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, and strong emphasis on professional development.
- Other info: Supportive environment with excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on biodiversity and work with a collaborative team.
- Qualifications: Degree in Ecology, consultancy experience, and strong project management skills.
The predicted salary is between 37000 - 55000 £ per year.
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 - Portsmouth employer: Advance TRS
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.
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, 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 land an interview, make sure to highlight your project management experience and technical skills. Bring examples of your work, like reports or assessments, to showcase your expertise. We want to see how you can lead ecological projects and contribute to sustainability!
✨Tailor Your Approach
Every job is different, so tailor your pitch for each opportunity. Research the company and its projects, and align your experience with their needs. This shows that you're not just looking for any job, but that you're genuinely interested in what they do.
✨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 love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly 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 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. Share your passion for ecology and how your experience aligns with our focus on sustainability and nature-based solutions.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:We love seeing candidates who can produce high-quality technical reports. Mention any experience you have with BNG assessments, ecological surveys, or working within multidisciplinary teams. This will demonstrate your capability to deliver robust project solutions.
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 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, manage client relationships, and deliver high-quality technical reports. This is crucial as the role involves overseeing a variety of projects, so demonstrating your organisational skills will set you apart.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Since the role requires working closely with specialists across various disciplines, be ready to talk about your experience in multidisciplinary teams. Share examples of how you’ve collaborated with engineers, landscape architects, or other professionals to achieve project goals. This shows you can thrive in a team-oriented environment.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company’s approach to sustainability and nature-based solutions. This not only demonstrates your interest in the role but also gives you a chance to assess if the company’s values align with yours. It’s a great way to engage with the interviewers and leave a lasting impression.