Senior, Principal and Associate Ecologists

Ocean to Earth Recruitment is excited to represent a dynamic and forward-thinking ecological consultancy based in rural East Sussex, just north of Lewes. Established in 2021, this small but rapidly growing company is seeking experienced ecologists to join their innovative and collaborative team.

We’re looking for talented, self-motivated professionals who thrive in a flexible, field-oriented environment and are ready to take on more senior responsibilities. If you have over 5 years of experience in ecological consultancy and want to be part of shaping a thriving practice, we’d love to hear from you.

About the Role

This is an opportunity to work with a technically focused and independent consultancy delivering pragmatic, expert advice across a diverse range of sectors, including tourism, residential, commercial, and infrastructure. Projects span the UK and involve clients from local consultancies to large national organisations, councils, and statutory agencies.

The team is particularly known for its industry-leading drone services, including aerial thermal surveys and large-scale habitat mapping.

Your role will include:

• Leading and managing ecological projects from inception to completion

• Conducting fieldwork and ecological surveys

• Providing reporting, client liaison, and follow-up consultancy

• Supporting biodiversity net gain planning and ecological design

• Working collaboratively within an experienced and committed team

What We’re Looking For

• Degree-qualified (or higher) in a relevant discipline

• At least 5 years’ experience in ecological consultancy

• Strong project management and client liaison capabilities

• Professional, self-driven and organised

• A passion for biodiversity and conservation

• Technically adept, with a desire for continuous professional development

• Strong field skills with the ability to deliver a range of ecological surveys and assessments

• Botanical ID skills to FISC Level 3 or 4 are advantageous

• Experience in EcIA and HRA desirable

• Survey and mitigation licences an advantage, but not essential

• A2CofC or GVC drone certification a bonus

• An interest in innovation and a desire to contribute to company culture and growth

What’s On Offer

• Salary: £35,000 – £50,000, dependent on experience (based on a 40-hour week)

• Work-Life Balance: A genuine 40-hour week with no expectation for long hours

• Holiday: 25 days annual leave plus all Bank Holidays

• Flexible Work: Balanced mix of field and office work, regardless of grade

• Training & Development: Generous CPD and training budgets, plus internal knowledge sharing

• Volunteer Days: Paid volunteer days each year

• Professional Support: Paid professional memberships and survey licences

• Bonus Scheme: Equitable and generous profit-related bonus structure

• Innovation: Opportunities to shape and grow your role within a high-growth consultancy

Ready to take the next step in your ecology career?
Contact Ocean to Earth Recruitment today to find out more or apply. We’d be happy to discuss this exciting opportunity with you confidentially.