Consultant/Senior Ecologist

Ocean to Earth Recruitment is proud to be working exclusively with a highly regarded independent environmental consultancy to recruit an experienced Ecologist for their growing South Coast team.

This is an excellent opportunity for an established consultant looking to take the next step in their career within a small, close-knit office of around 12 consultants, the majority of whom operate at senior and principal level. The team has built an outstanding reputation for high-quality, pragmatic ecological advice and is trusted by a wide range of private and public sector clients.

The Opportunity

Are you an experienced Ecologist looking for a fresh challenge?
Are you based in Sussex, or considering a move to the coast?
Would you value working in a supportive, collaborative team where quality and professional integrity come first?

If so, this could be an ideal role for you.

You will join a well-established regional office delivering work across residential, commercial, infrastructure and renewable energy projects, as well as habitat creation and biodiversity enhancement schemes. Projects range from large-scale strategic developments through to locally sensitive, smaller sites – offering variety, challenge and real professional satisfaction.

The business works closely with in-house landscape, heritage and design teams to create well-considered schemes that deliver for both people and nature.

The Role

As a Senior/Experienced Ecologist, you will play a key role in the delivery and management of projects from early planning stages through to implementation. You will be trusted to lead on technical work, manage workloads and support the development of junior colleagues.

Responsibilities will include:

• Leading and coordinating protected species surveys and habitat assessments

• Preparing and reviewing PEAs, EcIAs, HRAs, BNG assessments and mitigation strategies

• Providing clear, pragmatic ecological advice to clients and design teams

• Supporting and mentoring junior staff

• Maintaining high standards of report writing and technical quality

• Developing and maintaining strong client relationships

This is a genuinely client-facing role suited to someone confident in their technical ability and communication skills.

About You

Our client is looking for a motivated, personable and conscientious individual with a genuine passion for ecology and high professional standards.

Essential:

• Degree in Ecology, Biology or related discipline

• Strong experience in protected species surveys

• Solid habitat survey experience (including UKHab) and good botanical skills

• Sound knowledge of UK wildlife legislation and planning policy

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Competent with MS Office and QGIS

• Highly organised, able to manage multiple projects and deadlines

• A collaborative team player with a proactive attitude

• Willingness to undertake occasional night surveys and overnight stays

• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle for work

• Membership of CIEEM (or working towards)

Desirable:

• Technical specialism (e.g. ornithology or botany)

• Personal protected species licences (e.g. bats, dormouse)

• FISC Level 3 or above (or equivalent)

What’s on Offer

This consultancy places a strong emphasis on wellbeing, flexibility and professional development. You can expect:

• Competitive salary (typically £35,000 – £43,000 for Senior level, depending on experience)

• Permanent, full-time position

• Hybrid working with up to 2 days from home

• Flexible working hours around core times

• Profit-related and performance bonus scheme

• Paid overtime for out-of-hours survey work

• 25 days annual leave (rising with service) plus bank holidays

• Company pension contribution

• Generous CPD and training budget

• Payment of professional subscriptions and licence fees

• Field equipment and clothing allowance

• Supportive, inclusive working culture with genuine career progression

Equality & Diversity

Our client is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive working environment and welcomes applications from candidates of all backgrounds.