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