Senior Ecologist

Ocean to Earth Recruitment is working with a well-established and highly respected ecological consultancy to recruit a Senior Ecologist. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced consultant looking to take ownership of projects, build strong client relationships, and play a key role in a growing consultancy with a strong reputation for practical, high-quality ecological advice.

The Role

As a Senior Ecologist, you will lead the delivery of a diverse portfolio of ecological projects, supporting planning applications from feasibility through to post-consent delivery. You will manage your own workload and client relationships, oversee surveys and reporting, and provide expert advice to developers, planners and statutory bodies.

The role offers a balanced mix of office-based work and field surveys, with projects located across Hampshire and the wider south of England. You will be trusted to work autonomously while also contributing to a collaborative and supportive team environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Managing and delivering ecological projects in support of planning applications and discharge of conditions

• Managing your own client portfolio, typically including medium to large residential and commercial developments

• Acting as a primary point of contact for clients, planners, statutory consultees and project teams

• Producing and overseeing high-quality technical reports, including:

  • Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIAs)

  • Habitats Regulations Assessments (HRAs)

  • Mitigation strategies and method statements

  • Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments

• Coordinating and supervising ecological surveys and field staff

• Preparing and submitting European Protected Species licence applications

• Providing mentoring and technical support to junior ecologists

• Contributing to workload planning and the overall performance of the consultancy

Essential Requirements

• A relevant degree in Ecology or a related discipline (BSc or higher)

• 5+ years’ experience within ecological consultancy

• Proven experience managing projects and maintaining client relationships

• At least two Protected Species survey licences, with the ability to apply for mitigation licences for at least one species

• Strong experience in:

  • Ecological survey design and delivery

  • Technical report writing

  • EPS licensing

  • Project coordination and management

  • Client and stakeholder liaison

  • UK planning processes and Biodiversity Net Gain

• Broad and confident field skills

• Strong communication, organisational and leadership abilities

• Full UK driving licence

What’s On Offer

• A senior-level role with genuine autonomy and responsibility

• A varied workload across residential, commercial and infrastructure projects

• A supportive consultancy environment that values quality, professionalism and collaboration

• Opportunities to mentor others and influence project outcomes

• Competitive salary and benefits package

Interested?

For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Ocean to Earth Recruitment. All applications will be handled discreetly, and the client will remain anonymous until interview stage.