Senior/Principal Ecologist

JR United Kingdom; England; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

An ambitious consultancy is seeking a dedicated ecology professional to lead a developing team and manage diverse ecology projects across the UK. This role offers a supportive work environment that prioritizes work-life balance and personal growth. You will have the opportunity to mentor junior ecologists and contribute to the consultancy's growth while conducting essential habitat surveys and fostering relationships with clients. With a focus on innovation and sustainability, this position provides a vibrant atmosphere where your passion for ecology can thrive, alongside flexible working arrangements and unlimited annual leave.

Benefits

Unlimited Annual Leave

Flexible Working Arrangements

Paid Professional Memberships

In-house and External Training Budgets

Pension Provision

Qualifications

• Passion for ecology and environmental sustainability.
• Experience managing or mentoring junior team members.

Responsibilities

• Lead and guide junior ecologists while managing projects.
• Conduct habitat and protected species surveys.

Skills

Ecology

Project Management

Survey License for Protected Species

Communication Skills

Mitigation Strategy Design

Business Development

Education

Degree in Ecology

Tools

QGIS

ArcGIS

Job description

Cobalt has an exciting opportunity for a dedicated ecology professional eager to grow with a young, ambitious company. The role involves managing a developing team and working on a range of ecology projects across the UK, primarily in the Home Counties, South, and Midlands. A company that values individuals passionate about ecology and looking to shape the future of a thriving business.

Our client offers a supportive work environment with a focus on work-life balance, providing flexibility and opportunities to achieve personal and career objectives. Travel and occasional overnight stays are required due to project needs, with capped travel commitments to maintain a balanced lifestyle.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Lead and guide junior ecologists while managing projects.
2. Conduct habitat and protected species surveys, including Phase 1 or NVC/UK Habitats, and mitigation design and implementation.
3. Review and provide technical input on ecological reports.
4. Foster strong relationships with clients, colleagues, and stakeholders.
5. Contribute to the growth and development of the consultancy.

Essential Skills and Experience:

1. A passion for ecology and environmental sustainability.
2. Experience managing or mentoring junior team members.
3. Survey license for protected species (e.g., bats, newts) or specialist expertise in other taxa (e.g., botany, invertebrates).
4. Strong experience in habitat and protected species surveys.
5. Competence in designing and implementing mitigation strategies.
6. Good communication and interpersonal skills.
7. Full membership of CIEEM (or eligibility to achieve this).
8. Full driving license and access to a car.
9. Degree or equivalent in an ecology-related field.
10. Proficiency with QGIS or ArcGIS (training available).
11. Experience in sales/business development or a willingness to learn.
12. Knowledge and experience of EcIA, BREEAM, or biodiversity net gain.
13. Advanced knowledge in specific ecological fields (e.g., bats).
14. European Protected Species Mitigation (EPSM) licenses or similar qualifications.
15. Pension provision.
16. Use of Apple computer and iPhone for work.
17. Paid professional memberships.
18. Access to in-house and external training budgets for continuous development.
19. Unlimited annual leave with flexible working arrangements.
20. A vibrant, innovative work environment that rewards dedication.