Full job descriptionAn established environmental consultancy is seeking an experienced Senior Ecologist to join its growing team. This role offers a varied workload across infrastructure, construction, and development projects, combining fieldwork, technical leadership, and project delivery.
You’ll work closely with project managers and senior colleagues, acting as a technical lead on ecological matters while supporting junior team members and ensuring projects are delivered to a high professional standard.
Key Responsibilities
*Lead and deliver protected species surveys, including bats.
*Act as technical ecological lead across a range of projects.
*Undertake and manage Ecological Clerk of Works duties on site.
*Complete UKHab / Phase 1 surveys and Biodiversity Net Gain assessments.
*Support the preparation of HRAs, mitigation licences, and EIA ecology inputs.
*Assist with project coordination from inception through to completion.
*Ensure compliance with ecological legislation, licences, and planning conditions.
*Review and guide the work of junior ecologists.
What You’ll Bring
*Degree in ecology or a related environmental discipline.
*Minimum 4+ years’ UK experience in ecological consultancy or related sector.
*Ideally a Bat licence holder (Level 1) or any other species licenses.
*Strong experience in protected species and habitat surveys.
*Sound understanding of the planning system, including BNG.
*Proven technical report writing and quality assurance skills.
*Confident communicator with clients, contractors, and stakeholders.
*Ability to manage workloads and coordinate surveys effectively.
*Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel and work survey hours.
Desirable:
*Membership of CIEEM (or working towards chartership).
*Experience producing protected species licences.
*Background in infrastructure, transport, or property development projects.
*Additional protected species licences (GCN, dormice, reptiles, barn owls).
*Experience with EIAs, HRAs, and GIS mapping.
Salary & Benefits
*Competitive salary based on experience.
*Remote working and site visits.
*Company car or car allowance with mileage.
*Flexible working hours and hybrid arrangements.
*25 days annual leave + bank holidays + birthday leave.
*Pension scheme.
*Ongoing training and professional development opportunities.
Why Apply?
This role offers the chance to step into a senior position within a supportive consultancy, delivering high-quality ecological services on diverse and meaningful projects. You’ll benefit from flexibility, strong career development, and the opportunity to make a real impact across the environmental sector.
When applying to any role through Cobalt, your CV will never be shared with a client without your prior consent. Apply in confidence below or get in touch with me for a confidential discussion about the position via or .