Senior Ecologist

Antal International Network; England; Hybrid; Confidential; Full time

Job summary

A growing ecological consultancy is seeking a Senior Ecologist to manage projects and deliver ecological assessments. This role offers a collaborative team environment and opportunities for professional development. Key responsibilities include leading surveys, managing projects, and producing technical reports. Ideal for ecologists passionate about the environment with strong communication skills and project management experience. Flexible and hybrid working arrangements are available, along with generous benefits including unlimited annual leave and a competitive salary.

Benefits

Unlimited annual leave

Generous pension

Paid professional memberships

No-limit training budget

Peer-nominated bonus scheme

Qualifications

• Survey license for at least one protected species required.
• Proficient in conducting ecological surveys and assessments.
• Experience in managing field teams and leading projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead ecological surveys and fieldwork efforts.
• Manage projects from inception to completion.
• Produce technical reports and assessments.

Skills

Passion for ecology and the environment

Proficiency in habitat surveys

Project management ability

Strong communication skills

Experience preparing EPSM licenses

Education

Degree in ecology or related discipline

Tools

GIS software (e.g. QGIS, ArcGIS)

Job description

Senior Ecologist
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 seekingto 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 meaningfulecological work across the UK. You'll be part of a company with clear strategic direction and a strong team ethos.