Senior Ecologist - Didcot

BSG Ecology; East Hagbourne; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading ecological consultancy in East Hagbourne is seeking a Senior Ecologist to join their team. The role involves managing complex projects and developing your skills in ecology with a supportive and experienced team. Ideal candidates will have significant experience in ecological consultancy and a strong interest in protected species. The company values employee wellbeing and offers benefits including private healthcare and career development opportunities.

Benefits

Private healthcare

Company-funded social events

Health and wellbeing benefits

Qualifications

• At least three years full-time experience working in ecological consultancy.
• Broad ecological skill-set with protected species licences preferred.
• Knowledge of planning system and wildlife legislation.

Responsibilities

• Take responsibility for complex ecological projects.
• Develop skills in ecology and consultancy through mentoring.
• Manage client relations and project progress.

Skills

Ecological consultancy experience

Project management

Communication skills

Ecological issues resolution

Interest in protected species

Education

BSc or MSc in relevant subject

Job description

We are looking for a Senior Ecologist to join our well-established and friendly Oxfordshire team, and one of the most successful independent ecological consultancies in the UK. You will take responsibility for complex, high-profile and ecologically interesting projects. We will work with you to develop your skills in all aspects of ecology and consultancy work through mentoring, a structured review process and tailored training programme. We are particularly looking for more experienced candidates including strong project managers and those with specialist interest in bats (including tree climbers), badgers, water vole, holders of mitigation licences, and botanists. Early in 2026 we will be moving office location to Milton Park, Didcot, located just off the A34 with excellent public transport links. Milton Park is a dedicated science, technology and business park with a large number of amenities including cafes, gym and swimming pool, nursery, pharmacy, urban gardens and a programme of community events throughout the year.

Responsibilities & Qualifications

• Relevant professional ecological experience (ideally including at least three years full-time experience working in ecological consultancy)
• A broad ecological skill‑set and, ideally, one or more protected species licences
• Knowledge and understanding of the planning system and current and evolving wildlife policy and legislation
• Confidence in written and verbal communication
• Effective project management and client liaison skills
• Ability to identify, understand, and resolve ecological issues
• Enthusiasm for ecology and the environment in the UK
• The desire to promote high professional standards in ecology
• An organised approach to work, flexibility and a high level of motivation
• Good BSc and / or MSc in a relevant subject
• A full driving licence and access to your own transport

Why work for BSG Ecology?

• We are a 100% employee‑owned company, committed to maintaining independence and the interests of our staff for the long term.
• We are a multi‑award‑winning, highly respected, industry‑leading consultancy with a strong reputation for technical ability amongst our clients and fellow professionals.
• All our ecologists have the opportunity to work on projects across a wide range of sectors including heritage, renewable energy, residential, leisure and minerals with a diverse range of clients.
• We are committed to investing in training and career development, offering a structured programme of internal training complemented by external training and mentoring.
• Health and safety and staff wellbeing are at the forefront of everything we do, supporting a good work–life balance through careful resourcing, robust TOIL policies and flexible working arrangements.
• We use sophisticated cloud‑based project management and tailored GIS systems, allowing work across offices and remotely.

About BSG Ecology

Established in 1997, we are a multi‑award‑winning, industry‑leading consultancy with a strong reputation for technical ability. We are a 100% employee‑owned company, providing an opportunity to be involved with interesting, challenging and high‑profile projects alongside a highly experienced team of ecologists, many with 15+ years of experience and leadership in their field. Our supportive environment emphasises teamwork, mentoring, training and personal development, with health and safety and staff wellbeing at the forefront of everything we do.

Benefits

In addition to a competitive salary and 25 days (excluding bank holidays) annual leave, we offer benefits that include private healthcare, company‑funded social events, long‑service rewards and health and wellbeing benefits.