Principal Ecologist

At Ocean to Earth Recruitment, we are pleased to be partnering with a forward-thinking and fast-growing ecology consultancy to appoint a Principal Ecologist at an exciting stage in their journey. This is an opportunity to join a young, innovative business that is building its reputation on technical excellence, collaboration, and a genuinely supportive culture.

The Opportunity

This role offers the chance to step into a leadership position within a nurturing and ambitious consultancy. You will play a key role in managing and developing a growing team, while maintaining high technical standards and contributing to the continued evolution of the business.

You will have the autonomy to shape projects, influence direction, and support the development of both people and services. The work spans a diverse portfolio of projects across the Home Counties, South and Midlands, providing both variety and meaningful impact.

This position would suit either an experienced Principal Ecologist seeking greater influence and flexibility, or a Senior Ecologist ready to step up into a leadership role within a supportive environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of ecologists, supporting their development and performance
• Oversee delivery of ecological surveys, assessments, and reporting
• Provide technical review and ensure quality across outputs
• Design and implement mitigation strategies
• Contribute to project planning and delivery across a varied portfolio
• Maintain strong relationships with clients and stakeholders

About You

You will bring a well-rounded consultancy background and a genuine passion for ecology, alongside:

• Experience mentoring or line managing ecologists
• Protected species licence (e.g. bats or great crested newts) or specialist expertise
• Strong field skills across habitat and/or protected species surveys
• Experience with mitigation design and ecological reporting
• Confidence working both independently and collaboratively
• Membership of CIEEM (or working towards)
• Full UK driving licence

Desirable experience includes EcIA, biodiversity net gain, GIS capability, or involvement in business development.

Why This Role Stands Out

This consultancy has created an environment where people are trusted, supported, and given space to grow. Benefits include:

• Unlimited annual leave, supporting genuine work-life balance
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
• A collaborative, values-led culture within a young and ambitious business
• Clear opportunity to lead a team and shape your career direction
• Strong investment in training and professional development
• Competitive salary, pension, and bonus scheme
• Regularly evolving benefits, reflecting a progressive approach to employee wellbeing

Working Environment

While there is an expectation of travel for project work, this is carefully managed to support balance, with limits on time away and consideration for personal commitments. The team operates flexibly, combining home and office working.

Next Steps

If you are looking for a role where you can lead, influence, and grow within a business that values innovation, trust, and long-term development, we would welcome a conversation.