Consultant/Senior Ecologist

Ocean to Earth Recruitment is proudly representing an established multi-disciplinary environmental consultancy seeking a Consultant to Senior Ecologist to play a key role in building and developing a new ecology team in Sheffield.

This is an excellent opportunity for a resourceful, confident and forward-thinking Ecologist who is looking to step into a position with real influence and responsibility. You will help shape and grow the Sheffield ecology presence, supported by the Ecology Director and experienced ecologists across three other offices.

We’re looking for passionate ecologists who want to contribute to high-quality nature-positive outcomes, working alongside friendly colleagues in landscape, masterplanning and archaeology/heritage as part of a collaborative, multi-disciplinary environment.

Role & Responsibilities

You will be involved across a diverse project portfolio, delivering high-quality ecological work from early planning to project implementation. Responsibilities include:

• Coordinating and delivering protected species surveys

• Preparing and supporting delivery of PEAs, EcIAs, HRAs, BNG assessments and mitigation strategies

• Contributing to the development of junior colleagues

• Acting as a client contact and representing the ecology team effectively

• Playing an active role in establishing and growing the Sheffield ecology function

About You

We’re looking for friendly, motivated and conscientious ecologists with a genuine passion for the natural environment and readiness to take on a growth role.

Essential

• Degree in ecology/biology (2:1+ desirable)

• Protected species survey experience (ideally with personal survey licences)

• Habitat survey experience including UKHab and strong botanical skills

• Solid understanding of wildlife legislation

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Confident user of MS Office and QGIS

• Highly organised, collaborative and proactive

• Keen to keep up to date with latest guidance and innovations

• Willing to undertake night surveys and occasional overnight stays during peak season

• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle

• CIEEM membership (Associate level or above)

Desirable

• Specialist technical expertise (e.g. bats, birds, botany)

• Level 2 bat licence

• FISC Level 3+

What’s on Offer

Our client offers a supportive and friendly working environment that values wellbeing and a strong work-life balance, as well as:

• Competitive salary: £35,000 – £42,000 (depending on experience)

• Permanent, full-time role

• Hybrid working – up to 2 days WFH

• Flexible working around core hours

• Annual profit-related and performance bonus scheme

• Overtime pay for out-of-hours survey work

• 25 days annual leave rising to 30 with length of service

• Enhanced pension contribution with service

• Funded team social events & annual staff trip

• Annual company and ecology development days

• Mobile phone allowance

• Paid professional memberships and licence fees

• Generous CPD and training budget

• Employee wellbeing programme and mental health first aiders

• Inclusive culture that values diversity and equal opportunity

Interested?

If you are a motivated ecologist looking for a career-defining role and the opportunity to help build a new regional team in Sheffield, we would love to hear from you.