Senior Ecologist

Ocean to Earth Recruitment is proud to partner with our client, a small, friendly, and purpose-driven ecological consultancy - in their search for a Senior Ecologist.

Established in 2019, our client has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality ecological services across the UK, with a particular focus on the North of England. As their project portfolio expands, they’re looking for an experienced ecologist to join their collaborative team, ideally based in Leeds. 

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a consultancy that values people, flexibility, and sustainability, all while contributing to meaningful projects that drive green growth and biodiversity enhancement.

The Role

As a Senior Ecologist, you’ll play a key role in managing and delivering ecological projects from concept to completion. You’ll have the autonomy to lead surveys, oversee junior staff, liaise with clients and stakeholders, and help shape the continued success of this growing consultancy.

Your expertise will ensure the highest quality ecological assessments, guiding projects toward sustainable outcomes that balance environmental protection with responsible development.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage ecological projects, ensuring delivery on time and to a high standard.

• Build and maintain relationships with clients, statutory bodies, and stakeholders.

• Prepare tenders and fee proposals for a range of ecological schemes.

• Design and lead protected species and habitat surveys.

• Mentor and support junior ecologists in their professional development.

• Write and review technical reports, including PEAs, EcIAs, BNG assessments, HRAs, and related documentation.

• Provide expert advice on planning policy, ecology legislation, and best practice.

• Contribute innovative solutions to complex ecological challenges.

• Work flexibly, including occasional evenings and weekends during peak survey season.

About You

• Minimum of four years’ experience in ecological consultancy.

• Degree (or equivalent experience) in Ecology or a related discipline.

• Full, clean UK driving licence and access to transport.

• Strong knowledge of UK wildlife legislation, planning processes, and ecological guidance.

• CIEEM membership (Associate level minimum; Full Member preferred).

• Proven track record in project management and client communication.

• Skilled in writing PEAs, EcIAs, BNG assessments, and Environmental Statement chapters.

• Experience leading protected species or habitat surveys.

• Holder of one or more protected species survey licences (e.g. bats, badgers, etc.), ideally with mitigation licence experience (e.g. BMCL).

• Proficient with QGIS / QFIELD or similar GIS software.

• A proactive, organised, and motivated team player with the flexibility to meet project demands.

What’s on Offer

Our client recognises that their people are their greatest strength. They strive to create a positive, inclusive, and flexible working environment where every ecologist can grow and thrive.

• Competitive salary: £30,000 – £45,000, depending on experience

• Flexible working arrangements

• Paid overtime or TOIL for additional survey hours

• CPD support and funded professional memberships/licence fees

• Pension contributions

• Annual leave entitlement plus Christmas shutdown

• Discretionary annual bonus based on performance

• Company-funded social events and a supportive team culture

Join the Movement for Green Growth

At Ocean to Earth Recruitment, our mission is to elevate green growth by connecting passionate professionals with organisations driving sustainable change. If you’re ready to take the next step in your ecological career and join a consultancy that truly values your expertise — we’d love to hear from you.