Principal / Associate Ecologist – Launch your own Ecology office

Overview

In this Principal/Associate Ecologist role, you drive real-world ecological outcomes with autonomy and trust, shaping landscapes, policy, and the next generation of ecological practice. You’ll lead projects, mentor colleagues, and help grow a values-driven consultancy that places biodiversity and innovation at its core. The position offers flexible working, potential to run your own office, and close collaboration with a passionate team. This is a chance to influence environmental change at scale while advancing your career.

Pay / Benefits

• Unlimited annual leave
• Hybrid working
• Unlimited external training budget
• Pension scheme
• Apple computer and iPhone provided
• Paid professional memberships (e.g., CIEEM)

Responsibilities

• Deliver and/or lead ecological consultancy work including habitat and protected species surveys, EcIAs, Biodiversity Net Gain assessments, and mitigation design
• Manage and deliver projects across Home Counties, South, and Midlands with client-focused outcomes
• Undertake technical reviews of ecological reports to uphold quality standards
• Support, mentor, and guide colleagues according to experience
• Contribute to business development and help shape consultancy growth

Key requirements

• Genuine passion for ecology and environmental conservation
• Strong technical experience in habitat and/or protected species surveys
• Survey licence for at least one protected species or demonstrable expertise in another ecological field
• Excellent communication and organisational skills; ability to work independently and in a team
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel

• Excellent communication
• Strong organisational skills
• Independent and collaborative work style
• EcIA
• BNG (Biodiversity Net Gain)
• BNG-related ecological assessments

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