Senior Ecologist

Penguin Recruitment; Cambridge; Hybrid; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading ecological consultancy in the South West is seeking a Senior Ecologist to be part of their expanding team. The role involves leading field surveys, managing project delivery, and providing mentorship. Candidates should have at least 5 years’ experience and hold relevant licenses. The position offers a competitive salary, flexible working conditions, and numerous benefits including professional development opportunities.

Benefits

Flexible/hybrid working options

Company vehicle or mileage allowance

Generous holiday entitlement

Professional memberships paid

Company pension scheme

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years' experience in ecological consultancy.
• Bat survey licence from Natural England (Level 2 preferred).
• Strong project management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead field surveys focused on protected species.
• Produce technical reports and ecological management plans.
• Manage project delivery from inception to completion.

Skills

Ecological consultancy

Project management

Survey skills

Client liaison

Education

Bat survey licence

In-depth knowledge of UK wildlife legislation

Job description

Senior Ecologist
Location: Somerset, Devon & Cornwall
Salary: 30,000 - 40,000 per annum (negotiable, depending on experience)
Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent

An established ecological consultancy in the South West is currently seeking a Senior Ecologist to join its expanding team. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced ecological professional to work on a wide range of projects across Somerset, Devon, and Cornwall.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead field surveys with a focus on protected species, particularly bat surveys and mitigation strategies
• Produce technical reports, licence applications, and ecological management plans to a high standard
• Manage and oversee project delivery from inception to completion
• Provide mentoring and support to junior team members
• Liaise confidently with clients, local authorities, and stakeholders
• Travel regularly to sites across the South West region

Requirements:

• Minimum 5 years' experience in ecological consultancy
• Bat survey licence from Natural England (Level 2 preferred)
• In-depth knowledge of UK wildlife legislation, planning policy, and species licensing
• Strong project management skills with the ability to produce comprehensive ecological reports
• Full UK driving licence is essential
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a collaborative team
• A proactive, organised, and professional approach to work

Benefits:

• Competitive salary of 30,000 - 40,000 (DOE)
• Flexible/hybrid working options (including home-based setup)
• Company vehicle or mileage allowance
• Generous holiday entitlement and flexible working hours
• Professional memberships paid and access to CPD opportunities
• Supportive and inclusive team environment
• Company pension scheme and wellbeing initiatives
• Opportunity to shape your role and contribute to business growth

If you're a driven and experienced ecologist ready to progress your career, this role offers the autonomy, flexibility, and variety to thrive.

How to Apply:

Send your CV to Joe at (url removed) or call (phone number removed) for a confidential discussion.

For more ecological roles, visit our website.

Penguin Recruitment is operating as a Recruitment Agency on behalf of our client for this permanent vacancy.