Job Advertisement: Senior Ecologist
Overview
We are representing a well-established multi-disciplinary consultancy that is seeking to appoint a Senior Ecologist to play a pivotal role in developing their ecology presence in Sheffield.
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced consultancy ecologist who thrives on autonomy, responsibility, and the chance to shape and grow a local ecology function. You will be supported by a wider, well-resourced ecology team across the business.
Responsibilities
As a Senior Ecologist, you will:
- Lead ecological projects from early planning stages through to delivery.
- Coordinate and conduct protected species and habitat surveys.
- Prepare and oversee Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs), Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIAs), Habitat Regulations Assessments (HRAs), and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments.
- Act as the primary point of contact for clients and stakeholders.
- Support the recruitment, mentoring, and development of junior ecologists.
- Collaborate with landscape architecture and masterplanning colleagues to influence integrated project design and planning outcomes.
Qualifications
We are looking for a confident and proactive ecologist with strong consultancy experience who enjoys combining technical expertise with leadership and client engagement.
You will bring:
- A degree in ecology, biology, or a related discipline.
- Proven experience in delivering protected species surveys, including holding relevant licences.
- Strong habitat survey and botanical skills, including UKHab.
- Comprehensive knowledge of UK wildlife legislation and planning processes.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Proficiency in QGIS and Microsoft Office.
- Membership of CIEEM at Associate level or above.
- A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.
Additional specialisms, bat licences, or FISC accreditation would be advantageous but are not essential.
Day-to-Day
Your day-to-day responsibilities will include:
- Managing and delivering ecological surveys and assessments.
- Engaging with clients and stakeholders to provide expert advice and updates.
- Collaborating with multi-disciplinary teams to deliver integrated project outcomes.
- Mentoring and supporting junior team members to develop their skills and expertise.
- Preparing high-quality reports and documentation to support planning applications.
- Ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and best practices in all ecological work.
Benefits
This role offers a competitive package, including:
- A salary typically ranging from £40,000 to £45,000, depending on experience.
- Permanent, full-time employment.
- Hybrid working arrangements with flexibility around core hours.
- Paid overtime for out-of-hours survey work.
- A bonus scheme linked to company and individual performance.
- Generous annual leave allowance, increasing with service.
- Pension contributions that grow over time.
- A strong commitment to professional development and training opportunities.
- Paid professional subscriptions and licence fees.
- A supportive working culture with a clear focus on employee wellbeing.
The Opportunity
Based in Sheffield, this role will serve as the focal point for ecological delivery in the region. You will have the opportunity to lead projects, collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams, and contribute to integrated design and planning outcomes.
This position offers clear scope for progression and is ideal for someone looking to step into a more influential role with long-term development in mind.
If you are a motivated and experienced ecologist ready to take the next step in your career, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity.
