Senior Ecologist

The Opportunity

If you're an experienced ecologist who enjoys delivering high-quality work but feels ready for more ownership, greater project variety or the chance to develop leadership responsibilities, this could be worth exploring.

This opportunity would suit someone who enjoys balancing technical ecology with client relationships and project delivery, and who values being part of a supportive team where people genuinely work together. There's scope to shape your role over time, including gradually stepping into line management and mentoring responsibilities if that appeals to you.

You'll be joining a well-established consultancy with a strong reputation across the UK and access to a broad mix of projects, offering plenty of opportunity to continue developing both technically and professionally.

The Company

This is a growing, multidisciplinary environmental consultancy with teams located across the UK. Their ecologists work closely with specialists in hydrology, freshwater ecology, GIS, arboriculture and environmental assessment, creating a genuinely collaborative environment where knowledge-sharing is encouraged.

The culture is friendly, pragmatic and down-to-earth. People are trusted to manage their own work, supported by approachable leaders and a team that values collaboration over hierarchy. Professional development is taken seriously, with access to a wide range of training and opportunities to work on nationally significant and technically interesting projects.

What You'll Be Doing

You'll take ownership of projects from proposal through to delivery, combining technical expertise with client-facing responsibilities and supporting more junior members of the team.

Key areas of involvement include:

• Managing complex ecological projects and ensuring successful delivery.
• Preparing high-quality technical reports, including EcIAs, HRA work and protected species licence applications.
• Building and maintaining strong relationships with clients.
• Providing guidance and leadership to survey teams and junior ecologists.
• Contributing to business development through tender preparation and project management.
• Developing specialist expertise and progressing additional licences where appropriate.
• Gradually taking on line management or technical leadership responsibilities if this aligns with your career goals.

About You

You'll likely have several years of consultancy experience and a strong understanding of UK ecology, legislation and survey methodologies.

You may already hold protected species licences and be comfortable managing projects and clients, while also enjoying the technical aspects of ecology. Experience in areas such as ornithology, botany or mitigation licensing would be welcomed, although these aren't essential.

Most importantly, you'll be someone who takes pride in producing high-quality work, enjoys collaborating with others and wants to continue developing your career within a supportive and ambitious team.

What's on Offer

Alongside a competitive salary starting from around £34,000 (depending on experience), you'll benefit from:

• Flexible and supportive ways of working.
• A diverse range of projects across multiple sectors.
• Opportunities to develop leadership and management skills.
• Industry-accredited training and mentoring from experienced specialists.
• Paid professional memberships.
• Enhanced pension scheme and life assurance.
• Healthcare cash plan.
• 25 days' annual leave plus additional long-service rewards.
• Gym membership discounts and clothing allowance.
• Regular social events and a friendly, collaborative culture.
• Recognition and reward for outstanding performance.

Location & Flexibility

This role is based in East Anglia, with opportunities across the region including Ipswich and surrounding areas. The position combines office, home and site-based working, offering flexibility alongside the variety that comes with consultancy life. A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle insured for business use are required.

Interested?

If you're happy where you are but curious about what else is out there, this could be a great opportunity to join a business that combines technical excellence with a genuinely supportive culture.

For a confidential conversation and to learn more, feel free to get in touch.