At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting ecology projects while mentoring junior team members in a supportive environment.
- Company: Reputable independent Ecology practice in the stunning Derbyshire Dales.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, hybrid working, 26 days leave, and a dog-friendly office.
- Other info: Join a friendly team that values work-life balance and personal growth.
- Why this job: Enjoy meaningful work without burnout, with real flexibility and community spirit.
- Qualifications: 4-5 years experience in ecology, leadership skills, and report writing expertise.
The predicted salary is between 32000 - 48000 £ per year.
Ecology without the burnout. Too often we see ecology roles that promise flexibility and balance, but when it comes to real-life practices, Ecologists are left feeling overworked and burnt out. Long unsociable hours, unpaid overtime, extended periods away from home or on the road, and excessive or rigid in office requirements that make juggling life with work impossible. Not here. We're looking for a talented Senior/Principal Ecologist to join a highly reputed, independent Ecology practice based in the Derbyshire Dales, perfecting the balance between impactful, enjoyable work and a life outside the office.
Why join?
- Real Flexibility: A genuinely flexible working culture that's had WFH as part of its fabric since inception - not just a pandemic leftover. Hours can be tailored around childcare, part-time needs, or personal rhythms, with no rigid desk mandates.
- Zero Burnout Culture: Minimal antisocial hours (max 1 evening/week even during peak season). Proper TOIL system. Mostly local projects offering less travel stress - and a healthy expense budget for any jobs further afield.
- Collaborative Leadership: You get to influence the work you take on. Workloads and proposals are discussed openly in weekly team meetings - no surprises, no overload.
- Career Growth Your Way: Want to lead on bird work? Specialise in BNG? Get that new licence under your belt? Whatever your interest or passion, you'll have the practical support, mentorship and training budget to make it happen.
- Community & Connection: A team that's more than colleagues; you'll be part of a real community that genuinely enjoy working together. From fortnightly team lunches and office baking competitions to WhatsApp group chats dedicated to geeking out over shared interests, here you'll find a friendly, supportive environment where people actually look forward to coming in (or logging on)!
The Role:
As well as getting outdoors (and being based in the heart of the Peak District has its own perks!), you'll also be guiding and mentoring at least one junior team member, leading projects, and working directly with clients. You'll get to work across an interesting mix of projects of varying scales; including conservation work, large estate management, renewables, residential development, quarries and NSIPs; and across the full project lifecycles.
Salary & Benefits:
- £32k – £48k DOE
- 26 days annual leave plus bank hols plus Christmas period office closure
- Flexible hours, hybrid working, full time or part time
- TOIL policy
- Dog-friendly office in a great location
- Company credit card
- Hire car access
About you:
This role would best fit someone with a minimum of 4-5 years (post qualifying) experience, with some prior Senior/Leadership experience. A Level 2 Bat Licence (or working towards) would be highly desirable; however we are also very interested to hear from individuals with ornithology and/or botany specialisms. You'll be skilled at writing complex reports, have good quality assurance and project management experience, and be able to lead and guide junior team members.
Maybe you're just starting out in your senior journey and looking for the support or opportunity to become a better leader? Or maybe you're an experienced Senior, keen to take on more responsibility? Perhaps you're even nearing retirement and keen to pass on your wisdom and knowledge, while reducing your hours? Whatever stage of life you're in, if you value a supportive environment where you can do meaningful work without sacrificing your well-being, we'd love to hear from you!
How to Apply: For more information or to apply, click 'Apply Now' or email becky@greenbridge-recruitment.co.uk. Alternatively call Becky on 01638 358394.
Senior / Principal Ecologist in Bakewell employer: Greenbridge Recruitment
Greenbridge Recruitment is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Peterborough where creativity and innovation thrive. With a strong commitment to employee development through comprehensive CPD programmes and mentorship, team members are empowered to grow their careers while enjoying the flexibility of hybrid working arrangements. As an employee-owned practice, we prioritise values-led initiatives that foster collaboration and a sense of community among our staff.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior / Principal Ecologist in Bakewell
✨Get Involved in Local Environmental Initiatives
Dive into your local environmental scenes, like community clean-up projects or eco-focused events. Not only will you meet like-minded people, but it's a surefire way to showcase your passion and skills in environmental engineering tech.
✨Join Industry-Specific Organisations
Check out organisations like the Institution of Environmental Engineers for networking opportunities and resources. They often host events and seminars that can help us connect with key players in the industry, including potential employers like Greenbridge Recruitment.
✨Show Off Your Projects and Passion
Create a portfolio that highlights any relevant projects, whether it's coursework, internships, or personal initiatives. Share this online, perhaps even on platforms like GitHub or your own website, to grab the attention of hiring managers looking for talent like us.
✨Utilise Environmental Job Boards
Take advantage of niche job boards dedicated to environmental careers. Sites like Green Jobs, Environmental Career and EcoJobs often feature openings from companies like Greenbridge Recruitment and can help us land that full-time gig.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior / Principal Ecologist in Bakewell
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for a role in environmental engineering tech, make sure to highlight your technical skills like CAD software proficiency, data analysis, or modelling techniques. These are essential for the job and should stand out in your CV and cover letter, showing how you can contribute to projects at Greenbridge Recruitment.
Demonstrate Your Passion for Sustainability:In this field, showcasing your passion for sustainability and environmental protection can set you apart. Include any relevant projects, volunteer experience, or courses that underline your commitment to these causes. Greenbridge Recruitment will appreciate candidates who genuinely care about making a difference.
Tailor Your Application to the Role:Don't just send a generic CV and cover letter. Make sure to tailor your application to the specific role of Senior / Principal Ecologist at Greenbridge Recruitment. Highlight experiences that align directly with the job description and give concrete examples of your work to demonstrate that you’re the right fit for a full-time position.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have certifications related to environmental engineering or technology, like LEED Accreditation or any relevant software certifications, make sure to mention them. These qualifications can boost your application and show that you’re serious about your professional development in this competitive field.
How to prepare for a job interview at Greenbridge Recruitment
✨Brush Up on Environmental Regulations
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest environmental regulations and standards. In an environmental engineering tech role at Greenbridge Recruitment, you might be asked specific questions about compliance measures, so understanding these will definitely give you an edge.
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your proficiency with relevant tools and software, such as AutoCAD or GIS. You might be given a practical problem to solve during the interview, so it’s a great idea to brush up on these skills and perhaps even bring a portfolio of your projects to showcase your technical prowess.
✨Highlight Your Passion for Sustainability
In a full-time role, employers are looking for commitment and enthusiasm. Share your experiences, studies, or projects that reflect your passion for environmental sustainability. This will show Greenbridge Recruitment that you're not just qualified but genuinely invested in the field.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Be ready for behavioural questions that assess how you handle teamwork, conflict, and project management. Think of examples from your studies or practical experiences where you tackled challenges effectively, showcasing both your technical and interpersonal skills.
