Senior Ecologist

Senior Ecologist

(or Principal Ecologist)

Location: Milton Keynes
Salary: 33,000 - 50,000 DOE
Benefits: Hybrid Working + Flexible Hours + TOIL + Progression + Generous Holiday Package + Professional Development

We are working with a respected and growing UK consultancy that is looking to appoint a Senior or Principal Ecologist to join their Milton Keynes team.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced ecology consultant who is looking for a role with genuine progression, a varied project portfolio and the chance to take on more technical, project management and client-facing responsibility.

The company works across a wide range of ecology, planning, infrastructure, development and environmental projects, offering strong technical support, flexible working and a positive team culture.

The Role:

As a Senior / Principal Ecologist, you will be involved in the delivery of a broad range of ecological projects across Milton Keynes and the South East.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Managing and delivering ecology projects from inception through to completion across Milton Keynes and the South East
• Undertaking and coordinating protected species and habitat surveys
• Preparing and reviewing technical reports, including PEAs, EcIAs, protected species reports and mitigation strategies
• Supporting clients through the planning and development process throughout Milton Keynes and the South East
• Managing project budgets, deadlines and workloads
• Liaising with clients, stakeholders, contractors and internal teams
• Supporting junior members of the ecology team through mentoring and technical guidance
• Providing input into BNG, UKHab surveys, habitat assessments and ecological mitigation
• Assisting with business development and work-winning where appropriate

Ideal Candidate:

• Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, Biology or a related subject
• Strong experience within a UK ecology consultancy
• Experience managing ecology projects, budgets and deadlines
• Confident producing and/or reviewing technical ecology reports
• Good knowledge of UK protected species legislation and the planning system
• Experience with PEAs, EcIAs, protected species surveys and mitigation
• BNG, UKHab and habitat condition assessment experience would be beneficial
• Protected species licences, such as bat or GCN, would be desirable but are not essential
• CIEEM membership, or working towards this, would be advantageous
• Full UK driving licence

This role would suit an experienced Senior Ecologist looking to progress, or an established Principal Ecologist seeking a new opportunity with a supportive and forward-thinking consultancy.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary of 38,000 - 55,000 DOE
• Hybrid working
• Flexible working hours
• TOIL
• Generous holiday package
• Pension scheme
• Ongoing professional development
• Clear progression opportunities
• Supportive and collaborative team environment
• Varied and high-quality project work