Senior Ecologist

This is an excellent role for an ambitious Senior Ecologist looking to take ownership of projects and further develop well-rounded consultancy skills within a supportive, progressive business. The consultancy has enjoyed consistent growth since its formation and is recognised for its technical excellence, pragmatic approach, and client-focused service.

Senior Ecologists are trusted with a high level of autonomy, managing projects from quotation through to invoicing, while being supported by a collaborative and nurturing team environment. Specialists are also welcomed and encouraged to develop their own niche areas of expertise.

Key Responsibilities

• Delivery of Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, habitat surveys, and condition assessments

• Undertaking Biodiversity Impact Assessments and Ecological Impact Assessments

• Conducting protected and priority species surveys

• Designing surveys, preparing quotations and tenders

• Managing projects and leading field teams

• Preparing high-quality technical reports

• Occasional travel and overnight stays as required (with clear limits to protect work–life balance)

Projects are delivered nationwide, with the majority located across the Home Counties, South of England, and the Midlands.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Demonstrable enthusiasm for ecology and the environment

• Experience of Phase 1 habitat surveys / UKHab surveys

• Holding at least one protected species survey licence (e.g. bats, dormouse, GCN, barn owl, reptiles)

• Proven ability to manage projects and lead field teams

• Experience preparing or securing European Protected Species Mitigation (EPSM) licences

• Excellent report writing and communication skills

• Comfortable working independently and as part of a team, including occasional unsociable hours

• Confident in survey design and costings

• Full UK driving licence with access to a vehicle

Desirable Skills

• Advanced expertise in one or more specialist ecological areas

• Membership of CIEEM (or eligibility)

• Degree (or equivalent) in an ecology-related discipline

• Experience using QGIS or ArcGIS

• Line management or mentoring experience

• Confidence in networking and generating new work

• Previous success securing EPSM licences (e.g. bats or great crested newt)

What’s on Offer

• Competitive and flexible salary package

• Apple computer and iPhone

• Professional membership fees covered

• Unlimited internal and external training budget

• Colleague-nominated bonus scheme

• Generous pension contribution

• Unlimited annual leave and flexible working approach

• Hybrid working model with a strong focus on work–life balance

• Regularly updated benefits reflecting a modern, forward-thinking business

Location & Working Pattern

Candidates should live within commuting distance of Oxford or the wider region, or be willing to relocate. Hybrid working is fully supported, with a flexible mix of home and office-based work.

Career Progression

Joining an ambitious and growing consultancy offers excellent opportunities for rapid career progression, responsibility, and long-term development.