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- Tasks: Lead exciting ecological projects and mentor junior team members.
- Company: Dynamic ecological consultancy with a focus on innovation and staff wellbeing.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, unlimited leave, flexible working, and company-issued tech.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in ecology while enjoying a supportive team culture.
- Qualifications: Passion for ecology, leadership experience, and relevant survey licences.
- Other info: Hybrid working options and opportunities for professional development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
A dynamic and forward-thinking ecological consultancy is seeking a Principal Ecologist to join its expanding team. This is a key leadership position within a collaborative and agile team. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to guide and develop junior colleagues, uphold quality standards, and contribute to the future direction of the business. Due to the project-based nature of ecological consultancy, some travel and occasional overnight stays will be required. However, work-life balance is prioritised, with caps in place for time spent away or working unsocial hours. Projects are primarily located across the Midlands, South, and Home Counties, though work may take place throughout the UK.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and deliver a variety of ecological projects
- Provide technical oversight and review of ecological reports
- Mentor and line‐manage junior team members
- Contribute to the design and implementation of mitigation strategies
- Build and maintain client relationships
- Ensure high standards of service delivery and compliance
Key Qualifications
- Strong passion for ecology and the natural environment
- Demonstrable experience in team leadership or mentoring
- Survey licence for one or more protected species (e.g. bats, great crested newts) or specialism in a relevant taxonomic group
- Proficiency in habitat surveys (Phase 1/NVC/UK Habitats) and/or protected species work
- Experience designing mitigation and reviewing technical documentation
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- Full or Chartered Member of CIEEM (or eligible)
- Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle
- Business development or sales experience (or willingness to learn)
- Knowledge of EcIA, BREEAM, or biodiversity net gain
- Advanced skills in a specific ecological area (e.g. bats, botany, newts)
- Experience with QGIS or ArcGIS (training available)
- EPSM or specialist mitigation licences (e.g. Bat Low Impact Class Licence)
What's on Offer
- Competitive salary and generous pension
- Unlimited annual leave and flexible working arrangements
- Paid professional memberships
- Company‐issued Apple tech (laptop and phone)
- Annual training budget with unlimited access to external courses
- Bonus scheme awarded by peers
- A supportive, inclusive team culture
- Opportunities to shape the direction of a growing consultancy
Location
The role is based within commuting distance of Oxfordshire or Gloucestershire. Hybrid working options are available.
This is a unique opportunity to join a growing SME with a clear strategic vision and a commitment to innovation, staff wellbeing, and excellence in ecological consultancy.
Principal Ecologist employer: Parkside Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Parkside Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Ecologist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, workshops, or even local meet-ups. It's all about making connections and showing your passion for ecology – you never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Get your online presence sorted! Update your LinkedIn profile to reflect your skills and experiences. Join relevant groups and engage with posts to showcase your expertise in ecological consultancy.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially in mentoring and leading teams. Show them you're the perfect fit for their dynamic environment!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team. Plus, it gives you a chance to highlight your unique skills and experiences directly to us.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Ecologist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Ecology: We want to see your enthusiasm for ecology and the natural environment shine through in your application. Share specific experiences or projects that highlight your commitment to this field, as it’s a key part of what we’re looking for!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the job description. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant qualifications, like your survey licences or expertise in habitat surveys, to show us you’re the perfect fit.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and structure your thoughts logically. This will help us easily understand your qualifications and how you can contribute to our team.
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, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our company culture there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Parkside Recruitment
✨Know Your Ecology Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your ecological knowledge, especially regarding protected species and habitat surveys. Be ready to discuss your experience with specific projects and how you've applied your skills in real-world scenarios.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Ecologist, you'll be leading a team. Prepare examples of how you've mentored junior colleagues or led projects in the past. Highlight your ability to foster collaboration and maintain high standards within a team.
✨Demonstrate Your Client Relationship Skills
Client relationships are key in consultancy. Think of instances where you've successfully built or maintained client relationships. Be prepared to discuss how you ensure service delivery and compliance while keeping clients happy.
✨Be Ready for Technical Questions
Expect questions about technical aspects like mitigation strategies, EcIA, or biodiversity net gain. Brush up on relevant regulations and best practices, and be prepared to discuss how you would approach specific ecological challenges.
