Senior Ecologist

BWB Consulting Ltd; Leeds; Hybrid; GBP 42,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

25 days' holiday (rising to 28)

Health & Wellbeing initiatives

Fully funded training and Chartership support

Hybrid working

Training support

Job summary

A leading ecological consultancy firm in Leeds is searching for an experienced Senior Ecologist to provide innovative ecological solutions. The ideal candidate will have over 5 years of ecological consultancy experience, comprehensive knowledge of biodiversity net gain, and strong mentoring skills. This role includes managing projects, leading ecological services, and collaborating across teams. The company offers competitive rewards, a flexible hybrid work model, and a commitment to professional development.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in ecological consultancy.
• Knowledge of biodiversity net gain process.
• Experience with protected species licences.
• Proven project delivery on time and within budget.
• Experience with regulatory bodies and BREEAM Ecology assessments.
• Strong mentoring skills to guide the team.
• Bat licence (Class 1 or 2) desirable; support progression to Class 2.
• Ornithological experience is a bonus.

Responsibilities

• Lead ecological services across all development stages.
• Complete biodiversity net gain metrics and advise clients.
• Manage and deliver projects sourced directly by the company.
• Collaborate across teams for high-profile projects.
• Mentor early-career ecologists.
• Drive forward ecological innovation while balancing client needs.

Skills

Ecological consultancy experience

Biodiversity net gain knowledge

Ecological surveying and reporting expertise

Mentoring skills

BREEAM Ecology Assessments experience

Education

CIEEM Membership

Job description

Overview

Join to apply for the Senior Ecologist role at BWB Consulting Ltd.

At BWB Consulting, we’re more than engineers – we’re trusted partners, innovators, and problem-solvers. Recognised as ACE Best Large Consultancy of the Year 2022 and proudly accredited with Investors in People and Investors in Wellbeing, our award-winning culture is built on excellence, collaboration, and sustainability. We push boundaries to deliver exceptional results for our clients – and create meaningful impact for the communities we serve.

What You’ll Be Doing

As an experienced ecologist, you’ll be a key player in delivering innovative, practical, and cost-effective ecological solutions that make a real impact. Your role will include:

• Leading ecological services across all stages of the development cycle.
• Completing biodiversity net gain metrics and advising clients on best practices.
• Managing and delivering projects sourced directly by BWB.
• Collaborating across teams to input into high-profile projects.
• Mentoring and developing early-career ecologists, sharing your expertise.
• Driving forward ecological innovation while balancing client needs.

This is your opportunity to shape extraordinary places that truly make a difference.

What You’ll Bring

We’re looking for someone who’s passionate about ecology, experienced, and ready to take on exciting challenges. You’ll need:

• At least 5 years in ecological consultancy.
• Comprehensive knowledge of the biodiversity net gain process.
• Expertise in ecological surveying and reporting, plus protected species licences.
• A proven track record in delivering projects on time and within budget.
• Experience with BREEAM Ecology Assessments and working with regulatory bodies.
• Strong mentoring skills to guide and inspire the team.
• Class 1 or 2 Bat Survey Licence is desirable; we’re happy to support your progress to Class 2.
• Ornithological experience? That’s a bonus!

Plus, you’ll be a CIEEM Member with a full driving licence, ready to hit the ground running.

What we offer

• Inclusive Culture – Bring your authentic self to work every day.
• Competitive Rewards – Salary, 5% pension match, life assurance, and long-service recognition.
• Time Off & Flexibility – 25 days’ holiday (rising to 28), option to buy more, hybrid working (3 days office), and flexible core hours.
• Health & Wellbeing – Westfield Health, healthcare cash plan, Cycle to Work scheme, wellbeing initiatives.
• Growth & Development – Fully funded training, Chartership support, and paid professional subscriptions.
• Community & Connection – Volunteering days, social events, discounts, and savings.

Accessibility & Adjustments

We’re proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and a signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant, building an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.

We want every candidate to feel comfortable and supported during the recruitment process. If you require any adjustments at interview stage, please let us know – we’ll be happy to make them.