Principal Ecologist (Generalist)

Principal Ecological Consultant

An excellent opportunity has arisen for an experienced Principal Ecological Consultant to join a growing environmental team within a well-established multidisciplinary consultancy.

This role is ideal for an experienced ecology professional who enjoys a mix of technical leadership, project management, client engagement and mentoring. Working across a diverse portfolio of development and infrastructure projects, you will play a key role in helping clients navigate ecological constraints, environmental planning requirements and project delivery challenges.

The business offers the benefits of an established consultancy whilst maintaining a collaborative and supportive team culture. The ecology function continues to evolve and expand, creating genuine opportunities for experienced consultants to influence the team's growth, support junior colleagues and help shape future service offerings.

The role would suit either an established Principal Ecologist / Principal Ecological Consultant or a strong Senior Ecologist looking to step into a more strategic and client-facing position.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead ecological commissions across a diverse range of development, infrastructure and environmental projects.
• Manage project delivery from initial instruction through to final reporting and client sign-off.Provide technical guidance on ecological risks, constraints and opportunities.
• Oversee ecological surveys, assessments and reporting activities.
• Review technical outputs and ensure high standards of quality and consistency.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, stakeholders and project teams.
• Manage project budgets, programmes and resource requirements.
• Support the preparation of proposals, fee submissions and tender responses.
• Mentor and support less experienced ecologists.
• Work closely with colleagues from other technical disciplines to deliver integrated project solutions.
• Represent the ecology team during client and stakeholder discussions.

Requirements

• Degree qualified in Ecology, Environmental Science or a related discipline.
• Significant experience within ecological consultancy or a closely related environmental sector.
• Strong understanding of UK ecological legislation, planning policy and industry guidance.
• Previous experience managing complex projects and client relationships.
• Excellent report writing, communication and organisational skills.
• Experience reviewing technical work and supporting junior team members.
• Membership of a relevant professional body such as CIEEM.
• Full UK driving licence. 

The following would be advantageous but are not essential:

• Protected species survey or licensing experience.
• Experience delivering projects within infrastructure, energy or development sectors.
• GIS or ecological data management experience.
• Experience supporting business development or work-winning activities.
• Chartership or progress towards chartership.

Salary & Benefits

• Competitive salary dependent on experience.
• Hybrid and flexible working arrangements.
• Strong emphasis on work-life balance.
• Professional membership support.Training,
• CPD and career development opportunities.
• Clear progression pathway within a growing team.
• Exposure to a varied and high-profile project portfolio.
• Opportunity to help shape the direction of an expanding ecology function.
• Supportive and collaborative team environment.

If you're an experienced ecologist looking for a role that combines technical excellence, project leadership and genuine career progression, I would be delighted to arrange a confidential discussion.