Senior / Principal Ecologist

Advance TRS; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading ecological consultancy is seeking a Senior / Principal Ecologist to lead ecological assessments and habitat design. The role involves providing technical direction, mentoring junior colleagues, and maintaining client relationships. Candidates should have a passion for ecology, strong knowledge of UK wildlife legislation, and experience with ecological surveys. The position offers a competitive salary, a benefits package, and a hybrid working model, promoting work-life balance and personal growth.

Benefits

Competitive salary and tailored benefits package

Hybrid and flexible working arrangements

Extensive professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• Sound knowledge of UK wildlife legislation and ecological policy.
• Experience conducting UKHab surveys, PEAs, EcIAs and BNG assessments.
• Experience in protected species survey, mitigation and licensing.

Responsibilities

• Lead and undertake ecological assessments and habitat design.
• Deliver high-quality ecological reports and outputs.
• Engage with clients and stakeholders.

Skills

Passion for ecology and nature-positive design

Excellent report-writing and communication skills

Strong botanical identification skills (FISC Level 3+ or equivalent)

Education

Membership of CIEEM (or equivalent)

Job description

Job Title: Senior / Principal Ecologist

Salary: £40,000-50,000

Location: UK (flexible – offices across Cambridge and Peterborough)

Type: Permanent | Hybrid working available

About the Role

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced ecologist to lead and deliver high-quality ecological input across a wide range of projects. You’ll take ownership of ecological assessments, habitat design and nature recovery work, collaborating across disciplines to deliver nature-positive outcomes.

As a senior member of the ecology team, you’ll guide projects from inception to completion, provide technical direction, and play a key role in mentoring junior colleagues and maintaining client relationships.

About the Client

Our client is a leading consultancy delivering transformative environmental and infrastructure projects across the UK. Their 130-strong ecology team includes some of the most respected professionals in the industry — from Fellows of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) to its current President.

They pride themselves on a flexible, inclusive and supportive culture where wellbeing and personal growth are at the heart of every decision.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and undertake ecological assessments and habitat design.
• Develop innovative, pragmatic mitigation and compensation strategies.
• Deliver high-quality ecological reports and outputs in line with best practice.
• Act as project ecology lead, coordinating multidisciplinary input.
• Manage tasks, budgets and timelines effectively.
• Mentor and support early-career ecologists.
• Engage with clients and stakeholders to maintain strong working relationships.

What Our Client is Looking For

• Passion for ecology and nature-positive design.
• Sound knowledge of UK wildlife legislation and ecological policy.
• Experience conducting UKHab surveys, PEAs, EcIAs and BNG assessments.
• Excellent report-writing and communication skills.
• Strong botanical identification skills (FISC Level 3+ or equivalent).
• Experience in protected species survey, mitigation and licensing.
• Track record of managing ecological deliverables and projects.
• Member of CIEEM (or equivalent).
• Full UK driving licence.

What Our Client Offers

• Competitive salary and tailored benefits package.
• Hybrid and flexible working arrangements.
• Inclusive, supportive working culture.
• Extensive professional development and training opportunities.
• Genuine focus on wellbeing and work–life balance.

Eligibility

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. Some projects may require eligibility for UK security clearance (minimum 5 years’ UK residency).

Opportunity for Growth

This role offers a clear progression pathway into leadership and technical specialism within ecology. You’ll have the chance to influence national-scale projects, shape environmental policy, and mentor the next generation of ecologists.