Senior Ecologist

Overview

Our client, a forward-thinking built environment consultancy, is seeking a Senior Ecologist to join their expanding Nature and Biodiversity team in Manchester. This is an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping ecological outcomes across a diverse portfolio of UK projects, ranging from strategic urban regeneration to nature-based climate resilience initiatives with local authorities.

As part of a small, collaborative team, you will have the opportunity to ensure ecology has a strong voice in the early stages of design. The workload is focused on strategic and urban projects, meaning you will not typically be required to work antisocial hours or undertake large infrastructure survey commitments.

Responsibilities

As a Senior Ecologist, your key responsibilities will include:

• Conducting walkovers to identify ecological risks and opportunities.
• Preparing or overseeing the preparation of ecological reports and biodiversity net gain assessments.
• Managing projects, resources, and budgets efficiently.
• Supporting and mentoring junior colleagues to promote professional growth.
• Advising on habitat restoration, green infrastructure, and nature-based solutions.
• Contributing to client workshops and design team discussions.
• Supporting bids, fee proposals, and wider marketing activities.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will possess the following skills and experience:

• Proven experience within UK ecological consultancy and a strong working knowledge of protected species legislation.
• Competence in UK Habitat surveys and condition assessments.
• Strong report writing skills, including PEAs, EcIAs, EIA chapters, and management plans.
• Experience applying the Biodiversity Net Gain metric.
• Clear communication skills and confidence in leading discussions with clients and designers.
• A passion for coaching junior staff and promoting best practices.
• Associate or Full membership of CIEEM (or working towards).

Day-to-Day

In this role, you can expect to:

• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to integrate ecological considerations into project designs.
• Conduct site visits and ecological assessments to identify risks and opportunities.
• Prepare high-quality reports and assessments to support planning applications and project delivery.
• Provide expert advice on biodiversity net gain, habitat restoration, and sustainable design solutions.
• Mentor and support junior team members, fostering a culture of learning and development.
• Engage with clients and stakeholders to deliver innovative and practical ecological solutions.

Benefits

Our client offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• 25 days’ holiday plus bank holidays.
• Hybrid working arrangements to support work-life balance.
• Private medical cover.
• Company pension and life assurance.
• Income protection.
• Flexible benefits, including a cycle scheme and travel cover.
• Early finish at 3pm on the last Friday of each month.

If you are an experienced ecologist looking to make a meaningful impact on a variety of exciting projects, we encourage you to apply for this rewarding opportunity. Join a team where your expertise will help shape the future of sustainable development and biodiversity in the UK.