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- Tasks: Lead ecological surveys and author reports for diverse projects across the East of England.
- Company: Join a well-established consultancy focused on renewable energy and infrastructure.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours, TOIL, and access to professional training programmes.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on biodiversity while working in a supportive and balanced environment.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's/Master's in Ecology, CIEEM Membership, and protected species survey license preferred.
- Other info: Opportunity to work on interesting projects with a network of knowledgeable professionals.
Associate Ecologist
Find out more about this role by reading the information below, then apply to be considered.
Salary: £55,000+ DOE
Location: Cambridge (hybrid / field-based)
Our client is a leading environmental consultancy delivering applied ecology, biodiversity, and sustainability services across the UK. Due to continued growth, they are seeking an experienced Associate Ecologist to join their Cambridge-based team.
This is a senior-level role offering the opportunity to lead high-profile ecological projects, influence technical direction, and play a key role in the growth and development of the ecology team.
The Role
The Associate Ecologist will take responsibility for managing and delivering complex ecological projects while providing technical leadership across the team. You will work closely with senior leadership and key clients to ensure consistently high standards of delivery.
You will:
Lead ecological projects from proposal through to completion
Provide technical oversight, mentoring, and quality assurance
Manage client relationships and support business development
Contribute to the strategic growth of the ecology function
Provide expert input into assessment, licensing, and mitigation
Key Responsibilities
Delivery and review of PEAs, EcIAs, HRAs, and BNG assessments
Advising on protected species, habitats, and legislation
Designing and overseeing surveys and mitigation strategies
Supporting recruitment, training, and performance management
Representing the ecology team internally and externally
About You
You will be an experienced applied ecologist with strong consultancy and leadership capability.
You will ideally have:
A degree (or higher) in ecology or a related discipline
Significant experience xiskglj in UK ecological consultancy
CIEEM membership (or working towards it)
A track record of managing projects and clients
Strong knowledge of UK planning and wildlife legislation
Protected species licence(s) (desirable but not essential)
What\’s on Offer
£55,000+ depending on experience
Hybrid working from Cambridge
Clear progression to Principal / Director level
Ongoing professional development and chartership support
High-quality projects with real environmental impact
Please contact James Hardie at Penguin Recruitment
Senior Ecologist employer: Penguin Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Penguin Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Ecologist
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the ecology field, especially those who are already working in consultancy roles. Attend relevant conferences or workshops to meet potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends in ecological assessments.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific ecological services that the consultancy offers, particularly in relation to renewable energy and infrastructure projects. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your understanding of their work during any informal discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Consider reaching out to current employees on platforms like LinkedIn to gain insights into the company culture and expectations for the Senior Ecologist role. This can also help you tailor your approach when you apply.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on recent developments in biodiversity legislation and ecological assessment methodologies. Being knowledgeable about current regulations will position you as a strong candidate who is ready to tackle the challenges of the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Ecologist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in ecology, particularly any work related to protected species surveys and ecological assessments. Use keywords from the job description to demonstrate your fit for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for ecology and your understanding of the responsibilities outlined in the job description. Mention specific projects or experiences that align with the company's focus on renewable energy and biodiversity.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly list your academic qualifications, including your degree in Ecology or related fields, and any relevant certifications such as CIEEM membership or protected species survey licenses. This will help you stand out as a qualified candidate.
Showcase Your Skills: In your application, emphasise your skills in UK Habitat Classification, ecological mitigation, and report writing. Provide examples of how you've successfully completed similar tasks in previous roles to demonstrate your capability.
How to prepare for a job interview at Penguin Recruitment
✨Know Your Ecology
Brush up on your knowledge of UK Habitat Classification and protected species. Be prepared to discuss your experience with specific surveys and assessments, as well as any relevant licenses you hold.
✨Showcase Your Reports
Bring examples of your previous ecology reports, such as PEA or EcIA. This will demonstrate your ability to author comprehensive documents and provide insight into your practical experience.
✨Discuss Mitigation Strategies
Be ready to talk about your experience in designing and delivering ecological mitigation. Highlight any projects where you've successfully implemented solutions for protected species licensing or acted as an Ecological Clerk of Works.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Wellbeing
Since the company values diverse ideas and work-life balance, share examples of how you've collaborated with teams and contributed to a positive workplace culture in your previous roles.
