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- Tasks: Lead a team of ecologists and drive business growth through innovative ecological solutions.
- Company: Join Southern Ecological Solutions, a top consultancy known for sustainable practices and client-focused services.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive salary, birthday leave, private medical insurance, and flexible benefits.
- Why this job: Shape the future of ecology while making a positive environmental impact in a supportive culture.
- Qualifications: Degree in ecology or related field with proven leadership and ecological expertise required.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to innovation and sustainability in Essex.
The predicted salary is between 39000 - 46000 £ per year.
Principal Ecologist
Are you an experienced ecologist looking for a new challenge within the ecology sector? Bring your expertise and knowledge to help us succeed.
About Southern Ecological Solutions (SES)
Southern Ecological Solutions is a trusted consultancy specialising in Ecology, Arboriculture, and Landscape Planning & Design. For over a decade, we have built a reputation for delivering pragmatic, innovative solutions to clients ranging from global corporations to private homeowners. SES is part of the RSK Group, a leading integrated environmental, engineering, and technical services business.
The Role
We are seeking an experienced Principal Ecologist for our Midlands team. This senior technical and client‑facing position requires strong consultancy experience and confidence leading complex projects, supporting team development and driving business growth.
Main Responsibilities
- Leading and managing complex ecological projects, including large-scale developments and infrastructure schemes
- Acting as the technical lead and reviewer for PEAs, EcIAs, HRAs, protected species mitigation strategies and BNG assessments
- Providing expert advice on ecology, legislation and planning policy (including NPPF and local policy)
- Supporting and mentoring ecologists at all levels, fostering technical excellence and career development
- Overseeing survey design, seasonal programming and risk management across multiple projects
- Building and maintaining strong client relationships, contributing to bids, tenders and fee proposals
- Supporting business development and representing SES at meetings, workshops and stakeholder forums
- Ensuring consistent quality, compliance and best practice across Midlands projects
Key Experience & Qualifications
Essential
- A degree (or equivalent) in ecology or a related discipline
- One or more protected species licences (e.g. bats, GCN)
- Extensive experience within a professional ecological consultancy
- Strong track record of delivering and reviewing complex technical reports
- In-depth knowledge of UK wildlife legislation, planning policy and guidance
Desirable
- Full or Chartered membership of CIEEM
- Strong botanical competence (FISC Level 4 or equivalent experience)
- Experience leading BNG assessments and advising on biodiversity strategies
- Experience contributing to bids, frameworks or strategic projects
Full UK driving licence and use of own vehicle required.
Personal Attributes
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, confidence in client‑facing roles, strong leadership, mentoring ability, proactive self‑starter, and ability to lead on a wide range of projects across the business.
Why Join Us
Competitive salary starting at £40 000 plus depending on experience, plus a wide range of company benefits.
Company Benefits
- Birthday Leave – a day off to celebrate your birthday in addition to annual leave
- Generous holiday allowance – start with 23 days of holiday (plus bank holidays), increasing by 1 day per year up to a maximum of 28 days
- Life assurance plan
- Hybrid working – flexible working from home, site and office with flexible working hours (role dependant)
- Private medical insurance
- Flexible benefits programme – options to buy additional holidays, health cash plans and discounted gym memberships
- Targeted CPD plan – support, and rapid progression for ambitious candidates
- Professional membership fees covered by the company
Application
Apply today or for any further information or queries about the role please do get in touch with the team today.
EEO Statement
We are an inclusive employer. We actively encourage applications from candidates of all genders, races, ethnicities, ages, neurotypes, religions or beliefs, sexual orientations and those with disabilities.
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Principal Ecologist employer: Southern Ecological Solutions (SES)
Contact Detail:
Southern Ecological Solutions (SES) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Ecologist
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the ecological consultancy field. Attend industry events, webinars, or local meetups to connect with potential colleagues and clients. Building relationships can lead to valuable insights and opportunities at SES.
✨Tip Number 2
Research Southern Ecological Solutions thoroughly. Understand their projects, values, and recent developments. This knowledge will help you tailor your conversations and demonstrate your genuine interest in contributing to their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership experiences in detail. Think of specific examples where you've successfully led a team or managed a project. Highlight how your approach aligns with SES's commitment to fostering a culture of excellence.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on ecological legislation and best practices. Being knowledgeable about current trends and regulations will not only impress during interviews but also show that you're proactive and ready to contribute from day one.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Ecologist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in ecological consultancy, leadership roles, and project management. Use specific examples that demonstrate your expertise in ecological principles and compliance with legislation.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for ecology and your vision for leading a team at SES. Mention how your background aligns with their mission and values, and provide examples of how you've driven business growth in previous roles.
Highlight Leadership Experience: In your application, emphasise your experience in leading teams and mentoring others. Provide concrete examples of how you've inspired your team to achieve high-quality results and fostered a culture of professional growth.
Showcase Strategic Vision: Demonstrate your understanding of the ecological consultancy landscape by discussing your strategic vision for the role. Include insights on how you would approach client development and project oversight to align with SES's goals.
How to prepare for a job interview at Southern Ecological Solutions (SES)
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Ecologist, you'll be expected to lead and inspire a team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, highlighting your mentoring abilities and how you've driven growth in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Ecological Expertise
Be ready to discuss your deep knowledge of ecological principles, legislation, and survey techniques. Bring specific examples of projects where you've applied this expertise, especially in habitat management and protected species.
✨Understand SES's Values and Goals
Research Southern Ecological Solutions thoroughly. Understand their mission, values, and recent projects. This will help you align your answers with their goals and demonstrate your genuine interest in contributing to their success.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
Expect questions about your strategic vision for ecological consultancy. Be prepared to discuss how you would approach business development and client relationships, showcasing your ability to identify new opportunities and provide tailored solutions.
