Senior Ecologist

ZipRecruiter; England; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A dynamic ecological consultancy in the UK seeks a Senior Ecologist to lead projects and surveys independently. The role includes delivering ecological services like habitat assessments and managing diverse projects, all within a supportive team environment. Candidates should have a degree in ecology and hold a survey licence for protected species. Attractive package with competitive salary, unlimited leave, and opportunities for rapid advancement in a friendly workplace.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Generous pension

Unlimited annual leave

Flexible working culture

Company-provided Apple Mac and iPhone

Paid professional memberships

No-limit training budget

Peer-nominated bonus scheme

Opportunities for rapid career progression

Friendly and inclusive team environment

Qualifications

• Genuine passion for ecology and the environment.
• Proficiency in habitat (Phase 1/UK Habitats) and protected species surveys.
• Survey licence for at least one protected species required.
• Proven ability to manage field teams and lead project delivery.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential.
• Comfortable working independently or as part of a team.
• Experience preparing and securing EPSM licenses is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Leading ecological surveys and fieldwork.
• Managing projects from inception to completion.
• Producing high-quality technical reports and assessments.
• Designing and costing surveys and mitigation strategies.
• Supporting and mentoring junior team members.
• Liaising with clients and stakeholders.

Skills

Passion for ecology and environment

Proficiency in habitat and protected species surveys

Survey licence for at least one protected species

Ability to manage field teams

Strong written and verbal communication

Experience preparing EPSM licenses

Full UK driving licence

Education

Degree in ecology or related discipline

Tools

GIS software (e.g. QGIS, ArcGIS)

Job description

Job Description

A growing and dynamic ecological consultancy is looking to recruit a Senior Ecologist to join its expanding team.

The Role

This position is ideal for an experienced ecologist looking to take the next step in their career.

The successful candidate will be empowered to manage projects independently - from quoting through to invoicing - while being supported by a collaborative and friendly team environment.

The role involves delivering a broad range of services including Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, Biodiversity Net Gain assessments, protected species surveys, and Ecological Impact Assessments. While the position is well-suited to ecologists seeking to broaden their consultancy skills, specialists are equally encouraged to apply and bring unique expertise to the team.

Some travel and overnight stays will be required due to the project-based nature of the work. However, the company takes a proactive approach to work-life balance, placing limits on nights away and unsocial working hours.

Most projects are based across the Midlands, South, and Home Counties, with occasional work elsewhere in the UK.

Key Responsibilities

• Leading ecological surveys and fieldwork

• Managing projects from inception to completion

• Producing high-quality technical reports and assessments

• Designing and costing surveys and mitigation strategies

• Supporting and mentoring junior team members • Liaising with clients and stakeholders

• Contributing to the development of business processes and client relationships

Essential Skills & Experience

• Genuine passion for ecology and the environment

• Proficiency in habitat (Phase 1/UK Habitats) and protected species surveys

• Survey licence for at least one protected species (e.g. bats, dormouse, great crested newts, reptiles, barn owl)

• Proven ability to manage field teams and lead project delivery

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Comfortable working independently or as part of a team, including during occasional unsociable hours

• Experience preparing and securing EPSM licences

• Ability to scope, design and quote for ecological work

• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle

Desirable Skills

• Advanced expertise in a specialist taxonomic group (e.g. bats, dormouse, herpetofauna)

• Membership (or eligibility) of CIEEM

• Degree in ecology or related discipline

• Experience using GIS software (e.g. QGIS, ArcGIS)

• Line management or mentoring experience

• Business development or client relationship management experience

• Experience holding and working under EPSM licences

What’s on Offer

• Competitive salary and generous pension

• Unlimited annual leave and flexible working culture

• Company-provided Apple Mac and iPhone

• Paid professional memberships

• No-limit training budget (in-house and external)

• Peer-nominated bonus scheme

• Opportunities for rapid career progression in a growing business

• A friendly and inclusive team environment with new perks regularly introduced

Location

Candidates should live within commuting distance of Oxfordshire or Gloucestershire or be willing to relocate.

Flexible and hybrid working arrangements are available.

Why Join?

This is a unique opportunity to work in a progressive, award-nominated consultancy that empowers its team to develop professionally while contributing to meaningful ecological work across the UK. You'll be part of a company with clear strategic direction and a strong team ethos.