Senior Environmentalist / Ecologist

Manpower; Lewes; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading environmental consultancy is seeking an experienced Senior Ecologist to lead ecological services focused on infrastructure projects. The role involves managing compliance, enhancing biodiversity, and mentoring junior ecologists. Candidates should have at least 6 years of experience in ecological consultancy, hold relevant degrees and licenses, and possess exceptional communication skills. A hybrid working model with travel requirements is included in the compact benefits package.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Company car or competitive car allowance

26 days annual holiday + bank holidays

Pension with salary sacrifice

Paid volunteer days

Hybrid working model

Qualifications

• Minimum 6 years' post-graduate experience in ecological consultancy.
• Full Membership/Accreditation (e.g., CIEEM/IEMA) or equivalent, ideally CEnv.
• Full UK Driving License and Safety Critical Worker Medical required.

Responsibilities

• Lead and deliver complex ecological services across environmental consultancy projects.
• Plan and execute Habitat Surveys and Ecological Impact Assessments.
• Prepare technical reports and secure EPS Mitigation Licences.

Skills

Exceptional written communication

Proven experience managing teams

Attention to detail

Client-focused approach

Education

Relevant degree

Tools

EPS species licenses

CSCS card

Job description

Lead the Way in Sustainable Ecological Development

We are seeking an experienced and licensed Senior Ecologist to lead and deliver complex ecological services across a diverse portfolio of environmental consultancy projects, with a strong focus on infrastructure and the highways sector. You will drive compliance, enhance biodiversity, and mentor the next generation of ecologists.

Key Responsibilities

1. Technical Leadership & Compliance

   Surveys & Assessments: Plan and execute Phase 1/2 Habitat Surveys, Protected Species Surveys, and conduct detailed Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIAs) and Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs).

   Licensing & Reporting: Prepare meticulous technical reports (PEAs, EcIAs, HRAs) and successfully obtain European Protected Species (EPS) Mitigation Licences in both England and Wales.

   Specialist Knowledge: Apply practical working knowledge of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), Environmental Management Systems (EMS), and BREEAM.

2. Project & Client Management
   • Prepare competitive fee proposals and project tenders.
   • Manage project financials and undertake quality assurance (QA) on technical reports and plans.
   • Actively liaise with clients, local authorities, Natural England, and landowners to secure compliance and drive new business acquisition.
   • Serve as the primary ecological and environmental advisor on major infrastructure projects.
3. Mentoring & Team Support
   • Provide high-level technical expertise and mentorship to a team of junior ecologists.
   • Coordinate survey delivery and assist with career development, appraisals, and complex queries.
   • Work collaboratively across the company to ensure the Consultancy operates as a financially viable business.

Essential Requirements

• Experience: Minimum 6 years' post-graduate experience in ecological consultancy.
• Qualifications: Relevant degree (ideally secondary degree or accreditation).
• Professional Status: Full Membership/Accreditation (e.g., CIEEM/IEMA) or equivalent, ideally CEnv.
• Licensing: Must hold one or more EPS species licenses.
• Logistics: Full UK Driving License (extensive travel required), CSCS card, and Safety Critical Worker Medical.

Your Skills

We require exceptional written communication for high-stakes reports, proven experience managing teams and budgets, meticulous attention to detail, and a proactive, client-focused approach.

Benefits Package

• Salary: Competitive
• Vehicle: Company car or competitive car allowance provided.
• Leave: 26 days annual holiday + bank holidays.
• Financial: Pension with salary sacrifice, 1 paid professional membership per year.
• Wellness: Paid volunteer days, all necessary PPE and equipment supplied.
• Flexibility: Hybrid working model with the ability to travel and stay away as required