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- 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.
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
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.
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 in Haywards Heath employer: Advance TRS
Contact Detail:
Advance TRS Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior / Principal Ecologist in Haywards Heath
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with other ecologists and professionals in the field. Attend industry events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your experience with Biodiversity Net Gain assessments and project management. Bring examples of your work to the conversation – it’ll help you stand out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on UK ecological legislation and planning policies. Be ready to discuss how you’ve applied this knowledge in past projects. The more confident you are in your expertise, the more likely you are to impress!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’re always looking for talented individuals to join our team. Make sure your application reflects your collaborative spirit and passion for sustainability – that’s what we love to see!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior / Principal Ecologist in Haywards Heath
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior / Principal Ecologist role. Highlight your consultancy experience, project management skills, and any relevant qualifications. We want to see how your background aligns with our focus on sustainability and nature-based solutions.
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 you can contribute to our multidisciplinary team. Be sure to mention specific projects or experiences that relate to the job description.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: When filling out your application, don’t forget to showcase your technical skills, especially in producing high-quality reports and conducting Biodiversity Net Gain assessments. We love candidates who can demonstrate their expertise clearly and confidently.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
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 communicate effectively with both specialists and clients.
✨Demonstrate Your Collaborative Spirit
This role requires working closely with multidisciplinary teams, so be prepared to discuss how you've collaborated with other professionals in the past. Share examples that showcase your ability to contribute to team success and mentor junior colleagues.