Principal Ecologist – Derby

Job Reference: 55736
Salary: £41,000 – £55,000 DOE
Location: Derby
Closing Date: 12th November 2026

The Opportunity

Ready to lead a team rather than simply manage projects?

We're working with an established organisation looking for an experienced Principal Ecologist to take a leading role within its Derby team.

This is an opportunity to step into a position where you'll have genuine influence over people, projects and the future direction of the team.

Rather than building a team from scratch, you'll be joining an experienced, high-performing group of professionals, with the opportunity to develop their capabilities, strengthen project delivery and help take the team forward.

The role offers a combination of technical leadership, team management and client engagement, making it particularly appealing to someone who enjoys both the technical and commercial aspects of ecology.

What You'll Be Doing

• Leading and developing a team of Ecologists, providing guidance, mentoring and technical support.

• Managing workloads and resources to ensure projects are delivered effectively.

• Overseeing ecological projects, maintaining technical quality and meeting agreed deadlines.

• Providing specialist ecological advice on challenging environmental and development issues.

• Reviewing technical reports, assessments and recommendations.

• Working closely with clients and colleagues to deliver practical ecological solutions.

• Supporting project planning, budgets and overall team performance.

• Identifying opportunities to strengthen client relationships and develop new work.

What We're Looking For

We're interested in hearing from experienced Ecologists who are confident managing projects and supporting others.

Ideally, you'll have:

• A degree in Ecology, Environmental Science or a related discipline.

• Significant experience working within ecological consultancy or a similar environment.

• Strong knowledge of ecological assessment, environmental legislation and planning requirements.

• Experience managing ecological projects and coordinating resources.

• Excellent technical reporting and communication skills.

• Experience mentoring or managing other Ecologists.

• The confidence to engage with clients and provide technical advice.

• A collaborative approach and an interest in developing a successful team.

Professional membership, such as CIEEM, and experience delivering larger or more complex projects would be advantageous.

What's on Offer?

Salary: £41,000 – £55,000, depending on experience.

Alongside the salary, you'll receive a competitive benefits package designed to support your professional development and work-life balance.

This includes:

• Company car or car allowance.

• Generous annual leave with options for additional holiday.

• Employer pension contributions.

• Financial protection and employee wellbeing benefits.

• Professional membership support.

• Ongoing training and career development.

• Additional flexible benefits.

Why Consider This Role?

If you're currently working at Senior or Principal level and feel ready for a position with greater leadership responsibility, this could be an excellent next move.

You'll have the chance to lead an established team, influence how work is delivered and contribute to the long-term success of the ecology function.

With an experienced team around you and a broad range of projects, this is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact while continuing to develop your own career.

Interested?

If you'd like to find out more, contact Embankment Group for a confidential discussion or apply directly through our website.

Job Reference: 55736
Closing Date: 12th November 2026