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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead ecological consultancy projects and conduct habitat and species surveys.
- Company: Ecology by Design, a forward-thinking ecological consultancy with a vibrant team culture.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, unlimited holidays, competitive salary, and an external training budget.
- Why this job: Shape the future of ecology while enjoying a relaxed, dog-friendly office environment.
- Qualifications: Passion for ecology, experience in surveys, and strong communication skills.
- Other info: Join a diverse team that values creativity and supports your professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
Step out of the ordinary and shape the future of ecology. At Ecology by Design we’re redefining what it means to be an ecological consultant – blending scientific rigour with creativity, innovation and a genuine commitment to restoring nature.
The Role at a Glance
- Location: UK South East / Midlands
- Salary: Negotiable
- Contract: Full‑time, Permanent – Part‑time and flexible working considered
- Pedigree: CIEEM Registered Practice, Certified “Great Place to Work”
- Clients include: English Heritage, Knight Frank, Savils, Oxfordshire County Council, Ridge
Why Join Ecology by Design?
Forget timesheets, clock‑watching, and rigid hierarchies. Here you manage your own hours, work where you work best and take unlimited holidays when you need them. Our offices are dog‑friendly, relaxed and full of energy. We’re an SME with a genuinely awesome team culture – from summer Olympics and Three Peaks challenges to Friday drinks and spontaneous adventures. We’re proud to be diverse and inclusive – team members from LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, and from a wide mix of cultures and experiences. If you love exploring new ideas – experimenting with AI, testing new methodologies or building a new business from scratch – you’ll have our full support.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver or lead ecological consultancy work – habitat surveys (Phase 1 / NVC / UK Habitats), protected species surveys, EcIAs, BNG assessments and mitigation design.
- Manage and deliver projects across the Home Counties, South and Midlands, ensuring high‑quality, client‑focused outcomes.
- Undertake technical reviews of ecological reports and support consistent quality standards across the team.
- Support, mentor and guide colleagues (depending on experience level).
- Contribute to business development activities and help shape the growth of the consultancy.
About You
- Genuine passion for ecology and environmental conservation.
- Strong technical experience in habitat and/or protected species surveys.
- Survey licence for at least one protected species (e.g., bats, GCN, dormouse) or demonstrable specialist expertise in another ecological field.
- Excellent communication and organisational skills, able to work independently and as part of a team.
- Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel as required.
- Experience in EcIA, BNG, BREEAM or related ecological assessments.
- Experience of mentoring or line management (particularly for Principal‑level candidates).
- GIS experience (QGIS/ArcGIS – training available).
- CIEEM membership (or eligibility).
- Degree (or equivalent) in an ecology‑related discipline.
- Advanced or multiple species licences (e.g., Bat Low Impact, Badger).
- Experience or interest in client development and consultancy growth.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- Hybrid working – flexible mix of home and office.
- Unlimited external training budget and in‑house learning.
- Apple computer and iPhone provided.
- Unlimited annual leave and flexible working arrangements.
- Supportive, collaborative culture where ideas and expertise are valued.
- Chance to help shape a growing consultancy’s culture and direction.
Company Culture
We maintain a healthy, team‑orientated, supportive culture. Communication is key to all that we do, both with clients and across the company. We prioritise health and well‑being of our staff – encouraging leave throughout projects and providing in‑house mental health support. Whilst quality and timeliness of surveying and reporting is core, we like to have fun too.
Apply today and join a values‑driven consultancy where your work truly matters – to our clients, our communities and the planet.
Principal / Associate Ecologist - Launch your own Ecology office in Birmingham employer: Ecology By Design
Contact Detail:
Ecology By Design Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal / Associate Ecologist - Launch your own Ecology office in Birmingham
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the ecology field! Attend industry events, join online forums, or even hit up local meetups. The more you engage with others, the better your chances of landing that dream role.
✨Show Off Your Passion
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let your enthusiasm for ecology shine through! Share your experiences, projects, and ideas that showcase your commitment to environmental conservation. It’s all about making that personal connection.
✨Tailor Your Approach
Don’t just send out generic applications. Research the companies you’re interested in, like Ecology by Design, and tailor your pitch to highlight how your skills and values align with theirs. This shows you’re genuinely interested and not just looking for any job.
✨Utilise Our Website
Make sure to apply through our website for the best chance at landing a role with us! We love seeing candidates who take the time to engage with our platform and understand what we’re all about. Plus, it makes it easier for us to find you!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal / Associate Ecologist - Launch your own Ecology office in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Ecology: When writing your application, let your love for ecology and environmental conservation shine through. We want to see your genuine enthusiasm for the field, so share any personal experiences or projects that highlight your commitment to restoring nature.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific role and our company culture. Highlight your relevant skills and experiences, especially those related to habitat surveys and protected species, as we’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate well-structured applications that make it easy for us to see your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the position. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our awesome team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ecology By Design
✨Know Your Ecology Stuff
Brush up on your technical knowledge related to habitat surveys and protected species. Be ready to discuss your experience with specific assessments like EcIAs or BNG, as well as any relevant licences you hold. This shows you're not just passionate about ecology but also have the expertise to back it up.
✨Show Your Creative Side
Ecology by Design values innovation, so think about how you can bring creativity into your role. Prepare examples of past projects where you’ve used innovative methods or technologies. This will demonstrate that you’re aligned with their mission to redefine ecological consultancy.
✨Emphasise Team Spirit
With a focus on collaboration and mentorship, be prepared to talk about your experiences working in teams. Share instances where you've supported colleagues or contributed to a positive team culture. This will resonate well with their emphasis on a supportive environment.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions about the company culture, their approach to client development, or future projects. This not only shows your genuine interest in the role but also gives you a chance to assess if the company is the right fit for you.
