Senior Ecologist / Ecologist

Join a new kind of ecology consultancy — one founded on expertise, driven by purpose, and built for success.

We're an ambitious new consultancy with deep roots in the industry. Backed by decades of combined professional ecological experience, a trusted contact book, and a proven track record of delivering high-quality work, we’re now looking to expand our core team.

We are looking for a passionate and experienced ecologist who is ready to help shape the future of our business. This is a fantastic opportunity to work across a diverse range of ecological projects and help shape a new consultancy led by experienced directors.

About the Role

We’re seeking a Senior Ecologist or experienced Ecologist who is confident taking ownership quickly — leading projects, building client relationships, mentoring junior team members, and contributing to the strategic growth of the business. This is more than a job — it’s a chance to co-create a consultancy with real values, real flexibility, and real ambition.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead field surveys, reporting, and project delivery across a range of projects
• Manage client relationships and support business development
• Prepare high-quality technical reports (e.g. PEAs, EcIAs, ES Chapters, BNG Assessments, HRAs, mitigation strategies)
• Support / lead protected species licence applications
• Mentor junior staff and help build a collaborative team culture
• Work closely with company directors on business strategy and growth

About You

We’re looking for someone who is driven, enthusiastic and collaborative; keen to have the autonomy to develop their career and support others to do so too.

Essential:

• A relevant degree (or equivalent) in ecology, environmental science, or a related field
• Proven experience in ecological consultancy (typically gained over c.3 years or more)
• Experience managing ecological projects and liaising with clients
• Excellent technical knowledge and protected species and botanical survey skills
• Track record of delivering reports to a professional standard
• A proactive mindset, with a desire to build your own portfolio and a successful consultancy
• Full driving licence and access to a vehicle (or ability to travel to sites by other means)

Desirable:

• At least one protected species class licence
• FISC level 4 certification, or equivalent
• Full or associate member of CIEEM (or a similar professional body)

Why Join Us?

• A rare opportunity to shape the direction of a growing consultancy
• Work alongside respected ecologists with a wide-reaching contact network
• A supportive, dynamic and friendly team environment
• Clear framework for progression, with budgets for training, professional membership and licences
• Competitive salary and benefits package, with TOIL, discretionary bonus scheme, profit share scheme (eligibility criteria apply), generous pension contribution, health care plan, cycle to work scheme and others
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays, plus Christmas closure, with an additional day per year with the company, and option to buy or sell up to 5 days
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
• Supportive, ethical, and inclusive team culture
• A focus on quality, integrity, and professionalism

Contract Type: Full or part-time; flexible working requests welcomed

We have offices in Leeds and Stroud and are looking for team members to live within reasonable commuting distance of one of our offices. We work on a hybrid basis, with a flexible approach. While our projects are across England and Wales and some travel and occasional overnight stays will be required (with notice given in advance), we are focused on ensuring our team have a good work-life balance.