Senior Ecologist

Penguin Recruitment; Lewes; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A well-established environmental consultancy in the UK is seeking a Senior Ecologist to join its growing ecology team. You will lead ecological surveys, manage exciting projects, and support junior staff while contributing to biodiversity enhancement. The ideal candidate should have a relevant degree and proven consultancy experience. This role offers a competitive salary, flexible working, and a supportive culture focused on professional development.

Benefits

Private healthcare

Company pension scheme

Enhanced annual leave

Comprehensive training opportunities

Qualifications

• Degree in ecology, environmental science, or a related discipline.
• Proven consultancy experience delivering ecological projects.
• Strong understanding of UK wildlife legislation.

Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver ecological field surveys and assessments.
• Prepare high-quality technical reports and EcIA chapters.
• Provide expert ecological advice to clients and teams.
• Mentor and support junior ecologists.
• Manage project budgets and timelines.

Skills

Ecological field surveys

Technical report preparation

Expert ecological advice

Project management

Communication skills

Teamwork skills

Education

Degree in ecology or environmental science

Postgraduate qualification

Full or associate membership of CIEEM

Job description

A well-established environmental consultancy is seeking a Senior Ecologist to join its friendly and growing ecology team. With a reputation for technical excellence, pragmatic advice, and a people-focused culture, the company delivers innovative environmental solutions to clients across development, infrastructure, and regeneration sectors. The successful candidate will play a key role in leading ecological surveys and assessments, managing a range of exciting projects, and supporting junior team members – all while contributing to biodiversity enhancement and sustainable development across the UK.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, manage and deliver a variety of ecological field surveys, assessments, and mitigation strategies.
• Prepare high-quality technical reports, EcIA chapters, and biodiversity net gain assessments.
• Provide expert ecological advice to clients, project managers, and planning teams.
• Mentor and support junior ecologists and field staff.
• Manage project budgets, timelines, and stakeholder relationships.
• Contribute to business development, tenders, and proposals.

About You

A degree in ecology, environmental science, or a related discipline (a postgraduate qualification desirable).

Full or associate membership of CIEEM.

Proven consultancy experience delivering ecological projects from inception to completion.

Strong understanding of UK wildlife legislation, planning policy, and biodiversity net gain principles.

Protected species licences and experience with EPS mitigation projects are advantageous.

Excellent communication, project management, and teamwork skills.

What’s on Offer

Competitive salary commensurate with experience.

Flexible and hybrid working arrangements to support work-life balance.

A supportive and inclusive culture where collaboration and professional development are encouraged.

Comprehensive training opportunities and support for professional progression.

Private healthcare, company pension scheme, and enhanced annual leave.

The chance to contribute to a consultancy known for its sustainability ethos and commitment to innovation in ecological practice.