Principal Ecologist: Lead Complex UK Projects (Hybrid)

Enims Ltd; United Kingdom; Hybrid; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Wellbeing days

Enhanced annual leave

Company pool car

Job summary

Enims is seeking a Principal Ecologist to lead high‑quality ecological consultancy across the UK, delivering complex projects and providing technical direction. You will manage client relationships, sign off reports and mentor junior staff, helping grow the business and maintain technical excellence.

The role supports flexible remote/hybrid working, with a strong team culture and emphasis on sustainable outcomes for clients and the environment.

Qualifications

• Hold a degree in Ecology, Environmental Science or a related discipline.
• Substantial consultancy experience within the ecology sector.
• Demonstrate strong knowledge of UK wildlife legislation, planning policy and ecological best practice.
• Experience delivering EcIA, BNG assessments, protected species work and habitat surveys.
• Be capable of managing projects, budgets and client relationships.
• Possess excellent report writing, communication and organisational skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of complex ecological projects, providing strategic direction from tender stage through to completion.
• Act as a technical lead on EcIA, Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), Habitat Regulations Assessments (HRA) and protected species projects.
• Manage project teams, programmes, budgets and resources to ensure successful delivery and commercial performance.
• Review and sign off technical reports, ensuring the highest standards of quality and compliance.
• Provide expert ecological advice to clients, planning authorities and multidisciplinary teams.
• Develop and maintain strong client relationships, identifying opportunities for repeat business.
• Support business growth through proposal writing, fee preparation and framework submissions.
• Mentor and support ecologists across all grades, helping to develop technical capability and professional growth.
• Contribute to the development of company standards, technical guidance and best practice processes.
• Support habitat creation, restoration and long-term management projects.
• Maintain knowledge of legislation and policy, translating into client-focused solutions.
• Attend site visits, client meetings and workshops.
• Represent Enims professionally within the sector.
• Complete mandatory training and contribute to continuous improvement.

Skills

Ecology expertise

Project management

Client liaison

Technical report writing

Education

Degree in Ecology

Job description

Enims is seeking a Principal Ecologist to lead high‑quality ecological consultancy across the UK, delivering complex projects and providing technical direction. You will manage client relationships, sign off reports and mentor junior staff, helping grow the business and maintain technical excellence.

The role supports flexible remote/hybrid working, with a strong team culture and emphasis on sustainable outcomes for clients and the environment.