Senior Ecologist

Penguin Recruitment; Cambridgeshire and Peterborough; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An ecological consultancy in the East of England seeks an experienced Ecologist to join their team. You will lead protected species surveys, produce vital ecological reports, and develop mitigation strategies. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in ecological assessments and possess excellent communication skills. The organization values work-life balance and offers flexible working options, along with a comprehensive benefits package including annual leave, pension, and health benefits.

Benefits

24-25 days annual leave plus bank holidays

Option to buy up to 5 extra holiday days

Company pension scheme

Share Incentive Scheme

Life assurance

Group disability cover

Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

Health screening and dental care options

Cycle to Work scheme

Access to discounts via BenefitHub

Qualifications

• Proven experience in designing and delivering ecological surveys.
• Experience in protected species licensing and ECoW responsibilities.
• A willingness to travel throughout the region.

Responsibilities

• Lead and design protected species surveys for developments.
• Produce technical reports for ecological assessments.
• Develop strategies for mitigation and licensing.

Skills

Proficiency in UK Habitat Classification

Experience in ecological surveys

Protected species licensing

Strong communication skills

Time management skills

Job description

Ecologist

Cambridge

An opportunity is available for an experienced ecologist to join a growing team in the East of England. The successful candidate will play a key role in delivering ecological services for major development projects, from fieldwork through to planning support and mitigation. The company values work-life balance and offers flexible working arrangements, including Time Off In Lieu (TOIL) for fieldwork.

Benefits

• 24-25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Option to buy up to 5 extra holiday days
• Company pension scheme
• Share Incentive Scheme
• Life assurance
• Group disability cover
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
• Health screening and dental care options
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Access to discounts via BenefitHub
• Car allowance (for applicable roles)

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and design a variety of protected species surveys for major infrastructure and development schemes in the East of England
• Produce technical reports including Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs), Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIAs), Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), Habitats Regulations Assessments (HRAs), Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) reports, Landscape and Ecological Management Plans (LEMPs), and Construction Environmental Management Plans (CEMPs)
• Conduct Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments, including baseline habitat surveys, habitat condition assessments, Biodiversity Metric calculations, and reporting for planning applications
• Develop and implement mitigation strategies, including obtaining protected species licences (e.g. for bats, great crested newts, dormice, badgers, and water voles)
• Assist in the preparation of tenders and fee proposals
• Provide mentoring and support to junior team members, encouraging professional development and hands‑on learning

The ideal candidate will have

• Proficiency in UK Habitat Classification and habitat condition assessments
• Proven experience in designing and delivering a wide range of ecological surveys and interpreting findings for planning and mitigation
• Experience in protected species licensing and Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) responsibilities
• A collaborative approach, with the ability to work independently when required
• Strong communication and time management skills
• A full UK driving licence with business insurance and a willingness to travel throughout the region (occasional overnight stays may be necessary)

Interested in this role? Apply today or feel free to ring Ashleigh Garner at Penguin Recruitment for a confidential chat.