Senior Ecologist

The successful candidate will work across a varied portfolio of projects throughout the South and South East, with a flexible working arrangement that includes site-based surveys, home working, and occasional time in a local office. This role offers a clear pathway for career progression, with opportunities to develop technical expertise and move towards a Principal Ecologist position.

This role is ideal for an experienced ecologist seeking to balance hands-on fieldwork with leadership responsibilities. You will take ownership of small to medium-sized ecological projects while contributing to more complex assessments alongside senior colleagues. The position also involves mentoring junior team members and supporting clients through the planning and development process.

As a Senior Ecologist, your key responsibilities will include:

• Leading habitat and protected species surveys across the South East.
• Managing small to medium-scale ecological projects, ensuring timely and high-quality delivery.
• Preparing technical reports, including Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEA), Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA), and protected species reports.
• Supporting Environmental Statement chapters and complex ecological assessments.
• Conducting UK Habitat Classification, habitat condition assessments, and Phase 1 habitat surveys.
• Providing expert ecological advice to clients, project teams, and stakeholders.
• Managing project budgets, timelines, and deliverables.
• Contributing to tenders, fee proposals, and other business development activities.
• Building and maintaining strong client relationships.
• Mentoring and supporting the technical development of junior ecologists.
• Collaborating with the wider ecology team on larger, multidisciplinary projects.

To be successful in this role, you will need:

• Proven experience in ecological consultancy or a similar professional environment.
• A degree or postgraduate qualification in ecology, environmental science, or a related field.
• Full or Associate membership of CIEEM (or eligibility to work towards this).
• Strong botanical skills, including experience with UK Habitat Classification, condition assessments, or Phase 1 surveys.
• Experience preparing PEA, EcIA, and protected species survey reports.
• Demonstrated expertise in leading protected species surveys (e.g., bats, dormice, great crested newts, otters, water voles, or birds).
• At least one protected species survey licence in England or Wales, or advanced botanical expertise (e.g., FISC Level 4 or above).
• Comprehensive knowledge of UK ecology legislation, planning policy, and environmental guidance.
• Experience managing projects, liaising with clients, and meeting deadlines.
• A proven track record in contributing to bids, tenders, or fee proposals.
• A full UK driving licence and the flexibility to travel for fieldwork, including occasional overnight stays.

Your typical day may include:

• Conducting field surveys to assess habitats and protected species.
• Preparing detailed ecological reports and assessments.
• Managing project timelines, budgets, and deliverables.
• Liaising with clients, stakeholders, and project teams to provide expert ecological advice.
• Mentoring and supporting junior team members in their professional development.
• Collaborating with colleagues on complex, multidisciplinary projects.
• Contributing to business development activities, including preparing tenders and fee proposals.

The successful candidate will join a supportive and collaborative ecology team, with access to ongoing training and development opportunities to support long-term career progression. Additional benefits include:

• Private medical insurance.
• Access to mental health first aiders.
• Income protection.
• A comprehensive package designed to support your wellbeing and career development.

If you are an experienced ecologist looking to take the next step in your career, this is an excellent opportunity to join a leading consultancy and make a meaningful impact in the field of environmental conservation.