Associate Ecologist

Ocean to Earth Recruitment is proud to partner with our client, a leading environmental consultancy renowned for its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and community engagement. With a legacy dating back to 1987, our client offers integrated services in ecology, forestry, arboriculture, and landscape design, all aimed at fostering positive environmental change.

About the Role

As a senior member of the Ecology team, you will:

• Lead with Vision: Serve as the technical and strategic lead on projects, guiding teams and clients toward sustainable, nature-first solutions.

• Mentor and Inspire: Cultivate a culture of continuous learning and professional development within the team.

• Collaborate Across Disciplines: Work closely with in-house experts in forestry, arboriculture, and design to deliver holistic project outcomes.

• Drive Impactful Projects: Contribute to initiatives ranging from habitat creation to biodiversity net gain planning.

• Influence Policy and Practice: Leverage our client's strong industry reputation to help shape broader environmental initiatives.​

Who We're Looking For

The ideal candidate will:

• Hold a relevant degree in ecology, environmental science, or a related field.

• Possess at least one protected species licence (bats or dormice preferred).

• Be a full member of CIEEM or working towards it.

• Have a sound understanding of UK environmental legislation and planning frameworks.

• Demonstrate strong experience with the DEFRA Biodiversity Metric.

• Exhibit site appraisal and botanical ID skills (FISC Level 3+).

• Have experience managing large, complex ecological projects and survey teams.

• Have previous involvement in species mitigation licensing and implementation.​

Desirable Extras

• Advanced skills in a niche ecological area, such as botany or bioacoustics.

• Registration under Natural England Bat Class Licence / Earned Recognition schemes.

• Experience writing complex technical reports (e.g., BREEAM, EIA).

• Chartered membership of CIEEM or working towards it.

• Interest in ecological technology – GIS, digital data collection, etc.​

Why Join Our Client?

• 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays.

• A collaborative, purpose-led workplace with real environmental impact.

• Cross-discipline project work in a progressive, supportive team.

• Offices set in inspiring natural landscapes.

• A commitment to sustainability, including initiatives like peat-free composting, water recycling, and support for Forest Schools.​

Next Steps

If you're ready to use your expertise to influence how ecological consultancy is delivered—grounded in science, sustainability, and meaningful action—we want to hear from you.