Ocean to Earth Recruitment is supporting a growing, values-led ecological consultancy to appoint a Senior Ecologist / Project Manager across Kent and Sussex.
This is an opportunity to join a relaxed, informal, and genuinely non-corporate environment, where the focus is on doing good work sustainably. You will be part of a team that values trust, flexibility, and long-term wellbeing, alongside high technical standards.
The role would suit an experienced ecologist ready to step into a senior position, or a consultant seeking a more balanced and varied way of working.
The Opportunity
You will lead and deliver a diverse portfolio of ecological projects, combining project management with hands-on technical input. The work is varied and locally focused, offering real breadth without the need for extensive travel.
Typical project work includes:
- Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIAs)
- Habitats Regulations Assessments (HRAs)
- Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)
- Habitat creation and mitigation design
- Protected species surveys and EPSML applications
Projects are primarily based across Kent and Sussex, with very limited requirement for overnight stays.
Working Arrangement
This role has been structured to support flexibility and autonomy in a meaningful way:
- Four-day working week (Monday to Thursday, full pay)
- Remote-first approach, with hybrid working available
- Sussex office available to use as and when it suits you
- Site work focused locally across Kent and Sussex
- Relaxed, informal, non-corporate culture with minimal hierarchy
Key Responsibilities
- Managing ecological projects from inception through to completion
- Producing high-quality reports, proposals, and technical outputs
- Undertaking and overseeing ecological and protected species surveys
- Preparing EPSML applications
- Liaising with clients, consultees, and multidisciplinary teams
- Supporting and mentoring junior colleagues
- Maintaining strong technical and professional standards
About You
You will bring solid consultancy experience alongside a practical and collaborative approach.
- Degree in ecology or a related discipline
- Around five years’ consultancy experience or equivalent
- Protected species licences, ideally including bats
- Experience preparing EPSML applications
- Strong understanding of UK ecological legislation
- Experience in project management and client liaison
- Eligible for full CIEEM membership
- Full UK driving licence
Additional strengths in botany or wider protected species work would be advantageous.
Package and Benefits
- Salary from £32,000, depending on experience and licences
- Four-day working week trial throughout 2026
- Annual leave above statutory levels, adjusted for the four-day week
- Private medical insurance, including mental health, dental, and optical cover
- £750 annual training budget, with additional support for development
- Full CIEEM membership paid
- Flexible travel support, including mileage or access to a company vehicle
- High-quality field equipment to support efficient working
- Enhanced company sick pay
- Loyalty bonus scheme for long-term service
Why This Role Stands Out
This consultancy has taken a considered approach to how ecological work should be delivered. From reducing unsocial survey hours through better equipment, to trialling a four-day working week, the emphasis is on creating a working environment that is both effective and sustainable.
You will have the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects, develop your expertise, and work within a team that values a calm, balanced, and human approach to consultancy.
Apply
To apply, please submit your CV along with a short covering statement outlining your experience and interest in the role.
Ocean to Earth Recruitment is acting as an employment agency in relation to this vacancy.
