Principal Ecologist

A leading environmental and ecological consultancy with a long-established reputation for delivering high-quality environmental solutions is seeking an experienced Principal Ecological Consultant to join its growing ecology team.

Working across a diverse portfolio of projects spanning infrastructure, development, utilities, conservation and land management sectors, you'll join a collaborative and technically respected business that places sustainability, ecological enhancement and professional development at the heart of its work.

Your new role

As a Principal Ecological Consultant, you will take a leading role in the delivery and management of ecological projects from inception through to completion. You will provide technical expertise, oversee project delivery, develop client relationships and support the growth and mentoring of the wider ecology team.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Leading and managing a range of ecological consultancy projects.
• Providing expert ecological advice across multiple sectors and project types.
• Overseeing ecological surveys, assessments, mitigation strategies and monitoring programmes.
• Producing, reviewing and signing off technical reports and deliverables.
• Managing project budgets, quality standards and programme delivery.
• Building and maintaining strong client relationships.
• Supporting business development activities, tenders and fee proposals.
• Mentoring and developing junior ecologists and supporting technical excellence within the team.
• Working alongside multidisciplinary environmental specialists to deliver integrated solutions.
• Ensuring compliance with ecological legislation, policy and industry best practice.
• Supporting innovation and continuous improvement across ecological services.

What you'll need to succeed

• Degree qualification in Ecology, Environmental Science, Biological Sciences or a related discipline.
• Full membership of CIEEM, with Chartered status or progression towards Chartership is highly desirable.
• Extensive experience within ecological consultancy.
• Strong understanding of UK ecological legislation, planning policy and industry guidance.
• Experience managing complex ecological projects and multidisciplinary teams.
• Proven experience producing and reviewing a range of ecological reports
• Strong understanding of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) requirements and implementation.
• Experience using GIS software such as QGIS and/or ArcGIS Pro.
• Excellent communication, client management and report-writing skills.
• Experience mentoring, coaching or managing ecological professionals.
• Commercial awareness and the ability to contribute to business growth.

What you'll get in return

• Competitive salary of £47,000 - £57,000 (DOE) and a comprehensive benefits package.
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
• Ongoing professional development and clear career progression opportunities.
• Support towards professional accreditation and continued learning.
• Access to a varied and interesting project portfolio.
• A supportive, collaborative and inclusive working environment.
• The opportunity to play a key role in delivering nature-positive outcomes across the UK.