Ecologist/Senior Ecologist

This is a unique opportunity to take full ownership of ecology within a small but fast-growing consultancy, where you’ll manage your own projects, develop new client relationships, and have the autonomy to build and grow your own team.

Our client is a multidisciplinary environmental and planning consultancy with around 28 employees. They’re known for their ambitious growth plans, strong industry reputation, and supportive culture. You’ll be joining at a key stage in their expansion — the perfect time to make your mark and shape the future of their ecological offering.

The Opportunity

This role offers a rare blend of autonomy, variety, and leadership potential. You’ll be the lead ecologist within the company, managing projects from concept to completion, working closely with planners, engineers, and environmental specialists, and delivering expert ecological input across a broad portfolio of work — from infrastructure to renewable energy, commercial and public-sector developments.

You’ll have the independence to run your own projects and the support to grow a dedicated ecology team as demand increases.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage ecology projects from start to finish, delivering practical, high-quality outcomes.

• Shape and grow the ecology function within the business.

• Conduct and oversee ecological surveys, assessments, and mitigation strategies.

• Provide expert ecological and biodiversity advice to clients and project teams.

• Build and maintain strong client relationships, identifying new opportunities and supporting business development.

• Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams to ensure seamless project delivery.

• Travel nationally to deliver on-site surveys and client engagement.

About You

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in ecological consultancy.

• Proven project management experience — confident working independently.

• Excellent understanding of UK ecological legislation, guidance, and best practice.

• Skilled in producing clear, concise, and robust ecological reports.

• Experience with Biodiversity Net Gain and the DEFRA Biodiversity Metric.

• Membership (or eligibility) of CIEEM or another relevant professional body.

• Strong communication and organisational skills.

• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel nationwide.

What’s on Offer

• Autonomy and leadership – the chance to establish and grow the ecology team.

• Exciting project variety – across commercial, public, and infrastructure sectors.

• Career progression – develop into a senior or team lead position as the ecology division expands.

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.

• Company vehicle or car allowance.

• Training and professional development opportunities.

• Supportive, social, and people-first culture – regular team events, socials, and development days.

• Pension scheme, enhanced maternity/paternity pay, and increasing annual leave with service.

About the Client

Our client is a privately owned consultancy with an outstanding reputation for technical expertise, collaboration, and quality of service. With plans to transition to an Employee-Owned Trust, this is an exciting opportunity to join a forward-thinking company where your contribution will directly shape both your career and the company’s success.

If you’re a motivated Ecologist ready to step up, take ownership, and lead your own ecology function, we’d love to hear from you.