As a Principal Ecologist, you will play a pivotal role in leading the delivery of high-quality ecological projects, mentoring a talented team of ecologists, and contributing to the growth of the consultancy’s presence in the region. This role is ideal for a professional who thrives on balancing technical excellence with client engagement and business development.
You will work collaboratively with colleagues across ecology, landscape, arboriculture, and other environmental disciplines, supporting a diverse range of projects from initial advisory stages through to successful delivery.
This position also offers a 4-day working week on full-time pay , providing an excellent opportunity to achieve a better work-life balance while advancing your career in a senior ecology role.
Responsibilities
- Lead ecological projects across a diverse portfolio, including development, infrastructure, and environmental schemes.
- Oversee project delivery, ensuring technical quality, budget adherence, and client satisfaction.
- Provide senior-level input on ecological constraints, mitigation, enhancement, and planning strategies.
- Prepare and review Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEA), Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA), and Habitats Regulations Assessments (HRA).
- Support Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments and habitat-led project work.
- Oversee protected species surveys, licensing, and mitigation strategies.
- Act as a senior technical reviewer for reports, assessments, and client deliverables.
- Manage relationships with clients, local planning authorities, and statutory consultees.
- Contribute to bids, tenders, and business development activities to grow the consultancy’s ecology workload in Bristol and the wider region.
- Mentor, support, and develop ecologists at various stages of their careers.
- Collaborate with other technical teams to deliver integrated environmental advice.
Qualifications
- A degree or equivalent qualification in ecology, biological sciences, or a related field.
- Extensive experience in ecological consultancy or a similar professional setting.
- In-depth knowledge of UK ecology legislation, planning policy, and industry guidance.
- Proven experience leading ecological inputs on complex or multidisciplinary projects.
- Strong project management skills, including budget, deadline, and quality control responsibilities.
- Proficiency in preparing, reviewing, and signing off ecological reports.
- Confident survey skills, including UK Habitat Classification and protected species surveys.
- Experience with Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), EcIA, PEA, and HRA work.
- Full membership of CIEEM (or working towards this level).
- Protected species licences (advantageous).
- Experience liaising with clients, planning authorities, and statutory bodies.
- A commercial mindset with experience in proposals, tenders, or client development.
- Proven ability to mentor and develop junior team members.
- A collaborative approach with the confidence to work across multiple technical disciplines.
- A full UK driving licence.
Day-to-Day
- Lead and manage ecological projects, ensuring high-quality delivery and client satisfaction.
- Conduct and oversee ecological surveys, assessments, and mitigation strategies.
- Provide expert advice on ecological constraints, planning strategies, and biodiversity enhancements.
- Review and approve technical reports and deliverables.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver integrated environmental solutions.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, stakeholders, and regulatory bodies.
- Support the professional development of team members through mentoring and training.
- Contribute to business development activities, including preparing bids and proposals.
Benefits
- 4-day working week on full-time pay , promoting a healthy work-life balance.
- Opportunity to lead and shape the growth of a successful and well-established consultancy team.
- Work on a diverse range of meaningful and impactful ecological projects.
- Collaborative and supportive work environment with multidisciplinary teams.
- Professional development opportunities, including mentoring and training.
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- Chance to make a tangible difference in the South West’s ecological landscape.
If you are a passionate and experienced ecologist looking to take the next step in your career, this is your opportunity to lead, inspire, and make a lasting impact. Join a consultancy that values innovation, collaboration, and sustainability.
