Principal Ecologist (Planning)

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Principal Ecologist to join a growing ecology team within a well-established multidisciplinary consultancy.

This position offers the chance to work on a broad range of development and infrastructure projects, providing ecological advice at the early stages of project development and helping clients successfully navigate environmental considerations throughout the planning process.

The successful candidate will join a collaborative and supportive team that combines strong technical expertise with practical project delivery experience. Despite being part of a larger organisation, the ecology function maintains a close-knit feel, offering a genuine opportunity to influence team development, contribute ideas, and play a key role in its continued growth.

This role would particularly suit someone who enjoys managing projects, building client relationships, reviewing technical work, and helping shape ecological solutions on complex projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead ecological projects across a varied portfolio of development and infrastructure schemes.
• Coordinate and oversee the delivery of ecological assessments and supporting technical documentation.
• Provide ecological advice to clients, project teams and external stakeholders.
• Review technical reports and ensure a high standard of deliverables.
• Manage project programmes, budgets and resource requirements.
• Support habitat and protected species workstreams where required.
• Liaise with planning authorities, consultees and project partners.
• Mentor and support the development of junior members of the team.
• Assist with work-winning activities, proposals and client development.
• Contribute to the ongoing improvement and growth of the ecology team.

Requirements

• Degree qualified in Ecology, Environmental Science or a related discipline.
• Previous experience operating at Senior Ecologist or Principal Ecologist level.
• Strong understanding of ecological legislation, policy and current industry guidance.
• Experience producing and reviewing technical ecology reports.
• Proven project management and client-facing experience.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Membership of CIEEM or another relevant professional body.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Full UK driving licence.

The following would be advantageous, but are not essential:

• Experience supporting major infrastructure or development projects.
• Protected species survey or licensing experience.
• Experience mentoring or managing ecologists.
• Chartered status or progression towards chartership.

Salary & Benefits

• Competitive salary dependent on experience.
• Hybrid working model, typically with two office days per week.
• Flexible working arrangements.
• Annual performance-related bonus.
• Professional membership subscriptions paid.
• Ongoing training, CPD and career development support.
• Clear opportunities for progression.
• Exposure to a diverse and interesting project portfolio.
• Supportive and collaborative working environment.
• Opportunity to help shape and influence a growing ecology team.

If you're an experienced Senior Ecologist looking to progress or an established Principal Ecologist seeking a new challenge, I'd be delighted to arrange a confidential discussion.