Principal Ecologist

Principal Ecologist – Cambridge

A leading UK environmental consultancy is seeking a Principal Ecologist to join their Cambridge-based team. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced and forward‑thinking ecologist to take the next step in their career within a supportive and well‑established consultancy, which forms part of a larger global environmental and engineering group.

Benefits

• Competitive salary aligned with experience and market rates
• Flexible/hybrid working to support work‑life balance
• Exciting, high‑profile projects across infrastructure, renewables, water, and built environment sectors
• Clear progression pathways and structured career development
• Collaborative, inclusive team culture with access to technical experts across disciplines
• Comprehensive benefits package, including private healthcare, pension, and generous leave policies
• Strong commitment to sustainability and biodiversity net gain

The Role

The Principal Ecologist will lead on a diverse portfolio of projects, provide technical oversight, and mentor a growing team of ecologists. The role includes project management, client engagement, high‑level ecological assessment and reporting, and input into multi‑disciplinary design and planning teams.

Key responsibilities include

• Leading and delivering ecological inputs on a range of projects from concept to completion
• Designing and overseeing ecological surveys and assessments (including EIA and HRA)
• Providing technical review and quality assurance of reports
• Managing client relationships and contributing to business development
• Supporting the development and mentoring of junior ecologists
• Ensuring work is delivered in line with current legislation, best practice, and client expectations

You will ideally have

• Significant experience in ecological consultancy or a similar role
• Strong understanding of UK and EU wildlife legislation and planning policy
• Proven experience managing ecological aspects of complex projects
• Expertise in one or more specialist areas (e.g. bats, great crested newts, ornithology, botany)
• Full member of CIEEM (or eligible)
• Project management and client‑facing experience
• Protected species licences (desirable)
• Full UK driving licence

Interested in this opportunity? Please apply today or contact Ashleigh Garner at Penguin Recruitment

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