Senior Ecologist

Ocean to Earth Recruitment is excited to be representing a forward-thinking environmental consultancy with an office in Exeter in their search for a Senior Ecologist who brings passion, leadership, and values-led delivery to ecological practice.

This role offers a rare blend of technical challenge, people leadership, and meaningful contribution — all rooted in a culture shaped by strong core values that guide how the team works and delivers quality outcomes.

What this role is about

As a Senior Ecologist you’ll lead ecological projects from start to finish across the South West and nationally, acting as a trusted advisor to clients and working collaboratively across disciplines. You’ll support business growth, mentor junior ecologists, and contribute to a team culture that values care, curiosity, and integrity.

You’ll be responsible for tasks including:

• Project leadership and client engagement

• Habitat and protected species surveys

• Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs) and Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIAs)

• Habitats Regulations Assessments (HRAs)

• Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments

• Designing and implementing mitigation strategies

• Protected species licensing support

• Coaching and developing junior staff

• Contributing to proposals and winning new work

This role is perfect for someone who enjoys variety, thrives on responsibility, and is driven by high standards in ecological practice.

Our client’s values — and what they mean for you

Our client places strong emphasis on a values-aligned way of working. These values are lived across the business and shape how you’ll engage with colleagues, clients, and projects:

🌱 Caring
Approach every project and relationship with care — for nature, for people, and for outcomes that protect and enhance the environment.

🤝 Belonging
Be part of a tight-knit team culture rooted in mutual support, shared success, and a sense of community — where your contributions are valued and celebrated.

🚀 Opportunity
Grow professionally in a role that encourages curiosity, innovation, and leadership. You’ll be supported to take initiative and make bold, thoughtful decisions.

😊 Enjoyment
Work should be rewarding and enjoyable. This team believes in balance, celebration, and a positive environment that makes work fulfilling.

🔍 Honesty
Clear, open communication and genuine feedback are non-negotiable. You’ll be encouraged to engage honestly with clients, peers, and challenges alike.

About you

We’re looking for a Senior Ecologist who can combine strong technical knowledge with effective leadership and relationship building. You will ideally have:

• A degree or higher in ecology/biological sciences

• Membership of CIEEM (Chartered or actively working towards Chartership)

• Detailed knowledge of UK ecological legislation and planning context

• Excellent habitat and species survey skills, including UK Habitat Classification

• Experience producing high-quality reports and assessments

• Strong project management and team leadership capability

• Proven ability to nurture client relationships and contribute to business development

• Protected species licences (desirable)

• Full UK driving licence

Why this role matters

This is more than a job — it’s an opportunity to lead and shape ecological work in one of the most dynamic and supportive environments you’ll find. You’ll help deliver positive outcomes for nature, communities, and clients while being part of a team that values care, collaboration, growth, fun, and honesty.

Package highlights

• Competitive salary: £40,960 – £48,450 (dependent on experience)

• 4-day working week at full pay

• Supportive, values-driven culture

• Career progression and leadership opportunities

• Strong focus on wellbeing and work–life balance