senior ecologist in Leeds

Energy Jobline ZR; Leeds; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

An ecological consultancy is seeking a Senior Ecologist to lead diverse ecological projects across the UK. The role involves managing projects, performing ecological assessments, and mentoring junior staff. Candidates should have a relevant degree, significant experience, and a good understanding of UK ecological legislation. Flexible working arrangements and a strong focus on employee wellbeing are offered.

Benefits

Flexible working arrangements

Paid professional memberships

Generous annual leave

Performance related bonus

Qualifications

• Minimum of four years’ experience in ecological consultancy.
• Strong understanding of UK planning and ecological legislation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage ecological projects to high technical standards.
• Design and deliver a range of protected species and habitat surveys.
• Prepare and review PEAs, EcIAs, BNG Assessments, HRAs, and ES chapters.
• Advise on ecological legislation, planning policy, and mitigation strategies.

Skills

Project management

Ecological assessments

Client communication

Technical leadership

GIS software proficiency

Survey licensing

Education

Degree in Ecology or a related environmental discipline

CIEEM Associate membership (Full Member)

Tools

QGIS/QField

Job description

Senior Ecologist – Leeds – £45,000 + Flexible Working Available + Benefits

The Job

An opportunity has arisen for an experienced Senior Ecologist to join a well established and growing environmental consultancy. Based primarily in Leeds, with consideration for applicants in the Bolsover area, this role offers the chance to lead a diverse range of ecological projects across the UK. The successful candidate will independently manage projects from inception to completion, providing technical leadership, mentoring junior team members, and contributing to the continued growth and success of the business. You will play a key role in delivering high-quality ecological assessments and providing expert advice to clients and stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage ecological projects to high technical standards, on time and within budget
• Design and deliver a range of protected species and habitat surveys
• Prepare and review PEAs, EcIAs, BNG Assessments, HRAs, and ES chapters
• Produce tenders, proposals, and costings for new work
• Advise on ecological legislation, planning policy, and mitigation strategies
• Liaise with clients, statutory bodies, and project stakeholders
• Mentor and support junior ecologists
• Work flexibly, including occasional evenings during survey season (April–September)

Company

A dynamic and forward thinking ecological consultancy working across a wide range of habitats and sectors throughout the UK. The business is known for its collaborative culture, technical excellence and commitment to employee wellbeing. Staff are encouraged to pursue professional interests, supported by structured CPD, training, and flexible working arrangements.

Candidate

• Minimum of four years’ experience in ecological consultancy
• Degree in Ecology or a related environmental discipline (or equivalent)
• CIEEM Associate membership (Full Member)
• Proven experience managing ecological projects from start to finish
• Strong understanding of UK planning and ecological legislation
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Experience writing PEAs, EcIAs, BNG assessments, and ES chapters
• Skilled in protected species and/or habitat surveys, with one or more survey licences (e.g., bats, badgers, botany, ornithology)
• Competent user of GIS software (e.g., QGIS/QField)
• Full, clean UK driving licence and access to own vehicle
• Flexible approach to working hours during survey season

Desirable

• Specialist knowledge in bats (including tree climbing), badgers, botany, or ornithology
• Experience mentoring junior staff
• Holder of or working towards a mitigation licence (e.g., BMCL)

Package

• Salary £30,000 – £45,000 per annum DOE
• Flexible working arrangements to support work life balance
• Paid overtime or TOIL for out of hours survey work
• Ongoing CPD and professional development support
• Paid professional memberships and licence renewalsEmployer pension contributions
• Generous annual leave, with additional leave for long service
• Discretionary performance related bonus
• Regular company funded social events and team activities
• Office closure during the Christmas period

How to Apply

Please email your CV to Liam Davis, Senior Delivery Recruitment Consultant, [e-mail].