Senior Ecologist - Manchester
What if your next ecology role gave you more than surveys and reports?
This is an opportunity to join a growing environmental consultancy that's helping redefine how nature fits into modern urban life. From large residential schemes to ambitious green infrastructure and commercial developments, you'll play a key role in projects designed to make cities more sustainable, resilient, and biodiversity-led.
They're looking for a Senior Ecologist who wants real influence - someone ready to lead projects, mentor others, and help shape the future direction of an ambitious ecology team.
Why people join - and stay:
✔ Flexible hybrid working that genuinely supports work-life balance
✔ 25+ days annual leave + bank holidays + winter shutdown
✔ Paid professional memberships and strong CPD support
✔ Enhanced parental leave and wellbeing initiatives
✔ Clear career progression with mentoring and development pathways
✔ Collaborative culture where ecology is valued from day one of a project
You'll take the lead on a broad mix of ecology projects across the residential, commercial, and green infrastructure sectors - managing surveys, delivering technical reports, advising clients, and helping integrate biodiversity into design from the outset.
You'll also support and mentor junior ecologists while building strong relationships with clients, stakeholders, and planning teams.
What you'll be doing:
* Leading ecological input across multi-disciplinary projects
* Managing habitat and protected species surveys
* Producing ecological assessments, mitigation strategies, and technical reports
* Advising on Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) and nature-based solutions
* Supporting tenders, proposals, and client growth
* Mentoring junior team members and contributing to team development
What they're looking for:
* Strong consultancy experience within UK ecology
* Excellent understanding of planning policy and environmental legislation
* Strong report writing and communication skills
* CIEEM membership (or working towards it)
* Protected species licence (bat, GCN etc.) desirable
* Confident communicator with clients and regulators
* Full UK driving licence
If you're looking for a role where ecology has a real voice - not just a tick-box exercise - this could be the next step.
To apply, send your CV or contact Ashleigh Garner at Penguin Recruitment for a confidential chat