Senior Ecologist - Shaftesbury, Dorset
Salary: £35,000 - £45,000 (DOE)
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
Location: Shaftesbury, Dorset
Why Join?
Step into a role where your ecological expertise truly makes a difference. Our client is looking for an experienced Senior Ecologist to join their expanding team in beautiful Dorset - helping to shape a more sustainable future through meaningful, high-impact environmental work.
You'll work on a variety of rewarding projects, from biodiversity enhancement and habitat creation to protected species surveys and ecological impact assessments. This is your chance to combine fieldwork, project leadership, and mentorship in a role that values both professional growth and personal balance.
What's on Offer
✅ Competitive salary between £35,000 - £45,000 (DOE)
✅ Hybrid working for better work-life balance
✅ Time Off In Lieu (TOIL) system - your time is respected and rewarded
✅ Annual performance bonus scheme
✅ Ongoing training and CPD opportunities to support your career progression
The Role
As a Senior Ecologist, you'll play a pivotal role in leading and delivering a diverse portfolio of ecological projects. You'll work independently and collaboratively, supporting the wider team to deliver excellent ecological outcomes.
Your key responsibilities will include:
Leading and managing ecological surveys, assessments, and mitigation work
Preparing and reviewing technical reports, including EIAs and biodiversity strategies
Providing mentorship and technical support to junior ecologists
Liaising confidently with clients, planners, and statutory bodies
Managing projects to ensure they're delivered on time, on budget, and to a high professional standard
About You
You'll be an experienced and motivated ecologist with a genuine passion for protecting and enhancing the natural world. You'll bring both technical expertise and a proactive, solutions-focused mindset.
Essential:
Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related discipline
Proven experience in ecological consultancy, ideally at Senior level
Strong working knowledge of UK wildlife legislation and planning policy
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Full UK driving licence and flexibility for occasional travel
Desirable:
Protected species licences (e.g. bats, GCN)
Experience mentoring or supervising junior staff
Ready to Make an Impact?
If you're ready to take the next step in your ecology career - leading projects that make a tangible difference to biodiversity and the environment - we'd love to hear from you.
Please contact James Hardie at Penguin Recruitment