Senior Ecologist - Habitat Banks

Ocean to Earth Recruitment are proud to be partnering with one of the most exciting disruptors in the Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) space. Our client is a fast-growing, entrepreneurial force transforming how the development sector navigates biodiversity legislation and ecological impact. With innovation and positive environmental outcomes at their core, they are driving a new standard in ecological consultancy — agile, strategic, and impact-focused.

We're looking for a Senior Ecologist who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is ready to help shape the future of biodiversity delivery in England. This role is a unique opportunity to join a company that values ambition, initiative, and purpose — where your ecological expertise will directly influence national-level projects and policy compliance.

The Opportunity

This is not a typical consultancy role. You’ll be helping to establish habitat banks, leading BNG assessments, and influencing planning outcomes. You’ll work closely with internal teams, clients, and regulatory bodies to deliver measurable gains for biodiversity and sustainable development. This role demands a strategic thinker, an agile doer, and someone deeply passionate about the ecological sector’s evolution.

What You'll Be Doing

• Lead and deliver BNG projects from start to finish, including surveys, assessments, and management plans

• Carry out protected species and habitat surveys (including GCN, dormice, bats, reptiles)

• Develop Biodiversity Gain Plans and Habitat Management & Monitoring Plans in line with statutory metrics

• Advise stakeholders — developers, local planning authorities, and landowners — on best-practice strategies

• Liaise with regulatory bodies (DEFRA, Natural England, LPAs) to ensure compliance and secure necessary approvals

• Present technical information in clear, actionable formats to diverse audiences

What We’re Looking For

• Degree (BSc or MSc) in Ecology or related field

• CIEEM Accredited (or working toward)

• 5+ years of field-based ecological experience

• Holder of at least two European Protected Species (EPS) survey licences

• Excellent botanical ID skills; experienced in transects, quadrats, and bat handling

• Proven ability to deliver ecological appraisals and develop robust BNG strategies

• Familiarity with relevant planning policies and biodiversity legislation

• Strong communication and report writing skills

• Proficiency with the Statutory Metric, GIS, and ecological modelling tools

• Driving licence and flexibility for fieldwork and client meetings

What’s On Offer

• £50,000 per annum

• Access to a thriving co-working space in Camden (LABS)

• Dynamic, non-corporate culture with a real sense of purpose

• Significant fieldwork and hands-on project experience

• Opportunities to grow with a business at the cutting edge of ecological change

If you’re excited by the idea of joining a mission-led, commercially driven team and helping shape the landscape of BNG delivery in the UK, we want to hear from you.

To apply, contact Ocean to Earth Recruitment with your CV and a brief cover note. Let’s take your career — and the planet — forward.