Principal / Associate Ecologist – Launch your own Ecology office – 19902
Principal / Associate Ecologist – Launch your own Ecology office. Apply now for this unique opportunity with RR.
Building Biodiversity Better
Step out of the ordinary and shape the future of ecology. At Ecology by Design we blend scientific rigor with creativity and innovation, empowering consultants to drive real‑world environmental change.
For a Principal or Associate level Ecologist who is ready to own projects, influence outcomes, and lead with purpose, this role offers autonomy, trust and the chance to shape landscapes, policy and the next generation of ecological practice. Successful candidates will also have the opportunity to open and run their own office backed by us.
The Role at a Glance
* Title: Principal / Associate Ecologist
* Location: UK South East / Midlands
* Contract: Full‑time, Permanent (Part‑time and flexible working considered)
* Salary: Negotiable, depending on expertise
* Benefits: Competitive package, hybrid working, unlimited training budget, paid professional memberships, Apple computer and phone, generous pension scheme, unlimited annual leave and flexible arrangements
* Pedigree: CIEEM Registered Practice; certified “Great Place to Work”
* Clients include: English Heritage, Knight Frank, Savils, Oxfordshire County Council, Ridge
Why Join Ecology by Design?
We’re not a typical consultancy. Forget time‑trackers, strict hierarchies and rigid hours – you manage your own time, work where you work best and take unlimited holidays when you need them. Our culture is dog‑friendly, relaxed, and energetic, with cross‑disciplinary challenges, social events and a focus on well‑being.
We value diversity and inclusion, support experimentation with new ideas (AI, novel methods, business development) and promise a trust‑first environment that prioritises flexibility, creativity and people.
Key Responsibilities
* Deliver and/or lead ecological consultancy work including habitat surveys (Phase 1/NVC/UK Habitats), protected species surveys, EcIAs, BNG assessments and mitigation design.
* Manage and deliver projects across the Home Counties, South and Midlands, ensuring high‑quality, client‑focused outcomes.
* Undertake technical reviews of ecological reports and support consistent quality standards across the team.
* Support, mentor and guide colleagues (depending on experience level).
* Contribute to business development activities and help shape the growth of the consultancy.
About You
Essential
* 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 (e.g. bats, GCN, dormouse) or demonstrable specialist expertise in another ecological field.
* Excellent communication and organisational skills, able to work independently and as part of a team.
* Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel as required.
Desirable
* Experience in EcIA, BNG, BREEAM or related ecological assessments.
* Experience of mentoring or line management (particularly for Principal‑level candidates).
* GIS experience (QGIS/ArcGIS – training available).
* CIEEM membership (or eligibility).
* Degree (or equivalent) in an ecology‑related discipline.
* Advanced or multiple species licences (e.g. Bat Low Impact, Badger).
* Experience or interest in client development and consultancy growth.
What We Offer
* Competitive salary and benefits package.
* Hybrid working: a flexible mix of home and office.
* Excellent training and development, including an unlimited external training budget and in‑house learning.
* Paid professional memberships (e.g. CIEEM).
* Apple computer and iPhone provided.
* Generous pension scheme.
* Unlimited annual leave and flexible working arrangements.
* Supportive, collaborative culture where your ideas and expertise are valued.
* A chance to help shape a growing consultancy’s culture and direction.
Company Culture
We maintain a healthy, team‑oriented culture with a focus on communication, well‑being and fun. Mental health support and flexible leave policies help our staff feel safe, healthy and valued.
We invite ecologists who wish to advance their careers and make a tangible environmental difference – whether stepping into senior responsibility or leading projects at a principal level – to apply.
Apply Today
Join a values‑driven consultancy where your work truly matters – to clients, communities and the planet.
Application Notice
We take your privacy seriously. You may be contacted via email, text or telephone. Your data is processed by our talent partner RR (Recruitment Revolution) on the basis of legitimate interests in fulfilling the recruitment process. Please refer to their Data Privacy Policy & Notice on their website for further details.
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