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- Tasks: Lead exciting ecology projects and mentor junior team members in a collaborative environment.
- Company: Rapidly growing consultancy known for technical expertise and client-focused solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, unlimited leave, flexible hours, and generous training budget.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on ecological projects while enjoying a balanced work-life.
- Qualifications: Degree in ecology or related field, with specialist expertise and client-facing experience.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team with excellent career growth opportunities and a supportive culture.
The predicted salary is between 37000 - 46000 £ per year.
New Principal Ecologist job available with a growing independent consultancy based in Oxford. The role will support the delivery of ecology projects across the home counties, the South, and the Midlands area. This is a hybrid role and offers the opportunity to manage ecology projects from initial enquiry through to completion within a collaborative and technically focused team.
The company is a rapidly growing consultancy known for its technical expertise and commitment to delivering practical, client-focused ecological solutions. With a diverse client base across public and private sectors, the team works on projects in land development, infrastructure, and conservation across the UK. This is a great opportunity for an experienced ecologist looking to take the next step in their career, working within a growing ecology consultancy that values autonomy, technical quality, and a balanced approach to work.
Role & Responsibilities
- Lead and deliver ecology consultancy projects across the South, Midlands, and Home Counties
- Carry out Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs), habitat condition assessments, and Biodiversity Impact Assessments
- Undertake protected species surveys and priority species assessments
- Prepare tenders, Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA), and technical reporting
- Design surveys and lead field teams across a variety of project types
- Mentor and support junior team members, ensuring high standards of technical work and service delivery
Required Skills & Experience
- Specialist expertise in one or more key ecological areas
- Client-facing experience and involvement in business development
- Degree or equivalent in ecology or a related field
- Membership of CIEEM (or working towards membership)
- GIS experience (QGIS or ArcGIS)
What you get back
- £43,000 - £55,000, depending on experience
- Paid professional memberships
- Unlimited internal and external CPD/training budget
- Bonus scheme
- Generous pension scheme
- Unlimited annual leave
- Flexible working hours and hybrid options
If you meet the criteria above, send us your CV and portfolio. We receive a large number of applications so if you do not hear back within 7 days consider your application unsuccessful this time. We will keep a copy of your details on file for future vacancies.
Principal Ecologist employer: Hunter Dunning Limited
Contact Detail:
Hunter Dunning Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Ecologist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the ecology field, attend industry events, and join relevant online forums. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that Principal Ecologist role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Familiarise yourself with their approach to ecological solutions and think about how your experience aligns with their needs. We want you to shine when you get that chance to impress!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your expertise! Bring along examples of your previous work, such as reports or project summaries, to demonstrate your skills during interviews. We believe that tangible evidence of your capabilities can set you apart from the competition.
✨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 platform. Let’s get you that Principal Ecologist position!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Ecologist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in ecology and project management. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your expertise!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about ecology and how you can contribute to our team. Keep it concise but engaging – we love a good story!
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Don’t forget to mention your GIS experience and any specific ecological assessments you’ve conducted. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so let us know what tools you’re comfortable with!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into our hands quickly. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hunter Dunning Limited
✨Know Your Ecology Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your ecological knowledge, especially in areas relevant to the role. Be prepared to discuss your experience with Preliminary Ecological Appraisals and Biodiversity Impact Assessments, as well as any specific species surveys you've conducted.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Since this role involves managing ecology projects from start to finish, be ready to share examples of past projects you've led. Highlight your ability to coordinate teams, manage timelines, and deliver high-quality results.
✨Demonstrate Client-Facing Experience
This consultancy values client relationships, so think of instances where you've successfully engaged with clients or contributed to business development. Share how you’ve tailored solutions to meet client needs and built lasting partnerships.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions related to GIS tools like QGIS or ArcGIS. Brush up on your skills and be ready to discuss how you've used these tools in your previous roles to support ecological assessments.
