At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead ecology projects, conduct surveys, and mentor junior ecologists.
- Company: Dynamic environmental consultancy in Manchester with a strong growth trajectory.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, generous holiday, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with tailored career progression and regular team events.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainability while shaping the future of ecology.
- Qualifications: Degree in Ecology or related field and 3-5 years of consultancy experience.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 50000 £ per year.
Bennett and Game are representing a leading Manchester-based environmental consultancy currently seeking a Senior Ecologist to join their expanding team. With a current headcount of 25 and a turnover on track to grow from £2 million to £3 million in the next 12 months, the business is in a strong phase of strategic growth underpinned by a varied, design-led project pipeline. This is an opportunity to work with purpose, delivering practical, sustainable solutions that help clients balance development with meaningful ecological value. Our client operates across ecology, arboriculture, and green infrastructure, supporting projects nationwide in the residential, commercial, education, and infrastructure sectors.
The role will see you take a lead on project delivery, mentor junior team members, and help shape the future of the ecology discipline during this exciting growth phase. The business fosters a collaborative, low-hierarchy culture, with genuine opportunities for tailored career progression and innovation at every level.
Salary & Benefits- Salary range: £45,000 - £50,000, dependent on experience and licensing
- 24 days holiday (plus bank holidays), rising to 30 with long service
- Hybrid working - flexible arrangements dependent on project demands
- 5% employer pension contribution
- Paid professional subscription (1 per year)
- Access to company fleet vehicles for site travel
- Cycle to Work Scheme and Techscheme
- Eyecare scheme
- Season ticket cash advance available
- 1 volunteering day per year
- Regular staff events and a collaborative, low-hierarchy team culture
- Lead and manage multiple ecology projects from inception through to final delivery
- Conduct site-based habitat and protected species surveys, with particular emphasis on bats, GCN, and Phase 1/UKHab
- Take ownership of technical report writing, EcIA delivery, EPS licensing, and biodiversity net gain assessments
- Mentor and support junior ecologists, offering guidance, technical checks, and development planning
- Act as point of contact for clients, consultants, and planning authorities
- Oversee health and safety compliance, fieldwork logistics, and seasonal team resourcing
- Play a key role in team development and supporting the wider ecology business plan
- Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or any related subject
- Minimum 3-5 years' consultancy experience
- Full Member of CIEEM (essential)
- Deep understanding of UK/EC wildlife legislation and planning policy
- Demonstrable project management skills, including commercial oversight and delivery against deadlines
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Experience preparing EPSL documents, BNG assessments, and EcIAs
- Licences for bats and/or great crested newts (desirable)
- HRA, GIS capability, or FISC Level 3+ qualifications are advantageous
- Full UK driving licence
If you're looking to take the next step in your ecology career with a purpose-driven consultancy that values both people and the planet, we'd love to hear from you.
Principal Ecologist in Salford employer: Bennett & Game Recruitment Limited
Bennett and Game is an exceptional employer for those passionate about ecology, offering a collaborative and low-hierarchy work culture that prioritises employee growth and innovation. With a strong focus on sustainable solutions and a diverse project pipeline, employees enjoy tailored career progression opportunities, flexible hybrid working arrangements, and a comprehensive benefits package, including generous holiday allowances and professional development support. Join a team where your contributions truly make a difference in balancing development with ecological value in a thriving Manchester-based consultancy.
Contact Details:
Bennett & Game Recruitment Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Ecologist in Salford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with professionals in the ecology field. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Understand their approach to ecological consultancy and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. We want you to show them you’re not just another candidate, but the perfect fit for their team!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You’ll want to clearly articulate your experience and how it relates to the role of Principal Ecologist. We suggest rehearsing with a friend or in front of a mirror to boost your confidence and ensure you come across as genuine and knowledgeable.
✨Tip Number 4
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 engage directly with us. Let’s get you that dream job together!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Ecologist in Salford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Principal Ecologist role. Highlight your consultancy experience, project management skills, and any relevant qualifications to show us you're the perfect fit!
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 you can contribute to our mission of delivering sustainable solutions. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Since the role involves technical report writing and ecological assessments, make sure to mention your experience with EPSL documents, BNG assessments, and EcIAs. We want to see how your expertise aligns with our needs!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bennett & Game Recruitment Limited
✨Know Your Ecology Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of UK wildlife legislation and planning policy. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on, especially those involving bats and great crested newts, as these are key areas for the role.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your project management experience. Talk about how you've successfully delivered projects on time and within budget, and be ready to discuss any commercial oversight you've had in previous roles.
✨Be a Team Player
Since the company values collaboration, think of instances where you've mentored junior team members or contributed to a team’s success. Highlight your ability to work well in a low-hierarchy culture and how you can support the wider ecology business plan.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the company's current projects and future plans. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can contribute to their strategic growth.
