Senior/Principal Ecologist

Job Description

We are offering a role at one of the UK’s leading Ecology practices, working extensively throughout the UK. Over the last 60 years, the consultancy has developed a valuable mix of multi-disciplinary expertise in masterplanning, environmental assessment, urban design, landscape, ecology, architecture, arboriculture, and green infrastructure.

Based in a rural area of Derbyshire, you\’ll work in a beautiful manor house surrounded by attractive grounds, including a mature garden, pond, and various species of fauna and flora—an ecological haven! They also have regional offices in Exeter, Dorset, Greater London, Sheffield, and York.

The directors, who all started in junior positions, are now heavily involved in public enquiries and expert witness work, backed by their ecological knowledge and reputation. As an employee-owned business, all staff share in the company\’s success.

Your New Role

You will work on a diverse range of projects, from small-scale single dwellings to large sustainable developments that can take up to 10 years. You have the opportunity to choose the types of projects you work on and how you develop your career. The focus areas include residential, renewables, and minerals & waste industries.

You will play a pivotal role in leading and delivering high-quality ecological assessments, surveys, and mitigation strategies, collaborating with a large team of ecologists, landscape architects, arboriculturists, and environmental planners.

What You\’ll Need to Succeed

• At least a degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• A proven track record in managing and delivering ecological projects, including small to large-scale and complex sites.
• Experience in ecological consultancy, conducting surveys, assessments, preparing reports, and project management.
• Sound knowledge of UK ecology legislation, guidelines, and best practices.
• Strong communication skills for effective collaboration with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience advising clients on Biodiversity Net Gain, understanding of the DEFRA Statutory Biodiversity Metric, and report production.
• Ecological specialisms or protected species licences are advantageous but not essential.
• Membership or eligibility for membership of a relevant professional body (e.g., CIEEM).
• A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.

What You\’ll Get in Return

• Holiday and pension plans.
• Flexible/hybrid working arrangements, including compressed hours and 4-day weeks.
• 1:1 TOIL scheme.
• Employee-owned tax-free bonus (discretionary).
• 35-hour workweek.
• Regionally focused site work.
• Continuous training and CPD opportunities, including funded external courses.
• Professional membership subscriptions.
• Death in service scheme.
• Health cash plan and smart health scheme.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• In Derby: free parking, on-site shop and canteen, beautiful building, and surrounding grounds.

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