Senior Ecologist in Southampton

SLR is looking for a Senior Ecologist to join our fast‑growing, expert team in Southampton. The role involves managing ecological projects within Wales and the South West (and occasionally further afield) with a strong focus on renewable energy, infrastructure and residential schemes and other commercial development projects.

Responsibilities

• Managing ecological projects commensurate with experience, assisting team leads with managing resource allocation and financial budgets, addressing any client feedback and ensuring effective communications on all projects.
• Producing and overseeing the production of ecological appraisals, reports, licence applications, Ecological Impact Assessments, Habitats Regulations Assessments, EPS licences and other similar documents.
• Mentoring junior team members.
• Carrying out ecological surveys where necessary and checking that surveys are being conducted to the required standards by all staff.
• Assisting the team leads with the preparation of fee proposals.

Qualifications

• A good level of both academic and professional qualifications in ecology or a related discipline.
• Experience of managing ecological projects to completion and reporting to the standards required by planning authorities, Natural Resources Wales and other similar bodies.
• Experience of making licence applications and holds at least one Protected Species licence; a bat licence would be advantageous.
• Experience of preparing a wide range of technical reports including Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, Ecological Impact Assessments, ES Chapters, Habitat Regulations Assessments and other technical reports.
• Experience of applying for Natural Resources Wales/Natural England mitigation licences.
• Good knowledge of relevant UK and European legislation, policy and guidance.
• Quasi‑member or higher status of CIEEM.
• A full UK driving licence and access to a personal car.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package including a company pension, excellent healthcare, travel and life insurance.
• 25 days of annual leave plus additional flexible bank holidays.
• Flexible, agile and hybrid working arrangements with the ability to tailor hours around core hours.
• Family‑friendly policies to help balance professional and home life.
• A structured career framework with regular reviews and outstanding opportunities for progression.

Inclusion & Equality

SLR is committed to being an equal‑opportunities employer. We foster an inclusive environment through Regional C&I Committees, a Global Council and Employee Networks, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds, including those from under‑represented groups such as people identifying as 2SLGBTQI+, Indigenous peoples, ethnic minority groups, women and people with visible or invisible disabilities, including neurodivergent individuals. As a Disability‑Confident committed employer, we provide equitable support throughout the recruitment process.