Senior Ecologist

Allen & York Ltd; Banbury; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading ecological consultancy in North Oxfordshire is seeking a Senior Ecologist to lead and design terrestrial ecology surveys and produce technical reports. This role focuses on managing diverse projects while mentoring junior staff in a supportive, innovative environment. Candidates should have at least 3 years of consultancy experience, a solid understanding of UK ecological practices, and be ready to handle client interactions. This position offers an excellent opportunity for professional development within a respected team committed to sustainability.

Qualifications

• At least three years of experience in ecological consultancy or a closely related field.
• Solid understanding of UK habitats and ecological legislation.
• Experience writing high-quality technical reports.

Responsibilities

• Design and lead terrestrial ecology surveys.
• Produce clear, well-structured technical reports.
• Manage your own workload and build client relationships.

Skills

NVC training

MoRPh surveys

protected species licences

GIS skills

supporting junior staff

Education

Strong academic background in ecology

Job description

Senior Ecologist - Leading UK Consultancy | North Oxfordshire

An established and fast‑growing ecological consultancy is looking for a Senior Ecologist to join its respected terrestrial ecology team. This is a chance to work on a wide range of engaging and meaningful projects across the UK, including residential, commercial, infrastructure and renewable energy developments. You’ll be joining an organisation known for high‑quality ecological work, a collaborative culture and a strong commitment to professional integrity.

In this role, you’ll take responsibility for designing and leading terrestrial ecology surveys, carrying out site visits and producing clear, well‑structured technical reports such as PEARs, EcIAs, ES chapters and BNG assessments. You’ll manage your own workload of small, medium and larger projects, building effective relationships with clients and other stakeholders, and ensuring work is delivered to a consistently high standard. You’ll also provide support and guidance to junior ecologists, reviewing their work and helping them develop their skills. This is an ideal opportunity for an experienced ecologist who wants to take on greater responsibility, continue expanding their technical expertise and work towards Principal level over the coming years.

You will bring at least three years of experience in ecological consultancy or a closely related field, along with a strong academic background. A solid understanding of UK habitats, protected species survey methods, ecological legislation and best‑practice guidance is essential, as is experience writing high‑quality technical reports. You should be confident working directly with clients, able to stay organised in a fast‑paced environment and comfortable balancing fieldwork, reporting and project‑management responsibilities. CIEEM membership (or eligibility), a full UK driving licence and willingness to travel are required.

• NVC training
• MoRPh surveys
• protected species licences
• GIS skills
• previous responsibility for supporting junior staff

The consultancy offers a friendly, innovative and inclusive working environment where people genuinely enjoy what they do. You’ll be supported by an experienced team, encouraged to grow your skills and given the flexibility you need to balance work with life outside of it. The organisation places great importance on quality, integrity, fairness and positive thinking, and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds who want to make a real contribution to the natural environment.

If you’re a motivated ecologist looking for your next step within a progressive and well‑respected consultancy, this role offers an excellent opportunity to develop your career. To find out more or express interest confidentially, please get in touch.

About us: Allen & York have been matching purposeful people with purpose‑led organisations for 30 years. We partner with our clients and candidates on roles that build an understanding of climate change, promote sustainability and create inclusive and responsible organisations, working towards a sustainable world for us all. Committed to inclusiveness in the workplace, we aim to increase diversity across all areas and therefore welcome applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their ethnicity, race, gender, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, age, or whether or not they have a disability. Let’s help build a better world, together.