Senior / Principal Ecologist

TN United Kingdom; Farnham; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An independent ecology consultancy is seeking experienced Senior Ecologists to join their passionate team. This role offers the chance to manage diverse ecological projects, implement assessments, and lead junior staff while enjoying a supportive work environment. With opportunities for professional development and a strong focus on client relationships, this position is ideal for those looking to make a significant impact in the field of ecology. Join a dynamic team dedicated to sustainability and excellence in ecological consultancy.

Benefits

Profit-linked bonus scheme

24 days of annual leave

Generous training budget

Structured TOIL system

Qualifications

• In-depth knowledge of ecological legislation and best practices.
• Experience in project management and ecological assessments.

Responsibilities

• Manage ecological assessments and coordinate surveys.
• Lead junior staff and oversee project management tasks.

Skills

UK and EU wildlife legislation

Field survey planning and coordination

Project management

Environmental Impact Assessments

Report writing

Communication skills

Education

Membership of CIEEM

Level 1 class survey license for bats

Job description

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Your new company

My client is an independent ecology consultancy operating from their main offices in Surrey and Dorset, supported by satellite teams in the West Country. Since 2009, they have grown steadily and sustainably, primarily due to their excellent recommendations, strong client relationships, and hands-on work ethic.

Your new role

As an expanding company to meet increasing demand, they are seeking experienced Senior Ecologists to join their team and support a diverse range of small to medium-sized projects across various sectors. This role offers an opportunity to demonstrate a broad range of ecological skills through specialist technical work, within a passionate, integrated, dynamic, and friendly team.

Your responsibilities will include project management and the implementation of ecological assessments, coordination of surveys, consultation, and mitigation activities to support clients’ proposals and operations. You will also manage the technical work of junior staff and sub-consultants, with potential project management and leadership opportunities depending on experience. The role provides numerous opportunities to explore your interests within ecology and related disciplines.

What you'll need to succeed

• In-depth knowledge of UK and EU wildlife legislation, planning policies, licensing requirements, and best practice survey techniques;
• Experience leading, planning, and coordinating field surveys, analyzing survey results, and planning ecological mitigation works;
• Minimum Level 1 class survey license for bats (essential);
• Experience with the planning system, including Environmental Impact Assessments, Habitats Regulations Assessments, and Biodiversity Net Gain Assessments;
• Proven ability to write thorough and complex reports and assessments, such as HRA stages 1-4 and Environmental Statement chapters;
• A successful track record in project management;
• Experience preparing ecology proposals and tenders;
• Membership of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) (essential);
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, capable of producing meticulous technical reports and confidently engaging with clients and stakeholders;
• While field skills are necessary, the role also involves significant office-based coordination, data analysis, client contact, and report writing.

  What you'll get in return

  This is an exciting and rewarding opportunity to make a difference. You will work with talented, dedicated, and supportive colleagues. The company offers broad project exposure, mentoring, and personalized development opportunities.

  • A generous profit-linked bonus scheme;
  • 24 days of annual leave;
  • A generous training budget for further chartership;
  • A structured TOIL system.