At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead ecological projects and deliver innovative environmental solutions.
- Company: Dynamic consultancy focused on sustainability and nature-based solutions.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, professional development, and supportive environment.
- Other info: Opportunities for career growth and mentoring junior ecologists.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on biodiversity and work with diverse teams.
- Qualifications: Degree in Ecology, consultancy experience, and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 37000 - 55000 £ per year.
Location: Haywards Heath (Hybrid Working Available)
Salary: £37,000 – £55,000 depending on grade / experience
Type: Permanent, Full-Time
This opportunity would suit an experienced consultant looking to take on a leading role across a broad range of ecology and environmental projects, while working within a collaborative multidisciplinary environment focused on sustainability, resilience and nature-based solutions.
The Role
The successful candidate will lead and support the delivery of ecological projects across a varied portfolio including habitat restoration, Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), river and catchment-based schemes, protected species work and wider environmental planning projects. Working closely with specialists across engineering, landscape, geomorphology and environmental disciplines, you will contribute to technically robust and practical project solutions from early-stage assessment through to delivery.
Typical responsibilities will include:
- Managing ecological projects from inception through to completion
- Delivering and reviewing ecological surveys, assessments and mitigation strategies
- Leading Biodiversity Net Gain assessments and habitat-based reporting
- Producing high-quality technical reports including PEAs, EcIAs and HRAs
- Supporting client relationships and contributing to project development discussions
- Mentoring junior ecologists and supporting team growth
- Assisting with tender submissions, quotations and wider business development activities
- Collaborating within multidisciplinary teams on large and complex environmental projects
Candidate Requirements
Advance TRS is looking to speak with ecologists who combine strong technical capability with commercial awareness and a collaborative approach to consultancy delivery. Candidates should demonstrate:
- Consultancy experience within ecology and environmental assessment
- Experience managing projects, programmes and client relationships
- Strong understanding of UK ecological legislation, planning policy and licensing requirements
- Experience delivering BNG assessments using UKHab and biodiversity metrics
- Protected species survey experience, ideally with survey licences
- Ability to produce accurate and well-structured technical reports
- Confidence working independently and within multidisciplinary teams
- Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills
Qualifications & Experience
- Degree in Ecology or a related discipline
- Membership of CIEEM or another relevant professional body
- Chartered status desirable, though candidates working towards chartership are encouraged
- Full UK driving licence required
Desirable Experience
- River restoration or natural flood management projects
- Aquatic, estuarine or coastal ecology
- Water Framework Directive (WFD) understanding
- Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) experience
- GIS and ecological mapping capability
- Experience working on large infrastructure or multidisciplinary projects
Working Arrangements & Benefits
This position offers hybrid working with a mixture of office, home and site-based activity. The consultancy places a strong emphasis on professional development, flexible working and long-term career progression within a supportive, employee-focused environment. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
Senior / Principal Ecologist – Portsmouth employer: Advance Training & Recruitment Services
Advance TRS is an exceptional employer for ecologists seeking to make a meaningful impact in the field of environmental consultancy. With a strong focus on sustainability and collaboration, employees benefit from hybrid working arrangements, professional development opportunities, and a supportive culture that values diversity and fosters long-term career growth. Join us in Portsmouth to lead innovative ecological projects while working alongside a multidisciplinary team dedicated to nature-based solutions.
Contact Details:
Advance Training & Recruitment Services Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior / Principal Ecologist – Portsmouth
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the ecology field! Attend industry events, join online forums, or even hit up LinkedIn. The more you engage with others, the better your chances of hearing about job openings before they’re even advertised.
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, don’t hold back! Share your experiences managing ecological projects and your success with Biodiversity Net Gain assessments. We want to see how you can contribute to our multidisciplinary teams!
✨Tailor Your Approach
Every job is different, so make sure you tailor your conversations to highlight the skills that match the role. If it’s about river restoration or protected species work, bring those experiences to the forefront. We love seeing candidates who can align their expertise with our needs!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for passionate ecologists ready to take on exciting projects with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior / Principal Ecologist – Portsmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. Highlight your consultancy experience, project management skills, and any relevant ecological qualifications to show us you're the right fit.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about ecology and how your background aligns with our focus on sustainability and nature-based solutions. Keep it engaging and personal!
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Since we’re looking for someone with strong technical capabilities, be sure to include examples of your work with BNG assessments, ecological surveys, and report writing. This will help us see your expertise in action.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates during the process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Advance Training & Recruitment Services
✨Know Your Ecology Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of UK ecological legislation and planning policy. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on, especially those involving Biodiversity Net Gain assessments or protected species surveys. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but have practical experience too.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Prepare examples of how you've managed ecological projects from start to finish. Highlight your ability to lead teams and collaborate with other specialists. Discuss any challenges you faced and how you overcame them, as this demonstrates your problem-solving skills and resilience.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Strong communication is key in this role, so practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Be prepared to explain complex ecological concepts in simple terms, especially when discussing your technical reports. This will help you connect with interviewers and showcase your stakeholder engagement skills.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Sustainability
Since the role focuses on sustainability and nature-based solutions, share your enthusiasm for these topics. Talk about any relevant projects or initiatives you've been involved in that align with these values. This will show that you're not just looking for a job, but are genuinely invested in making a positive impact.
