At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead ecological consultancy projects and drive real-world change for biodiversity.
- Company: Ecology by Design, a people-first ecology business with a vibrant culture.
- Benefits: Unlimited holidays, flexible working, competitive salary, and an Apple computer.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive culture with plenty of fun team activities.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and shape the future of ecological practice.
- Qualifications: Experience in ecological surveys and a genuine passion for environmental conservation.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Join to apply for the Senior / Principal Ecologist role at Ecology by Design. 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. Your expertise isn’t boxed in by bureaucracy or lost in endless process; it drives real‑world change. If you’re a Senior or Principal Ecologist ready to take ownership of your work, influence project outcomes, and lead with purpose, this is your moment.
You’ll join a passionate, forward‑thinking team where autonomy, trust, and technical excellence go hand in hand – and where your ideas shape landscapes, policy, and the next generation of ecological practice. This isn’t just another consultancy role; it’s a chance to be part of a movement that puts biodiversity, innovation, and people at the heart of everything we do.
The Role at a Glance
- Level: Senior / Principal Ecologist
- Location: Inviting candidates from a 100‑mile radius of Oxford / Chalgrove
- Contract: Full‑time, Permanent – part‑time and flexible working considered
- Salary: Negotiable, depending on expertise
- Company: Ecology by Design – a certified Great Place to Work
- Clients include: English Heritage, Knight Frank, Savils, Oxfordshire County Council, Ridge
Why Join Ecology by Design
We’re an independent, people‑first ecology business built on trust, flexibility, and creativity. 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. You’ll be surrounded by passionate ecologists who care deeply about their work and each other. We’re a small‑to‑mid‑size team with a genuinely awesome culture – from summer Olympics and Three Peaks challenges to Friday drinks and spontaneous adventures, there’s always something happening if you want to get involved. We’re proud to be diverse and inclusive, with team members from all backgrounds – LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, and from a wide mix of cultures and experiences. We see diversity as our collective superpower, and we’ll help you use yours to the max.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver and/or lead a range of ecological consultancy work – including habitat surveys (Phase 1 / NVC / UK Habitats), protected species surveys, EcIAs, Biodiversity Net Gain (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
- A 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, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- A 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: a flexible mix of home and office base.
- Excellent training and development, including an unlimited external training budget and in‑house learning.
- Apple computer and iPhone provided.
- Unlimited annual leave and flexible working arrangements to support a healthy work‑life balance.
- A supportive, collaborative culture where your ideas and expertise are valued.
- A 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 the health and well‑being of our staff. From encouraging people to take appropriate leave throughout projects to in‑house mental health support, keeping our team safe, healthy and feeling valued are all part of our company ethos. Whilst quality and timeliness of surveying and reporting is core to our business, 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.
Senior / Principal Ecologist in England employer: Ecology By Design
At Ecology by Design, we pride ourselves on being a certified Great Place to Work, where flexibility, creativity, and a people-first approach are at the core of our culture. Our team enjoys unlimited holidays, hybrid working options, and a vibrant, dog-friendly office environment that fosters collaboration and innovation. With a strong commitment to employee growth through extensive training opportunities and a diverse, inclusive atmosphere, we empower our ecologists to make a meaningful impact on biodiversity and ecological practices in the Oxford area and beyond.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior / Principal Ecologist in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the ecology field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. Attend industry events or webinars to meet new people and get your name out there.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your enthusiasm for ecology and conservation. Talk about projects you've worked on and how they made a difference – it’ll help you stand out!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Be ready to discuss how your skills can contribute to their mission of restoring nature. Tailor your answers to show you’re a perfect fit for their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our company culture.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior / Principal Ecologist in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Ecology:When writing your application, let your love for ecology shine through! Share specific experiences that highlight your commitment to environmental conservation and how they align with our mission at Ecology by Design.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Senior / Principal Ecologist role. Highlight relevant skills and experiences that match the job description, and don’t forget to mention any unique projects you've worked on!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We want to understand your qualifications and passion without getting lost in complicated terms!
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, it shows you’re keen to be part of our awesome team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ecology By Design
✨Know Your Ecology Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your ecological knowledge, especially around habitat surveys and protected species. Be ready to discuss your technical experience and any relevant licences you hold, as this will show your expertise and passion for the field.
✨Showcase Your Creativity
Ecology by Design values innovation, so think about how you can bring creative solutions to ecological challenges. Prepare examples of past projects where you’ve used creativity to drive results or improve outcomes, and be ready to share these during the interview.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Since the company prides itself on a supportive culture, highlight your ability to work collaboratively. Share experiences where you’ve mentored others or contributed to team success, as this aligns with their values of trust and teamwork.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the company’s approach to biodiversity and innovation. This not only shows your genuine interest in the role but also gives you a chance to assess if the company culture aligns with your values.
