Senior Ecologist

Assurity Consulting Ltd; Bath; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading ecological consultancy in Bath seeks a Senior Ecologist to lead ecological assessments and project management. The ideal candidate enjoys a senior role, with the responsibility of delivering high-quality ecological advice across various development and conservation projects. This position offers competitive compensation with numerous benefits including flexible working hours and support for training.

Benefits

25 days leave (pro rata)

Discretionary 9-day fortnight

Staff support/mentoring

Flexible working hours

Training opportunities

Contributory pension scheme

Qualifications

• Minimum 4 years’ experience as an ecologist, including tasks outlined.
• Ability to manage your own time and workload independently.
• Hold a UK driving licence.

Responsibilities

• Lead UK Habitat surveys and condition assessments.
• Manage a range of projects and client communications.
• Prepare survey reports, licence applications, and environmental documents.

Skills

Fieldwork skills

Strong species ID skills

Excellent communication

Project management

Problem-solving

Education

Relevant degree or equivalent experience

Associate membership of CIEEM

Job description

Senior Ecologist

Department: Field Team

Employment Type: Permanent - Full Time

Location: Bath

Reporting To: Steph Green

Compensation: £32,000 - £39,000 / year

Description

Ethos Environmental Planning Ltd is part of the Celnor Group a network of specialist environmental, testing, inspection, and risk-management businesses committed to protecting people, places, and the planet. Being part of Celnor provides access to shared tools, development pathways, and group-wide opportunities, while retaining the expertise and identity that makes Ethos a trusted ecological consultancy.

Ethos is an environmental planning consultancy based in the world heritage city of Bath and working across the UK. We are a multi-disciplinary consultancy providing decision-making in relation to planning with a focus on ecology, green space, and biodiversity net gain.

We are seeking an experienced Senior Ecologist to lead ecological assessments, manage projects, and support the delivery of high-quality ecological advice across a wide range of development and conservation projects. The role will be based at our Bath office.

Key Responsibilities

Surveys & Fieldwork

• Lead UK Habitat surveys and condition assessments
• Lead protected species surveys (e.g., great crested newts, bats, reptiles, dormouse, birds)
• Deliver ecological supervision including watching briefs, toolbox talks, and Ecological Clerk of Works duties

Ecological Assessment

• GIS mapping of habitats and ecological features
• Conduct Biodiversity Net Gain assessments using DEFRA Metric and other similar metrics (including BREEAM, Habitat Regulations)
• Prepare survey reports, Environmental Statement chapters, licence applications, management plans, mitigation strategies, and other documents
• Analyse and interpret ecological data in detail
• Assess development impacts and develop mitigation recommendations and monitoring schemes
• Apply current ecological policy, legislation, and guidance
• Undertake quality assurance of reports

Project Management

• Manage a range of projects, including more complex survey programmes
• Lead communication with clients and stakeholders
• Attend project meetings and provide ecological advice
• Consult with statutory and non-statutory consultees
• Prepare quotes, invoices, and manage project budgets

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise

• Minimum 4 years’ experience as an ecologist (including experience undertaking most of the aforementioned tasks)
• Relevant degree or equivalent experience
• Associate membership of CIEEM (or equivalent)
• Strong fieldwork and species ID skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to lead and work collaboratively within teams
• Enthusiasm and initiative for learning
• Ability to manage your own time and workload independently
• Hold a UK driving licence

Why join us?

• Lead projects and practice in a senior, influential role
• Work as part of a growing and respected consultancy
• Access to group-wide learning programmes, career development, and networks
• Contribute to projects that make a real environmental impact

Benefits

• 25 days leave (pro rata)
• Ethos offers a discretionary 9-day fortnight where staff receive every other Friday off
• Staff support/mentoring
• Flexible working hours are available, including working at home, to be agreed with the Managing Director
• TOIL and overtime
• We will provide a minimum of 4 days formal training per year (minimum 2 days external)
• Work related expenses paid, including mileage at 0.45p
• Statutory Sick Pay and Maternity leave will apply in line with the most recent government guidance
• A contributory pension scheme is available to employees where up to 4% of salary can be paid in by employees which is matched as a salary addition by the employer