Senior to Principal Ecologist

JR United Kingdom; Gloucester; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in ecological consulting is seeking a Senior to Principal Ecologist in Gloucester. The successful candidate will lead diverse projects and mentor junior staff while contributing to biodiversity goals. This role promises professional growth, an inclusive workplace, and flexible working arrangements.

Benefits

25 days holiday + 1 day off for your birthday

Vitality Health Membership

Pension scheme and life insurance (4x salary)

Flexible working arrangements

Cycle to work scheme and free parking

Biannual company events plus local team socials

Qualifications

• Deep understanding of UK planning policy and environmental legislation.
• Expertise in BNG assessments, EIA/HRA, and ecological mitigation design.
• Line management or team leadership experience (desirable).

Responsibilities

• Lead ecological input on complex multi-sector projects.
• Author and review technical documents.
• Mentor junior colleagues and deliver in-house training.

Skills

Communication

Stakeholder Engagement

Report Writing

Education

Degree in Ecology or related field

Master’s (desirable)

Tools

CIEEM Membership

Protected Species Licences

Job description

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Senior to Principal Ecologist, gloucester

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Client:

Cobalt Recruitment

Location:

gloucester, United Kingdom

Job Category:

Other

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EU work permit required:

Yes

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Job Views:

4

Posted:

26.06.2025

Expiry Date:

10.08.2025

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Job Description:

This is a standout opportunity for a seasoned ecologist to take the lead on high-profile projects spanning water, energy, telecoms, and major infrastructure. Working within a growing, multidisciplinary environment, you’ll shape ecological strategy, lead complex project delivery, and support junior consultants—all while contributing to the UK's net zero and biodiversity goals.

You’ll be part of a team tackling projects in varied landscapes, from permitted developments to nationally significant schemes, with the flexibility to work remotely or from regional offices.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the ecological input on complex, multi-sector projects
• Author and review technical documents: PEA, EcIA, EIA, HRA, LEMPs, CEMPs, and BNG strategies
• Deliver and interpret Biodiversity Net Gain metrics and advise on pragmatic off-site solutions
• Manage and coordinate protected species surveys and mitigation through in-house and external networks
• Mentor junior colleagues and deliver in-house training and guidance
• Liaise with stakeholders including statutory agencies, planning authorities, and clients
• Prepare fee proposals, manage budgets, and support tender submissions
• Contribute to team development, operational improvement, and strategic growth
• Conduct targeted fieldwork (especially botanical, bat, and ornithological surveys)
• Support habitat design, restoration, and creation in line with biodiversity goals

What You’ll Bring

• Degree in Ecology or related field (Master’s desirable)
• Full or eligible for CIEEM membership
• Deep understanding of UK planning policy and environmental legislation
• Expertise in BNG assessments, EIA/HRA, and ecological mitigation design
• Holder of protected species licences (e.g. bats, GCN preferred)
• Competency in UKHab classifications and habitat condition assessments
• Line management or team leadership experience (desirable)
• Strong communication, report writing, and stakeholder engagement skills
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel

Salary & Benefits

• 25 days holiday + 1 day off for your birthday
• Vitality Health Membership: private healthcare, fitness discounts, and wellbeing tools
• Flexible working arrangements through ‘Flexible Advantage’
• Pension scheme and life insurance (4x salary)
• Electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme
• Cycle to work scheme and free parking at non-city locations
• Biannual company events plus regular local team socials

Why Apply?

• Be at the forefront of environmental innovation and ecological leadership
• Shape a growing team within a highly collaborative, values-led environment
• Influence infrastructure that supports biodiversity, nature recovery, and sustainable futures
• Enjoy career progression, flexibility, and an inclusive workplace culture

To find out more, please contact Sue Greeff on 07458161399 or email [emailprotected]