Principal Ecologist
Location: Oxfordshire
Salary: £35,000-£45,000 DOE
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
About Our Client
Our client is a respected environmental consultancy known for delivering innovative, evidence‑led ecological solutions across a wide range of development and conservation projects. They are seeking an experienced Principal Ecologist to take a senior leadership role within their Oxfordshire team, driving technical excellence, supporting strategic growth, and managing high‑profile projects.
The Role
As Principal Ecologist, you will lead complex ecological assignments, act as a technical expert within the team, and ensure the successful delivery of projects from inception to completion. You will play a key role in mentoring staff, strengthening client relationships, and contributing to the long‑term development of the ecology service line.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead, oversee, and review complex ecological assessments and EcIAs.
* Provide high‑level ecological advice to clients, project teams, and planning authorities.
* Manage major or multi‑disciplinary projects, ensuring quality, compliance, and timely delivery.
* Act as a subject‑matter expert in one or more specialisms (e.g., bats, habitats, licensing).
* Prepare and peer‑review technical reports, including EIAs, mitigation strategies, and licence applications.
* Mentor, supervise, and develop junior and mid‑level ecologists.
* Support business development through proposal writing, fee proposals, and client relationship management.
* Represent the ecology team at meetings, workshops, and public consultations when required.
Essential Requirements
* Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science or related field.
* Significant experience (typically 7+ years) within ecological consultancy.
* Strong understanding of UK wildlife legislation, planning policy, and national guidance.
* Demonstrable experience delivering and managing complex ecological projects.
* One or more protected species licences (e.g., bat, GCN, dormouse).
* Proven track record in client‑facing roles and project leadership.
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
* Full UK driving licence.
Desirable Skills
* Full CIEEM membership or eligibility.
* Experience contributing to or leading multi‑disciplinary environmental projects.
* Habitat creation/management design experience.
* Strong GIS or data management skills.
* Chartered Ecologist (CEcol) status or working towards it.
What's on Offer
* Competitive salary of £35,000-£45,000 DOE.
* Clear opportunities for progression into technical or team leadership roles.
* Supportive and collaborative consultancy culture.
* Flexible, hybrid working and a diverse project portfolio.
Contact James Hardie at Penguin Recruitment for more information
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