Senior Ecologist

Antal International Network; United Kingdom; Hybrid; Confidential; Full time

Job summary

An ecological consultancy in the UK is seeking a Senior Ecologist to manage independent projects and deliver diverse ecological services. The ideal candidate will possess strong skills in ecological surveys and project management, with a genuine passion for ecology. This role offers an empowering environment with competitive salary, unlimited leave, and opportunities for career progression within a friendly team setting.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Unlimited annual leave

Flexible working culture

Paid professional memberships

Training budget

Peer-nominated bonus scheme

Qualifications

• Experience in managing field teams and project delivery.
• Ability to scope, design, and quote for ecological work.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.

Responsibilities

• Lead ecological surveys and fieldwork.
• Manage projects from inception to completion.
• Produce high-quality technical reports and assessments.
• Support and mentor junior team members.
• Liaise with clients and stakeholders.

Skills

Passion for ecology and the environment

Proficiency in habitat surveys

Survey licence for protected species

Project management skills

Strong communication skills

Education

Degree in ecology or related discipline

Membership (or eligibility) of CIEEM

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 seeking to 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 meaningful ecological work across the UK. You’ll be part of a company with clear strategic direction and a strong team ethos.