Senior Ecologist

Ocean to Earth Recruitment is excited to be working with our client, a well-established and award-winning multidisciplinary consultancy, to find a talented Senior Ecologist to join their growing team. Our client is a Platinum Investor in People, recognized for their commitment to employee development and excellence. They are known for delivering high-quality ecological and environmental consultancy services across various sectors. They have built a strong reputation for tackling complex and challenging projects, ensuring the best outcomes for clients, the environment, and local communities.

Due to an expanding workload that includes both conservation and development-led projects, we are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Senior Ecologist to be a key part of their team. This is a permanent role based in Bradford on Avon (near Bath), with flexible working options available—three days in the office or on-site and two days working from home.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage ecological projects and the ecological aspects of multidisciplinary projects.

• Coordinate field surveys and project deliverables for a variety of client assignments.

• Conduct field surveys, including UK Habitat Classification surveys, Condition Assessments, protected species surveys, and Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) if required.

• Undertake Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) Assessments using the statutory metric and produce Biodiversity Gain Plans and Habitat Management and Monitoring Plans (HMMPs).

• Prepare high-quality technical reports such as PEAs, EcIAs, HRA screening reports, and Environmental Statement Ecology Chapters.

• Develop mitigation strategies and provide expert guidance on BNG opportunities and requirements.

• Act as the primary client contact for assigned projects.

• Prepare project proposals, quotes, and tender submissions.

• Mentor and support junior team members in their professional development.

What We’re Looking For

• A relevant degree in ecology or a related field, along with CIEEM membership.

• 4-5 years’ consultancy experience, with proven capabilities in:

  • Managing commercial projects within scope, time, and budget.

  • Identifying and resolving ecological challenges.

  • Producing robust PEAs and Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIAs) in line with CIEEM standards.

  • Assisting in the preparation of European Protected Species (EPS) licence applications (advantageous).

  • Botanical survey skills (FISC Level 4 preferred).

  • Conducting Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments using the Statutory Metric 4.0.

• Holding a Natural England survey licence (desirable).

• Excellent attention to detail and a thorough understanding of UK planning laws, legislation, and policies relevant to ecology.

• A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle insured for business use.

• Experience in project management, site supervision, and liaising with clients, junior staff, contractors, and seasonal surveyors.

What’s on Offer

Our client offers an engaging and supportive work environment, with a variety of projects across different sectors. In addition to career development opportunities, you’ll benefit from:

• Competitive salary (£37K - £43K, depending on experience).

• Annual performance-based bonus.

• Flexible working (three days in the office or on-site, two days from home).

• A balanced survey season approach, ensuring appropriate recovery time.

• Supportive team environment, working alongside experienced ecologists on exciting projects.

• Contributory pension scheme (after three months).

• Private healthcare plan and employee health cash plan (post-probation).

• 28 days annual leave, increasing to 30 days after five years, plus Bank Holidays.

• Up to five days external CPD allowance per year, alongside internal training and shadowing opportunities.

• Company sick pay scheme (post-probation).

• Cycle to work scheme.

• CIEEM membership fees covered, plus support for membership upgrades.

• Payment for NE survey licence renewals and required vaccinations.

• Access to company and/or hire vehicles, with business mileage reimbursement.

• Company laptop and iPhone.

• Full PPE provided.

How to Apply

If you are a driven Senior Ecologist looking to make a meaningful impact in a dynamic consultancy, we’d love to hear from you! Apply today to join a company committed to delivering innovative, sustainable, and high-quality ecological solutions.