Principal Ecologist - Cambridge
A leading UK environmental consultancy is seeking a Principal Ecologist to join their Cambridge-based team. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced and forward‑thinking ecologist to take the next step in their career within a supportive and well‑established consultancy, which forms part of a larger global environmental and engineering group.
Benefits
* Competitive salary aligned with experience and market rates
* Flexible/hybrid working to support work‑life balance
* Exciting, high‑profile projects across infrastructure, renewables, water, and built environment sectors
* Clear progression pathways and structured career development
* Collaborative, inclusive team culture with access to technical experts across disciplines
* Comprehensive benefits package, including private healthcare, pension, and generous leave policies
* Strong commitment to sustainability and biodiversity net gain
The Role
The Principal Ecologist will lead on a diverse portfolio of projects, provide technical oversight, and mentor a growing team of ecologists. The role includes project management, client engagement, high‑level ecological assessment and reporting, and input into multi‑disciplinary design and planning teams.
Key responsibilities include
* Leading and delivering ecological inputs on a range of projects from concept to completion
* Designing and overseeing ecological surveys and assessments (including EIA and HRA)
* Providing technical review and quality assurance of reports
* Managing client relationships and contributing to business development
* Supporting the development and mentoring of junior ecologists
* Ensuring work is delivered in line with current legislation, best practice, and client expectations
You will ideally have
* Significant experience in ecological consultancy or a similar role
* Strong understanding of UK and EU wildlife legislation and planning policy
* Proven experience managing ecological aspects of complex projects
* Expertise in one or more specialist areas (e.g. bats, great crested newts, ornithology, botany)
* Full member of CIEEM (or eligible)
* Project management and client‑facing experience
* Protected species licences (desirable)
* Full UK driving licence
Interested in this opportunity? Please apply today or contact Ashleigh Garner at Penguin Recruitment
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