Senior/Principal Ecologist

Ocean to Earth Recruitment is working with an established and highly respected environmental consultancy seeking experienced Senior and Principal Ecologists to join their growing team. This is an exciting opportunity for ecologists with at least 4–5 years’ experience who are looking to progress their careers and work on a wide variety of projects across the UK.

You will have strong technical skills in at least one of the following areas: botany/habitat surveying, biodiversity net gain, or bat ecology (Level 2 bat licence holders encouraged to apply). The role offers exposure to projects across multiple sectors, including residential, urban regeneration, utilities infrastructure, commercial and leisure developments, as well as biodiversity net gain off-site delivery, green infrastructure, conservation and restoration schemes, and strategic-level initiatives.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Leading and contributing to a diverse range of ecological projects, from field survey and assessment to reporting and client liaison.

• Supervising field staff and coordinating multidisciplinary project teams.

• Supporting clients through planning and licensing processes with practical, expert advice.

• Monitoring project budgets and contributing to fee proposals.

• Ensuring high-quality, professional delivery across all aspects of your work.

Why Join This Team?

• Work within a close-knit ecology team of 40+ professionals, with a strong culture of knowledge sharing and mentoring.

• Benefit from structured and informal CPD opportunities, supporting career development towards protected species licences or Chartered status.

• Join a practice recognised for delivering high professional standards and positive outcomes for biodiversity.

• Enjoy a supportive environment that encourages leadership, management skills, and career progression.

The Ideal Candidate

• Degree or equivalent in ecology or related discipline.

• Membership of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM).

• Proven experience in scoping, designing, pricing, and delivering ecological surveys in a development/planning context.

• Strong project management skills, with the ability to communicate effectively and collaborate with colleagues, clients, planners, and regulators.

• Experience producing desk studies, Preliminary Ecological Assessments, Ecological Impact Assessments, and habitat/species mitigation or management plans.

• Desirable: experience authoring ecology chapters for Environmental Statements or HRAs, protected species licences (particularly Level 2 bat), FISC Level 4+ botanical surveys, and Biodiversity Net Gain assessment.

• Able to work independently and collaboratively, supporting the development of colleagues’ skills.

• Full driving licence and access to a vehicle.

How to Apply

If you are passionate about ecology, eager to make a difference, and want to work with a forward-thinking environmental consultancy, Ocean to Earth Recruitment would love to hear from you. Please send your CV and a cover letter through our website for consideration.