Senior Ecologist – National +

Senior Ecologist – National +

Milton Keynes Full-Time 36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join our team as a Senior Ecologist, working on diverse environmental projects across the UK.
  • Company: We are a multidisciplinary environmental practice focused on biodiversity and ecological assessments.
  • Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours, competitive salary, 25 days holiday, and professional development opportunities.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on biodiversity while collaborating with a friendly and supportive team.
  • Qualifications: Degree in ecology or related field; experience with bat and newt surveys preferred.
  • Other info: Full UK driving licence required; hybrid working options available.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.

Senior Ecologist – National / July, 2025

Are you an experienced ecologist looking for an opportunity to join our established team undertaking a broad range of work within a multidisciplinary environmental practice?

We are looking for a senior ecologist to join one of our friendly offices in Wakefield, Harrogate, Manchester, Milton Keynes or Reading. We work throughout the UK, but mainly in the north of England and Midlands with a wide range of clients on an equally wide range of projects.

Our work includes extended phase 1 habitat/UK Habitat Classification System and protected species surveys. We formulate mitigation proposals and habitat creation schemes in collaboration with our landscape team to support Biodiversity Net Gain requirements. We are currently supervising projects under EPS licences for bats and great crested newts. Generally, our outputs are in the form of technical reports for planning submission, but we also provide input to BREEAM Assessments, Biodiversity Net Gain Assessments and EIAs.

We are looking for a senior level of experience in areas such as survey licences for bats and great crested newts, including knowledge of mitigation and previous successful submission of development licences for these species; although candidates nearing this level of experience would be considered. Ideally you would have experience of undertaking Biodiversity Net Gain assessments using the DEFRA metric v3.1, and preparation of Ecological Impact Assessments/Ecology Chapters for use within Environmental Impact Assessments would be an advantage.

As the successful candidate you will:

  • Be qualified to degree level or equivalent in ecology or a related discipline
  • Hold or be working towards a bat survey licence (Class 2) with experience of development licence application and supervision
  • Hold or working towards Associate or Full membership of CIEEM
  • An excellent working knowledge of wildlife legislation and the planning process, habitat and protected species surveying
  • A good understanding of Biodiversity Net Gain assessments with a competent handle on use of the Defra Metric
  • Experience of project management, preparing fee quotes and excellent report writing skills
  • Competent computer skills including use of QGIS mapping and bat call analysis software
  • Be self-motivated with an ability to communicate effectively, including management/mentoring of junior staff as part of a team

A full UK driving licence and car ownership/access is essential due to the nature of the role.

We offer flexible and hybrid working hours with a competitive salary based on experience, annual training opportunities, a generous TOIL scheme, 25 days holiday per year (based on full time working), annual professional membership subscription to CIEEM, workplace pension scheme and a friendly office environment.

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Senior Ecologist – National + employer: The Harris Partnership

Join our dynamic team as a Senior Ecologist in one of our welcoming offices located in Wakefield, Harrogate, Manchester, Milton Keynes, or Reading. We pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative work culture that values employee growth through continuous training and professional development opportunities, alongside a competitive salary and generous benefits such as flexible working hours and a supportive environment. With a focus on impactful projects that contribute to biodiversity and sustainability, this role offers a meaningful career path for passionate ecologists looking to make a difference.
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Contact Detail:

The Harris Partnership Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Senior Ecologist – National +

Tip Number 1

Network with professionals in the ecology field, especially those who have experience with bats and great crested newts. Attend relevant conferences or workshops to meet potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends in biodiversity assessments.

Tip Number 2

Familiarise yourself with the DEFRA metric v3.1 for Biodiversity Net Gain assessments. Understanding this metric will not only enhance your knowledge but also demonstrate your commitment to the role during interviews.

Tip Number 3

Consider volunteering for projects that involve ecological surveys or habitat creation schemes. This hands-on experience can be invaluable and will help you build a portfolio that showcases your skills and dedication.

Tip Number 4

Prepare to discuss your project management experience in detail. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully managed projects, prepared fee quotes, and mentored junior staff, as these are key aspects of the Senior Ecologist role.

We think you need these skills to ace Senior Ecologist – National +

Degree in Ecology or related discipline
Bat survey licence (Class 2)
Experience with great crested newt surveys
Knowledge of wildlife legislation
Understanding of the planning process
Experience in Biodiversity Net Gain assessments
Proficiency in DEFRA metric v3.1
Preparation of Ecological Impact Assessments
Technical report writing skills
Project management experience
Competent use of QGIS mapping software
Experience with bat call analysis software
Ability to mentor junior staff
Excellent communication skills
Full UK driving licence

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in ecology, particularly with bats and great crested newts. Include any specific projects you've worked on that relate to Biodiversity Net Gain assessments or ecological impact assessments.

Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for ecology and your understanding of the role. Mention your qualifications, relevant licences, and how your experience aligns with the company's projects and values.

Highlight Technical Skills: Emphasise your technical skills, especially in report writing, QGIS mapping, and bat call analysis software. Provide examples of how you've used these skills in previous roles or projects.

Showcase Teamwork and Leadership: Discuss your experience in managing or mentoring junior staff. Highlight any collaborative projects you've been involved in, demonstrating your ability to work effectively within a team.

How to prepare for a job interview at The Harris Partnership

Showcase Your Ecological Expertise

Be prepared to discuss your experience with protected species surveys, particularly bats and great crested newts. Highlight any relevant projects you've worked on and be ready to explain your role in the mitigation proposals and habitat creation schemes.

Demonstrate Knowledge of Biodiversity Net Gain

Familiarise yourself with the DEFRA metric v3.1 and be ready to discuss how you've applied it in previous assessments. This will show that you understand current ecological practices and can contribute effectively to the team's goals.

Prepare for Technical Questions

Expect questions related to wildlife legislation, planning processes, and ecological impact assessments. Brush up on your knowledge in these areas so you can confidently answer and demonstrate your expertise.

Emphasise Teamwork and Mentoring Skills

As a senior ecologist, you'll likely be managing or mentoring junior staff. Be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others and supported team members in their development.

Senior Ecologist – National +
The Harris Partnership
Location: Milton Keynes
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