Senior Ecologist

An excellent opportunity has arisen for an experienced Ecologist to join a well-established and expanding ecological consultancy with offices across the South East.

This role is ideally suited to a consultant looking to progress their career within a supportive and technically strong environment. Working as part of an experienced team, you will contribute to a broad range of ecological projects, providing high-quality advice and delivering services across multiple sectors.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to lead projects, develop client relationships, support colleagues and further develop their own technical expertise. The organisation actively encourages professional development and provides extensive support for training, mentoring and specialist skill development, including protected species licensing.

With a varied project portfolio, flexible working arrangements and a strong emphasis on employee wellbeing, this position offers excellent prospects for career progression and long-term professional growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and contribute to ecological projects from initial survey stages through to final reporting and delivery.
• Undertake ecological field surveys and technical assessments across a variety of sites.
• Prepare, review and quality check technical reports and supporting project documentation.
• Deliver and contribute to Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA).
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with clients and project stakeholders.
• Manage project workloads and support successful project delivery.
• Provide guidance and support to colleagues and less experienced team members.
• Apply ecological knowledge to ensure compliance with relevant environmental legislation and policy.
• Utilise GIS and ecological data management systems to support project work.
• Contribute to the continued growth and reputation of the ecology team.

Requirements

• Degree in Ecology or a closely related environmental discipline.
• Minimum of three years' professional ecology experience.
• Experience managing ecological projects and supporting team members.
• Developing ecological field skills aligned with the CIEEM Competency Framework.
• Good understanding of relevant ecological legislation, planning policy and industry guidance.
• Strong report writing, technical review and IT skills.
• Experience delivering Ecological Impact Assessments.
• GIS and ecological database management experience.
• Experience building and maintaining client relationships.
• CIEEM membership appropriate to experience level.
• Full UK driving licence.

The following would be advantageous but are not essential:

• Protected species survey or mitigation licences, particularly bat licences.
• Postgraduate qualification in Ecology or a related subject.
• Specialist knowledge in ornithology or other protected species groups.
• Recent experience as an EPS licence holder.
• Experience supporting habitat creation or enhancement projects.

Salary & Benefits

• Competitive salary of £31,000 - £45,000 depending on experience.
• Flexible and hybrid working options.
• TOIL and flexible working arrangements.
• Pension scheme.
• Annual leave entitlement plus bank holidays.
• Ongoing training and professional development.
• Professional membership support.
• Employee wellbeing benefits.
• Cycle-to-work scheme.
• Regular team events.
• Supportive team culture.
• Excellent opportunities for career growth.