Senior Ecologist

Penguin Recruitment Ltd; Cirencester; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An established environmental consultancy near Cirencester is seeking a Senior Ecologist to lead ecological projects and mentor junior team members. This role offers a supportive culture and opportunities for professional growth while working on diverse projects across the UK. Applicants should have significant consultancy experience and a relevant degree in ecology. Benefits include a 5% employer pension contribution, annual bonus scheme, private health insurance, and flexible working options.

Benefits

Annual profit-share bonus scheme

5% employer pension contribution

Life assurance cover

Private health insurance

Employee Assistance Programme

30 days annual leave

Extra day off for birthday

Flexible Time Off in Lieu policy

Qualifications

• Significant consultancy experience is essential.
• Full membership of CIEEM or eligibility required.
• Protected species licenses (especially for bats) are advantageous.
• Experience managing complex projects and delivering to deadlines needed.
• A full UK driving licence is essential.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage ecological inputs on various projects.
• Provide expert advice on ecological issues and legislation.
• Oversee and mentor junior ecologists.
• Conduct and review ecological surveys.
• Produce and quality check technical reports.
• Assist in business development through client management.

Skills

Project management

Team leadership

Ecological assessments

Client relationship management

Communication skills

Education

Degree in ecology or related discipline

Job description

Senior Ecologist

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Senior Ecologist to join a respected multidisciplinary environmental consultancy based near Cirencester. This established and forward-thinking team is looking for someone with a strong background in ecology, project management, and team leadership to support a wide variety of high-profile projects across the UK. The successful candidate will play a key role in shaping the ecological offering in the South West, working on projects ranging from major infrastructure and residential developments to renewable energy and conservation initiatives. This role offers the chance to collaborate with talented professionals across ecology, landscape, heritage, and planning, in a dynamic and supportive environment.

The company offers an excellent benefits package including; 5% employer pension contribution

• Annual profit-share bonus scheme

• 5% employer pension contribution

• Life assurance cover

• Private health insurance

• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) providing mental health, legal, and emotional support

• 30 days annual leave (plus bank holidays)

• An additional day off for your birthday

• Flexible Time Off in Lieu (TOIL) policy to accommodate peak workloads and travel

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage ecological inputs on a range of projects, from initial site assessments through to mitigation design and reporting.

• Provide expert advice to clients and project teams on ecological issues, legislation, and best practice.

• Oversee and mentor junior ecologists, supporting their professional development and ensuring high technical standards.

• Undertake and review ecological surveys, including habitat assessments and protected species work.

• Produce and quality check technical reports such as EcIA, HRA, and EPS licence applications.

• Support business development through client relationship management and the preparation of proposals and tenders.

You will ideally have:

• Significant consultancy experience and a relevant degree in ecology or a related discipline.

• Full membership of CIEEM (or eligibility).

• Protected species licences (particularly for bats, GCN or dormice) would be advantageous.

• Demonstrable experience managing complex projects and delivering to deadlines.

• Strong communication skills and a collaborative approach.

• A full UK driving licence is essential.

This is a rare chance to join a company that values innovation, integrity, and sustainability, offering real scope for professional growth. With hybrid working options, excellent benefits, and a genuinely supportive culture, it’s an ideal move for an ecologist looking to take the next step in their career.

If you’re interested in this Senior Ecologist role, please send your CV to [e-mail] or feel free to call me for a confidential chat on 01792365106.