Senior Ecologist

Agricultural Recruitment Specialists; Leeds; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading environmental consultancy in Leeds is seeking a Senior Ecologist to manage diverse ecological projects across the UK. You will lead technical projects, mentor junior ecologists, and provide expert advice on ecological assessments. The ideal candidate has at least four years' experience and a degree in a relevant discipline. This role includes flexible working arrangements and a competitive salary package.

Benefits

Flexible working arrangements

Paid professional memberships

Employer pension contributions

Generous annual leave

Performance related bonus

Company social events

Qualifications

• Minimum of four years’ experience in ecological consultancy.
• Strong understanding of UK planning and ecological legislation.
• Experience with Protected Species and Habitat Surveys.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage ecological projects to high technical standards.
• Design and deliver a range of protected species and habitat surveys.
• Mentor and support junior ecologists.

Skills

Project management

Communication skills

Ecological assessment writing

GIS software proficiency

Flexibility in working hours

Education

Degree in Ecology or related environmental discipline

CIEEM Associate membership (Full Member preferred)

Tools

QGIS/QField

Job description

Senior Ecologist – Leeds - £45,000 + Flexible Working Available + Benefits

The Job:

An opportunity has arisen for an experienced Senior Ecologist to join a well established and growing environmental consultancy. Based primarily in Leeds, with consideration for applicants in the Bolsover area, this role offers the chance to lead a diverse range of ecological projects across the UK.

The successful candidate will independently manage projects from inception to completion, providing technical leadership, mentoring junior team members, and contributing to the continued growth and success of the business. You will play a key role in delivering high-quality ecological assessments and providing expert advice to clients and stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage ecological projects to high technical standards, on time and within budget
• Design and deliver a range of protected species and habitat surveys
• Prepare and review PEAs, EcIAs, BNG Assessments, HRAs, and ES chapters
• Produce tenders, proposals, and costings for new work
• Advise on ecological legislation, planning policy, and mitigation strategies
• Liaise with clients, statutory bodies, and project stakeholders
• Mentor and support junior ecologists
• Work flexibly, including occasional evenings during survey season (April–September)

The Company:

A dynamic and forward thinking ecological consultancy working across a wide range of habitats and sectors throughout the UK. The business is known for its collaborative culture, technical excellence and commitment to employee wellbeing. Staff are encouraged to pursue professional interests, supported by structured CPD, training, and flexible working arrangements.

The Candidate:

• Minimum of four years’ experience in ecological consultancy
• Degree in Ecology or a related environmental discipline (or equivalent)
• CIEEM Associate membership (Full Member preferred)
• Proven experience managing ecological projects from start to finish
• Strong understanding of UK planning and ecological legislation
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Experience writing PEAs, EcIAs, BNG assessments, and ES chapters
• Skilled in protected species and/or habitat surveys, with one or more survey licences (e.g., bats, badgers, botany, ornithology)
• Competent user of GIS software (e.g., QGIS/QField)
• Full, clean UK driving licence and access to own vehicle
• Flexible approach to working hours during survey season

Desirable:

• Specialist knowledge in bats (including tree climbing), badgers, botany, or ornithology
• Experience mentoring junior staff
• Holder of or working towards a mitigation licence (e.g., BMCL)

The Package:

• Salary £30,000 – £45,000 per annum DOE
• Flexible working arrangements to support work life balance
• Paid overtime or TOIL for out of hours survey work
• Ongoing CPD and professional development supportPaid professional memberships and licence renewals
• Employer pension contributions
• Generous annual leave, with additional leave for long service
• Discretionary performance related bonus
• Regular company funded social events and team activities
• Office closure during the Christmas period

Please email your CV to Liam Davis, Senior Delivery Recruitment Consultant, [e-mail].