Senior Ecologist

Overview

Our client, a specialist consultancy known for its commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship, is seeking to appoint a Senior Ecologist to join their team in Bath. This is an exciting opportunity to take on a role with significant influence across a diverse workload, focusing on strategic, design-led projects. Unlike roles that require extensive out-of-hours surveys or major infrastructure schemes, this position emphasizes meaningful contributions to biodiversity and nature-based climate resilience.

As part of a close-knit Nature and Biodiversity team, you will play a pivotal role in advising on biodiversity net gain, habitat priorities, and nature-based solutions.

Responsibilities

As a Senior Ecologist, your key responsibilities will include:

• Conducting ecological walkovers and early-stage site assessments.
• Preparing, reviewing, and coordinating ecological reports and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments.
• Managing project timelines, budgets, and client expectations.
• Supporting the development and growth of junior colleagues.
• Providing expert guidance on green infrastructure, habitat creation, and resilience measures.
• Collaborating within multidisciplinary design sessions to deliver innovative solutions.
• Assisting with fee proposals and promotional material to support business development.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will possess the following skills and experience:

• Professional experience in UK ecological consultancy with a strong understanding of relevant legislation.
• Proficiency in UK Habitat surveys and condition assessments.
• Experience in preparing Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs), Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIAs), Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) ecology chapters, and management plans.
• Working knowledge of Biodiversity Net Gain and the statutory metric.
• Strong report writing and communication skills.
• A proactive and collaborative approach to working with clients and design teams.
• Membership of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) at Associate or Full level.

Day-to-Day

In this role, your day-to-day activities will include:

• Conducting site visits and ecological assessments.
• Preparing detailed ecological reports and assessments to inform project designs.
• Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to integrate biodiversity and resilience measures into projects.
• Mentoring and supporting junior team members to enhance their skills and knowledge.
• Engaging with clients to provide expert advice and ensure project success.
• Contributing to the preparation of proposals and promotional materials to support the consultancy’s growth.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive benefits package, including:

• 25 days’ holiday plus bank holidays.
• Hybrid working arrangements to support work-life balance.
• Private health cover.
• Pension and life assurance schemes.
• Income protection.
• A range of flexible benefits tailored to your needs.
• An early-finish benefit on the final Friday of each month.

If you are an experienced ecologist with a passion for biodiversity and sustainability, and you are looking for a role that allows you to make a meaningful impact, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Join a team that values innovation, collaboration, and environmental stewardship.