Your new company A well-established consultancy is seeking an experienced Senior Ecologist to play a pivotal role in developing and leading ecological services from its Sheffield base. This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious ecological professional who enjoys both project delivery and helping shape a growing regional team. Applications will also be considered at Consultant and Principal level for candidates demonstrating suitable experience. Your new role You will be joining a collaborative environment where ecology works closely with landscape, master planning and other technical disciplines. The role offers exposure across the full project lifecycle, from early strategic input to on-site implementation. Working from a central Sheffield office, you will help establish and expand a small but growing ecological presence supported by a wider national ecology team. Lead, coordinate and deliver ecological input across a varied project portfolio. Oversee and/or undertake protected species surveys. Prepare and review ecological reports including PEAs, EcIAs, HRAs and BNG assessments. Develop and implement mitigation strategies. Support and mentor junior team members, contributing to team development. Engage confidently with clients and external stakeholders as a senior representative. Contribute to high-quality, evidence based outcomes throughout planning and delivery stages. What you'll need to succeed Degree in Ecology, Biology or related subject (2:1 or above desirable). Proven experience in protected species surveys, ideally holding relevant survey licences. Habitat survey competence, including UKHab, with strong botanical skills. Solid understanding of UK wildlife legislation. Excellent written English and confident verbal communication skills. Skilled in MS Office and QGIS. Highly organised, proactive and effective at multitasking. Willingness to undertake evening and nighttime surveys during peak season. Full UK driving licence and access to a suitably insured vehicle. Membership of a relevant professional body (e.g., ACIEEM or above). What you'll get in return Competitive salary of £35,000-£43,000 per year. Hybrid working model, including up to two days per week from home. Flexible working arrangements around core hours. Annual bonus scheme, combining profit-related and performance-based rewards. Generous annual leave: 25 days per year Enhanced pension contributions, increasing with tenure. Team culture benefits, including an annual staff trip and regular social events. Strong commitment to professional development, offering a substantial external training budget aligned to individual interests and growth areas. What you need to do now If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career. Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk