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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: Experience in ecology, project management, and strong communication skills.
Location: Portsmouth (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 Portsmouth employer: Advance TRS
Contact Detail:
Advance TRS Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior / Principal Ecologist in Portsmouth
✨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. Share specific examples of your past work that demonstrate your expertise and how you can contribute to their projects.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on UK ecological legislation and planning policies. Be ready to discuss how you’ve navigated these in your previous roles. This will show that you’re not just knowledgeable but also ready to hit the ground running!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Let’s make your next career move a successful one!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior / Principal Ecologist in 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 catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for the Senior/Principal Ecologist role. Mention your passion for sustainability and how your experience aligns with our multidisciplinary approach.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: We love seeing candidates who can produce high-quality technical reports. Include examples of your work with Biodiversity Net Gain assessments or protected species surveys to demonstrate your expertise and attention to detail.
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 this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
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 ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on, especially those involving Biodiversity Net Gain assessments or protected species surveys.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience managing ecological projects from inception to completion. Talk about how you've led teams, mentored junior ecologists, and maintained strong client relationships throughout the project lifecycle.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly, especially when discussing technical reports like PEAs and EcIAs. Strong communication skills are key, so be prepared to engage in discussions about project development and stakeholder engagement.
✨Demonstrate Your Collaborative Spirit
Since this role involves working within multidisciplinary teams, think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with specialists from other fields. Highlight your ability to contribute to practical project solutions and your approach to teamwork.