Senior Ecologist

Bennett and Game Recruitment LTD; Salford; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

An ecological consultancy in Salford is seeking a Senior Ecologist to manage ecology projects and mentor junior staff. The role emphasizes delivering sustainable solutions and requires a degree in Ecology along with CIEEM membership. You'll enjoy flexible working conditions and 24 days of holiday, with potential for growth in a collaborative environment.

Benefits

24 days holiday

Hybrid working arrangements

Paid professional subscription

Cycle to Work Scheme

Eyecare scheme

Qualifications

• Minimum 3-5 years' consultancy experience.
• Full Member of CIEEM is essential.
• Licences for bats or great crested newts are desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage multiple ecology projects.
• Conduct site-based habitat and species surveys.
• Mentor and support junior ecologists.

Skills

Project management skills

Strong written and verbal communication skills

Understanding of UK/EC wildlife legislation

Education

Degree in Ecology or Environmental Science

Tools

GIS capability

Job description

Overview

Bennett and Game are representing a leading Manchester-based environmental consultancy currently seeking a Senior Ecologist to join their expanding team. With a current headcount of 25 and a turnover on track to grow from £2 million to £3 million in the next 12 months, the business is in a strong phase of strategic growth underpinned by a varied, design-led project pipeline. This is an opportunity to work with purpose, delivering practical, sustainable solutions that help clients balance development with meaningful ecological value.

Our client operates across ecology, arboriculture, and green infrastructure, supporting projects nationwide in the residential, commercial, education, and infrastructure sectors. The role will see you take a lead on project delivery, mentor junior team members, and help shape the future of the ecology discipline during this exciting growth phase. The business fosters a collaborative, low-hierarchy culture, with genuine opportunities for tailored career progression and innovation at every level.

Senior / Principal Ecologist Salary & Benefits

• Salary range: £40,000 - £45,000, dependent on experience and licensing
• 24 days holiday (plus bank holidays), rising to 30 with long service
• Hybrid working - flexible arrangements dependent on project demands
• 5% employer pension contribution
• Paid professional subscription (1 per year)
• Access to company fleet vehicles for site travel
• Cycle to Work Scheme and Techscheme
• Eyecare scheme
• Season ticket cash advance available
• 1 volunteering day per year
• Regular staff events and a collaborative, low-hierarchy team culture

Senior / Principal Ecologist Job Overview

• Lead and manage multiple ecology projects from inception through to final delivery
• Conduct site-based habitat and protected species surveys, with particular emphasis on bats, GCN, and Phase 1/UKHab
• Take ownership of technical report writing, EcIA delivery, EPS licensing, and biodiversity net gain assessments
• Mentor and support junior ecologists, offering guidance, technical checks, and development planning
• Act as point of contact for clients, consultants, and planning authorities
• Oversee health and safety compliance, fieldwork logistics, and seasonal team resourcing
• Play a key role in team development and supporting the wider ecology business plan

Senior / Principal Ecologist Job Requirements

• Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or any related subject
• Minimum 3-5 years' consultancy experience
• Full Member of CIEEM (essential)
• Deep understanding of UK/EC wildlife legislation and planning policy
• Demonstrable project management skills, including commercial oversight and delivery against deadlines
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Experience preparing EPSL documents, BNG assessments, and EcIAs
• Licences for bats and/or great crested newts (desirable)
• HRA, GIS capability, or FISC Level 3+ qualifications are advantageous
• Full UK driving licence

If you're looking to take the next step in your ecology career with a purpose-driven consultancy that values both people and the planet, we'd love to hear from you.

Bennett and Game Recruitment are a multi-disciplined technical recruitment agency based in Chichester, West Sussex operating across the UK with specialist teams covering a range of industries.

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