Principal Ecologist: Lead, Mentor & Shape Ecology (Hybrid)

MacStaff; Liss; Hybrid; GBP 47,000 - 57,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits package

Hybrid working

Job summary

MacStaff is seeking a Principal Ecologist / Principal Ecological Consultant for a hybrid role based in the UK, with options across Glasgow/Edinburgh or other locations. You will lead complex ecological projects, mentor junior staff and drive technical standards while delivering high-quality client deliverables.

The role combines technical ecology with leadership and commercial responsibility, offering strong development opportunities within a growing environmental group.

Qualifications

• Requires degree in ecology or related field and full CIEEM membership.
• Experience in UK ecological consultancy and leadership of projects.
• Proven ability to mentor ecologists and manage client relationships.

Responsibilities

• Lead complex ecological projects from inception to completion.
• Manage programmes, budgets, resources, forecasting and performance.
• Provide expert advice on ecological assessment, mitigation, and land management.
• Lead and review ecological surveys, assessments and monitoring programmes.
• Produce and review high-quality technical reports and client deliverables.
• Support Biodiversity Net Gain assessments and EcIA/HRA work.
• Develop Species Protection Plans and mitigation strategies.

Skills

Strong project management

Client-facing and report writing

Mentoring ecologists

Education

Degree in Ecology / Environmental Science / Biological Sciences

CIEEM membership (full)

Tools

QGIS

ArcGIS Pro

Job description

MacStaff is seeking a Principal Ecologist / Principal Ecological Consultant for a hybrid role based in the UK, with options across Glasgow/Edinburgh or other locations. You will lead complex ecological projects, mentor junior staff and drive technical standards while delivering high-quality client deliverables.

The role combines technical ecology with leadership and commercial responsibility, offering strong development opportunities within a growing environmental group.