Principal Ecologist

You will be joining an established team of terrestrial ecology specialists with considerable technical knowledge across habitats, protected species, BNG and ecological assessment. It is an environment where you can bring your own expertise while continuing to learn from experienced ecologists around you, rather than reaching a senior level and finding that your development stops. The team works on challenging projects across the UK, including housing, renewable energy, retail and employment development.

The opportunity

This is a genuine Principal-level position combining technical ecology, project leadership, client management and mentoring.

You will remain closely involved in ecological work, designing and leading surveys, reviewing technical reports and providing specialist advice, while also managing projects and supporting less experienced ecologists.

Importantly, you will be surrounded by other experienced ecological professionals. For someone who values being part of a team where there are strong technical ecologists to learn from, exchange ideas with and challenge your thinking, this is a particularly attractive opportunity.

There is also a defined progression route towards Associate Ecologist, with the opportunity to take responsibility for a larger team and increasingly complex project portfolio as you develop.

What you'll be doing

Your responsibilities will include:

• Designing, organising and undertaking terrestrial ecology surveys and site visits
• Producing high-quality technical reports
• Reviewing and signing off reports produced by other ecologists
• Providing technical feedback, coaching and mentoring
• Independently managing a portfolio of ecology projects
• Preparing fee proposals, scopes, programmes and budgets
• Managing client and stakeholder relationships
• Maintaining consistently high technical standards across project delivery
• Supporting business development and developing existing client relationships
• Working closely with senior management on the continued development of the ecology team

This is therefore well suited to someone who wants progression but doesn't want progression to mean moving away from ecology.

About you

You will ideally have at least four years' relevant professional experience within ecological consultancy or a closely related environment, together with a relevant degree or postgraduate qualification.

Technically, you should have strong experience across UKHab or Phase 1 habitat surveys, botanical and faunal identification, protected species surveys, mitigation and licensing.

You will also need experience producing and reviewing reports including PEAs, EcIAs, BNG assessments and protected species reports, alongside project management and client liaison experience.

At least one protected species survey licence is required, together with Full CIEEM membership or eligibility to obtain it. Experience with NVC, MoRPh, protected species development licences or Public Inquiry work would be particularly valuable.

Why consider this opportunity?

There are plenty of Principal Ecologist roles in the market. What makes this one particularly interesting is the opportunity to become part of a genuinely technically strong ecology team.

If you enjoy being around other ecologists who care about the quality of their work, want access to people you can continue learning from and would like to contribute your own expertise to that environment, it is worth exploring.

The team has extensive experience advising high-profile public and private sector clients on projects nationwide, with a particular focus on integrating habitats and wildlife benefits into new development. The consultancy describes its team as professional, friendly and focused on innovation and high-quality technical output.

There is also flexibility around ways of working, with an emphasis on balance and recognising that people work best in different ways.

For someone who wants to keep developing technically, learn from excellent ecologists and be part of a team with a strong reputation for ecological expertise, this could be an excellent next move.

Interested? Contact Vicky Kenrick at Ocean to Earth Recruitment for a confidential conversation.

07341 020135 | vicky@oceantoearth.co.uk

Ocean to Earth Recruitment | Elevating Green Growth