Senior Ecological Consultant

Recruiting Now Through Ocean to Earth Recruitment – Specialists in Environmental & Ecological Careers

Ocean to Earth Recruitment is proud to be partnering with a leading UK environmental consultancy to recruit an experienced Senior Ecological Consultant for a permanent position based in Cardiff. This is an outstanding opportunity for a senior-level ecologist to step into a leadership role within a growing, forward-thinking consultancy delivering high-impact projects across the UK.

About the Role

As a Senior Ecological Consultant, you will play a critical role in leading projects, mentoring junior staff, and delivering technically robust ecological assessments across a wide range of development and infrastructure schemes. You will be responsible for project delivery from tender stage through to completion, ensuring high technical standards, strong client relationships, and commercial success.

This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious ecological professional ready to take the next step in their career with real progression opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as line manager for Ecological Consultants and Assistant Ecologists

• Lead and manage large, complex ecological projects from inception to completion

• Deliver technically complex work including:

  • Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA)

  • European Protected Species Licence (EPSL) applications

  • Habitat Regulations Assessments (HRA)

• Prepare and review high-quality client reports within time and budget constraints

• Build and maintain strong client relationships

• Provide leadership and direction to field teams, ensuring high-quality survey standards

• Support tender preparation and commercial project success

• Maintain active CIEEM membership

• Work toward or maintain protected species licences

• Ensure clear project communication with internal teams and stakeholders

Essential Requirements

• Degree in Ecology or a closely related discipline

• Proven experience working at Senior Ecologist / Consultant level

• Strong knowledge of UK wildlife legislation, habitat surveys, and mitigation

• Advanced field skills in one or more specialist ecological areas

• Holding at least one protected species licence

• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle insured for business use

• Right to Work in the UK

Desirable (Not Essential)

• Ornithology experience

• Botanical survey expertise

• Bat mitigation licence

Benefits & Package

• Salary from £34,000+ depending on experience

• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays

• Hybrid working

• Healthcare cash plan

• Enhanced pension scheme

• Life insurance

• Paid professional memberships

• Training & CPD support

• Discounted gym membership

• Clothing allowance

• Performance bonuses and long-service awards

• Free parking

• Regular team and company social events

Why Apply Through Ocean to Earth Recruitment?

Ocean to Earth Recruitment is a specialist recruitment partner for the ecology, environmental, marine and sustainability sectors across the UK. We don’t just place candidates — we support your long-term career growth.

By applying through Ocean to Earth Recruitment, you’ll benefit from:

• Direct access to exclusive ecological and environmental roles

• Full career guidance and salary advice

• Confidential representation with leading consultancies

• Long-term career development support

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

Our client is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of background.