ecologist to lead complex ecological projects and act as a technical authority within the team. Based in the South East of England with autonomy over project direction, you will mentor staff and drive business growth while delivering high-quality reports and advice to clients.

As part of the SES and RSK Group, you’ll contribute to bids, policy development, and project delivery across the Midlands region, enjoying a supportive,

Qualifications

• A Degree (or equivalent) in ecology or a related discipline.
• One or more protected species licences (e.g. bats, GCN).
• Extensive experience within a professional ecological consultancy.
• Strong track record of delivering and reviewing complex technical reports.
• In-depth knowledge of UK wildlife legislation, planning policy and guidance.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage complex ecological projects, including large-scale developments and infrastructure schemes.
• Act as technical lead and reviewer for PEAs, EcIAs, HRAs, and BNG assessments.
• Provide expert advice on ecology, legislation and planning policy (NPPF and local policy).
• Mentor ecologists at all levels and foster technical excellence.
• Oversee survey design, seasonal programming and risk management.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships and contribute to bids and fee proposals.
• Support business development and represent SES at meetings and forums.
• Ensure quality, compliance and best practice across Midlands projects.

Skills

Degree in ecology

Protected species licences

Ecology consultancy experience

Technical report delivery

UK wildlife legislation knowledge

Education

Degree in ecology

Job description

Southern Ecological Solutions is seeking a Senior/Principal Ecologist to lead complex ecological projects and act as a technical authority within the team. Based in the South East of England with autonomy over project direction, you will mentor staff and drive business growth while delivering high-quality reports and advice to clients.

As part of the SES and RSK Group, you’ll contribute to bids, policy development, and project delivery across the Midlands region, enjoying a supportive,