Pegasus Group is a leading development consultancy providing planning, design, environmental, economics, and heritage services across the UK. We are committed to sustainable, innovative, and high-quality solutions that add value to our clients’ projects. Our new in-house Nature and Biodiversity team will play a critical role in achieving this vision.
We are expanding and seeking to appoint Principal Ecologists across our offices to design and implement ecological strategies and deliver projects focusing on Biodiversity Net Gain services.
This role requires a strong ecological background, commercial awareness, and project management skills. You will lead multidisciplinary teams, mentor junior staff, and serve as the technical lead on high-profile projects in sectors such as infrastructure, energy, residential, and commercial development.
Key Responsibilities:
* Lead ecological projects across various sectors, managing surveys and assessments (e.g., UKHab, protected species, EcIA, HRA, BNG).
* Provide ecological input into Environmental Impact Assessments and planning applications.
* Advise clients on ecological constraints, mitigation, and enhancement opportunities.
* Lead BNG assessments using the Defra metric and develop bespoke BNG strategies, including green infrastructure and offsite solutions.
* Collaborate with planners, landscape architects, and design teams to integrate biodiversity considerations.
* Engage with statutory bodies to support ecological approaches and ensure compliance with legislation.
* Develop client relationships, contribute to fee proposals, and support tender processes.
* Mentor junior team members and uphold quality and safety standards.
Requirements:
* Degree in ecology or related environmental discipline.
* Minimum 8 years of professional ecological experience.
* Full CIEEM membership or eligibility, working towards chartership.
* Expertise in UK ecology, legislation, and planning systems.
* Knowledge of Biodiversity Net Gain.
* Proven experience managing complex ecological projects.
* Strong leadership, communication, and project management skills.
* Protected species licenses (e.g., bats, great crested newt, dormouse).
Desirable:
* Line management experience.
* Experience developing offsite BNG solutions or sourcing Biodiversity Units.
* Habitat creation or enhancement scheme experience.
* Additional protected species licenses.
We offer competitive remuneration and benefits, along with training and development opportunities to support your career growth. Learn more at our careers page.
At Pegasus Group, we value diversity and inclusion, fostering a culture where everyone can bring their authentic selves to work. We are committed to supporting our team and creating an inclusive environment.
How to Apply:
Please submit your application with an up-to-date CV and a cover letter explaining your interest in this role by clicking ‘Apply Now’. For technical issues or inquiries, contact recruitment@pegasusgroup.co.uk.
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