Senior Ecologist

An opportunity has become available for an experienced ecology professional to join a growing environmental consultancy working across a diverse range of planning, development, and environmental projects.

This role offers the opportunity to work within a collaborative multidisciplinary team, delivering ecological assessments, Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) services, habitat surveys, and planning support. You'll be involved in a varied project portfolio while benefiting from ongoing professional development, mentoring opportunities, and genuine career progression within a supportive environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and deliver ecology and biodiversity projects from inception through to completion.
• Prepare and review ecological reports, including Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs), Biodiversity Net Gain Assessments, sustainability-related ecological assessments, and protected species reports.
• Undertake Biodiversity Net Gain calculations using recognised biodiversity metric methodologies.
• Carry out and lead habitat, PEA, UKHab, bat, and other protected species surveys for a range of development projects.
• Produce habitat mapping and spatial analysis using GIS software.
• Provide technical ecology and biodiversity advice as part of multidisciplinary project teams.
• Support the preparation of fee proposals, reports, and technical documentation.
• Mentor, train, and support junior ecology team members.
• Liaise with clients, project teams, consultees, and external stakeholders throughout project delivery.
• Attend project and client meetings, providing technical input and project updates.

Requirements

• Degree qualified in Ecology, Biology, Environmental Science, or a related discipline.
• Postgraduate qualifications would be advantageous.
• Full membership of CIEEM.Strong experience delivering ecological consultancy projects within the planning and development sector.
• Proven ability to prepare ecological reports and undertake technical quality assurance reviews.
• Experience undertaking PEAs, habitat assessments, Biodiversity Net Gain assessments, and protected species surveys.
• Competence using GIS software for habitat mapping and ecological assessment.
• Good understanding of Biodiversity Net Gain requirements and biodiversity metric methodologies.
• Experience designing and leading bat surveys and other protected species survey programmes.
• Good botanical knowledge with experience of habitat classification and survey methodologies.Excellent report writing, project management, communication, and client management skills.
• Highly organised with the ability to work independently and make informed decisions.
• Protected species survey licences would be advantageous.
• Genuine enthusiasm for biodiversity conservation and ecological enhancement.

Salary & Benefits

• Competitive salary package with potential performance-related bonus.
• Hybrid and flexible working arrangements.
• 23 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
• Enhanced pension contributions.
• Ongoing training, mentoring, and professional development support.
• Enhanced family-friendly policies.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Additional wellbeing, healthcare, and lifestyle benefits.
• Volunteer days to support community and environmental initiatives.
• Regular social events and team activities.
• Opportunity to contribute to industry best practice initiatives and professional working groups.