Principal Ecologist (Oxford)

JR United Kingdom; Banbury; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in ecological consultancy seeks a Principal Ecologist to manage a team and drive project delivery across the UK. This role suits ambitious candidates looking to diversify their portfolio and contribute to a dynamic, innovative workplace. Offers competitive salary, professional development, and flexible working arrangements.

Benefits

Apple computer and iPhone

Paid professional memberships

In-house and external training budgets

Bonus scheme

Unlimited annual leave

Flexible working arrangements

Qualifications

• Genuine enthusiasm for ecology and the environment.
• Full or chartered membership of CIEEM is preferable.
• Experience with European Protected Species Mitigation licences.

Responsibilities

• Manage a team and ensure quality and performance.
• Conduct habitat and protected species surveys.
• Design and implement mitigation strategies.

Skills

Management of junior team members

Survey licence for protected species

Experience with habitat surveys

Technical review of ecological reports

Strong communication skills

Knowledge of EcIA or BREEAM

Specialist skills in ecological areas

Education

Degree in ecology or related discipline

Tools

QGIS

ArcGIS

Job description

Ecology by Design are seeking a Principal Ecologist to join our team.

Established in January 2015, Ecology by Design has experienced consistent growth. We aim to employ the best talent, rewarding hard work and dedication. Our services include ecology consultancy for a diverse client base, emphasizing technical excellence and innovative, pragmatic, client-friendly solutions. This role is ideal for an ambitious senior consultant seeking growth opportunities or an experienced principal ecologist looking to diversify their portfolio and contribute to a thriving young consultancy.

We are a dynamic young business seeking individuals eager to push ecological boundaries, strive for excellence, and be part of a growing company. The role involves managing a team and maintaining our quality, culture, and performance. Due to the project-based nature of our work, some travel and overnight stays are required. We prioritize work-life balance, limiting nights away and working hours to ensure personal and professional objectives are met.

Our projects are primarily across the UK, mainly in the Home Counties, South, and Midlands.

Essential Skills and Experience

• Genuine enthusiasm for ecology and the environment
• Experience in managing or guiding junior ecology team members
• Survey licence for protected species (e.g., bats, newts) or expertise in other taxa (e.g., botany, invertebrates)
• Experience with habitat and protected species surveys
• Design and implementation of mitigation strategies
• Technical review of ecological reports
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong communication skills
• Full or chartered membership of CIEEM (or eligibility)
• Valid driving licence and access to a car
• Experience or willingness to learn sales and business development
• Knowledge of EcIA, BREEAM, or biodiversity net gain
• Specialist skills in ecological areas (e.g., bats)
• Degree in ecology or related discipline
• Proficiency with QGIS or ArcGIS (training provided)
• Experience with European Protected Species Mitigation licences
• Possession of specialist mitigation class licences (e.g., Bat Low Impact License)

Working for Ecology by Design

We offer:

• Apple computer and iPhone
• Paid professional memberships
• In-house and external training budgets
• Bonus scheme
• Unlimited annual leave and flexible working arrangements

Many additional perks are added regularly, reflecting our vibrant and innovative company culture.

The candidate should reside within commuting distance of Chalgrove, Oxfordshire, or be willing to relocate. We support a flexible work arrangement, including remote work and office presence.

Joining us offers excellent opportunities for growth within a strategic SME.

Interested?

Please send your CV and cover letter, including your location and salary expectations, to [emailprotected].

This advertisement is open-ended; we may close applications at any time. We aim to fill the position by Summer 2025 but remain open to standout candidates year-round.

Watch our team in action: https://www.ecologybydesign.co.uk/careers