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- Tasks: Lead diverse ecological projects and mentor junior ecologists in a dynamic consultancy.
- Company: Forward-thinking ecological consultancy with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Flexible working, competitive salary, professional development, and generous leave.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the environment while enjoying work-life balance.
- Qualifications: Minimum four years' experience in ecological consultancy and relevant degree.
- Other info: Join a supportive team with excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 54000 £ per year.
An opportunity has arisen for an experienced Senior Ecologist to join a well-established and growing environmental consultancy. Based primarily in Leeds, with consideration for applicants in the Bolsover area, this role offers the chance to lead a diverse range of ecological projects across the UK. The successful candidate will independently manage projects from inception to completion, providing technical leadership, mentoring junior team members, and contributing to the continued growth and success of the business. You will play a key role in delivering high-quality ecological assessments and providing expert advice to clients and stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and manage ecological projects to high technical standards, on time and within budget
- Design and deliver a range of protected species and habitat surveys
- Prepare and review PEAs, EcIAs, BNG Assessments, HRAs, and ES chapters
- Produce tenders, proposals, and costings for new work
- Advise on ecological legislation, planning policy, and mitigation strategies
- Liaise with clients, statutory bodies, and project stakeholders
- Mentor and support junior ecologists
- Work flexibly, including occasional evenings during survey season (April–September)
The Company:
A dynamic and forward-thinking ecological consultancy working across a wide range of habitats and sectors throughout the UK. The business is known for its collaborative culture, technical excellence, and commitment to employee wellbeing. Staff are encouraged to pursue professional interests, supported by structured CPD, training, and flexible working arrangements.
The Candidate:
- Minimum of four years’ experience in ecological consultancy
- Degree in Ecology or a related environmental discipline (or equivalent)
- CIEEM Associate membership (Full Member preferred)
- Proven experience managing ecological projects from start to finish
- Strong understanding of UK planning and ecological legislation
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Experience writing PEAs, EcIAs, BNG assessments, and ES chapters
- Skilled in protected species and/or habitat surveys, with one or more survey licences (e.g., bats, badgers, botany, ornithology)
- Competent user of GIS software (e.g., QGIS/QField)
- Full, clean UK driving licence and access to own vehicle
- Flexible approach to working hours during survey season
Desirable:
- Specialist knowledge in bats (including tree climbing), badgers, botany, or ornithology
- Experience mentoring junior staff
- Holder of or working towards a mitigation licence (e.g., BMCL)
The Package:
- Salary £30,000 – £45,000 per annum DOE
- Flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance
- Paid overtime or TOIL for out of hours survey work
- Ongoing CPD and professional development support
- Paid professional memberships and licence renewals
- Employer pension contributions
- Generous annual leave, with additional leave for long service
- Discretionary performance-related bonus
- Regular company funded social events and team activities
- Office closure during the Christmas period
Senior Ecologist – Leeds - £45,000 + Flexible Working Available + Benefits employer: Agricultural Recruitment Specialists
Contact Detail:
Agricultural Recruitment Specialists Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Ecologist – Leeds - £45,000 + Flexible Working Available + Benefits
✨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 project management experience and any unique ecological surveys you've led. Bring your A-game and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere—apply through our website! We’ve got a streamlined process that makes it easy for you to showcase your talents. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at StudySmarter.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of UK ecological legislation and planning policies. Be ready to discuss how you’ve navigated these in past projects. Confidence is key, so practice your responses and come prepared with questions for them too!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Ecologist – Leeds - £45,000 + Flexible Working Available + Benefits
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Ecologist role. Highlight your relevant experience, especially in managing ecological projects and any specific skills that match the job description. We want to see how you can bring your unique expertise to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about ecology and how your background aligns with our consultancy's goals. Be sure to mention any specific projects or achievements that demonstrate your capabilities.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since excellent written communication is key for this role, make sure your application is clear and concise. Use professional language but let your personality shine through. We love seeing candidates who can communicate effectively with clients and stakeholders!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details about the role and our company culture there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Agricultural Recruitment Specialists
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your ecological knowledge, especially regarding UK planning and ecological legislation. Be ready to discuss your experience with PEAs, EcIAs, and habitat surveys, as these are key aspects of the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this position involves mentoring junior ecologists, be prepared to share examples of how you've led projects or supported team members in the past. Highlight any specific instances where your guidance made a difference.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions that dive deep into your technical expertise. Review your past projects and be ready to explain your approach to managing them, including how you ensured they were completed on time and within budget.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility
Given the flexible working arrangements and the need for occasional evening work during survey season, express your willingness to adapt your schedule. Share any relevant experiences that showcase your ability to work flexibly and manage your time effectively.
