Senior / Principal Ecologist

JR United Kingdom; Bolton; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A dynamic consultancy is seeking a Senior/Principal Ecologist to lead a team and manage diverse ecological projects across the UK. The ideal candidate will have a passion for ecology, proven supervisory skills, and a desire to contribute to a forward-thinking company focused on sustainability.

Benefits

Collaborative work culture promoting work-life balance.

Usual benefits apply.

Qualifications

• Protected species survey licence (e.g., bats, great crested newts) or relevant ecological knowledge.
• Eligible for or hold CIEEM membership.
• Full UK driving licence and vehicle access.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and support junior ecology staff and project teams.
• Conduct habitat and species assessments, oversee mitigation planning.
• Build and maintain relationships with clients and stakeholders.

Skills

Ecology enthusiasm

Supervision

Field survey skills

Communication

Teamwork

Education

Degree in ecology or related field

Tools

GIS tools (QGIS, ArcGIS)

Job description

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Senior/Principal Ecologist, bolton, greater manchester

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Client:

Cobalt Recruitment

Location:

bolton, greater manchester, United Kingdom

Job Category:

Other

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EU work permit required:

Yes

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Job Views:

2

Posted:

31.05.2025

Expiry Date:

15.07.2025

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Job Description:

Cobalt is seeking an experienced ecologist ready to take the next step in their career with a dynamic, growing consultancy. This role offers the chance to lead a team and manage diverse ecological projects across the UK, with a focus on the Home Counties, Midlands, and southern regions. It’s ideal for someone who wants to help shape a forward-thinking, ecology-focused company.

What You’ll Do:

• Oversee and support junior ecology staff and project teams.
• Carry out habitat and species assessments (including Phase 1, NVC/UK Habitats), and oversee mitigation planning.
• Review ecological reports and provide technical oversight.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients and stakeholders.
• Contribute to the firm’s strategic and operational growth.

What You’ll Need:

• A real enthusiasm for ecology and sustainability.
• Experience supervising or mentoring team members.
• Protected species survey licence (e.g., bats, great crested newts) or deep knowledge in areas like botany or invertebrates.
• Strong field survey skills and mitigation experience.
• Good communication and teamwork abilities.
• Eligible for or already hold full CIEEM membership.
• A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.

Nice to Have:

• A degree or equivalent in ecology or a related field.
• Familiarity with GIS tools (QGIS or ArcGIS – training available).
• Interest in business development or sales.
• Experience with EcIA, BREEAM, or biodiversity net gain.
• EPSM licence or other advanced ecological qualifications.
• Competitive salary (£45k–£55k depending on experience).
• Usual benefits apply
• A collaborative and supportive culture that promotes work-life balance.