At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead ecological projects and deliver innovative environmental solutions across diverse habitats.
- Company: Dynamic environmental consultancy focused on sustainability and nature-based solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, professional development, and career progression.
- Other info: Join a supportive environment that values diversity and employee growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on ecology while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.
- Qualifications: Degree in Ecology, consultancy experience, and strong project management skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Advance TRS is supporting a growing environmental consultancy in the search for a Senior or Principal Ecologist to join their expanding ecology team. 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
The following experience would be beneficial but is not essential:
- 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. The role is available across multiple South Coast / South East office locations.
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 - Bristol employer: Advance TRS
Advance TRS is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and supportive work environment for ecologists passionate about sustainability and nature-based solutions. With a strong emphasis on professional development and flexible working arrangements, employees are encouraged to grow their careers while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams on impactful ecological projects across the South Coast and South East England. The company values diversity and fosters a culture of inclusivity, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment in the environmental consultancy sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior / Principal Ecologist - Bristol
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the ecology field! Attend industry events, join online forums, and engage on social media. The more you network, the better your chances of hearing about job openings before they even hit the market.
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your project management experience and technical skills. Share specific examples of your work, especially those related to Biodiversity Net Gain and ecological assessments. We want to see how you can contribute to our projects!
✨Tailor Your Approach
Every company is different, so tailor your conversations to match their values and projects. Research the consultancy’s recent work and mention how your experience aligns with their goals. This shows that you’re genuinely interested and ready to jump in!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply through our website for the best chance at landing that role! It streamlines the process and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to reach out directly!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior / Principal Ecologist - Bristol
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:We want to see your technical prowess! Include examples of your experience with BNG assessments, ecological surveys, and report writing. This will help us understand your capabilities and how you can contribute to our projects.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows us you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Advance TRS
✨Know Your Ecology Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of UK ecological legislation, planning policy, and licensing requirements. Be prepared to discuss specific projects you've worked on, especially those involving Biodiversity Net Gain assessments or protected species surveys.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Since the role involves managing ecological projects from start to finish, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully led projects in the past. Highlight your experience with client relationships and how you’ve navigated challenges during project delivery.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to answer technical questions related to ecological surveys, assessments, and mitigation strategies. Practise explaining complex concepts in a clear and concise manner, as you'll need to produce high-quality technical reports.
✨Demonstrate Your Collaborative Spirit
This role requires working closely with multidisciplinary teams, so be prepared to discuss how you've collaborated with other specialists in the past. Share examples that showcase your strong communication skills and ability to engage stakeholders effectively.
