Senior / Principal Ecologist
Location: Haywards Heath or Portsmouth
Salary: Competitive
Type: Permanent, Full-Time
Overview
Our client delivers a wide range of environmental and engineering projects, with a strong focus on nature-based solutions, climate resilience and sustainable development. Their work spans habitat creation, river restoration, natural flood management and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), supporting clients across the public, private and third sectors.
This is an opportunity to play a key role in delivering meaningful environmental outcomes while working within a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment.
The Role
The successful candidate will provide technical leadership across a diverse portfolio of ecological projects, taking responsibility for both delivery and client engagement.
Working closely with engineers, geomorphologists, planners and other specialists, you will contribute to the design and implementation of practical, evidence-led solutions.
Key responsibilities include:
Leading ecological surveys, assessments and mitigation strategies
Delivering Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments and advising on habitat creation
Managing projects to meet programme, budget and quality expectations
Producing high-quality reports including PEAs, EcIAs and HRAs
Supporting and mentoring junior team members
Contributing to business development, including bids and client engagement
Collaborating across multidisciplinary teams to deliver integrated project outcomes
Candidate Requirements
Advance TRS is seeking candidates with strong consultancy experience and a proactive, collaborative approach. The ideal candidate will demonstrate:
Solid experience in ecological consultancy, including project management and client-facing work
Strong field skills across habitats and protected species (licences desirable)
Experience delivering BNG assessments and applying biodiversity metrics
Good understanding of UK environmental legislation and planning policy
Ability to produce clear, accurate technical reports in line with industry standards
Confident communication skills with clients, regulators and internal teams
Qualifications & Memberships
Degree in Ecology or a related discipline
Membership of a relevant professional body (e.g. working towards or holding Chartered status)
Full UK driving licence
Desirable Experience
Experience in river restoration, natural flood management or water-based environments
Knowledge of the Water Framework Directive (WFD)
Experience as an Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW)
GIS capability and spatial data analysis
Experience working on large or complex infrastructure or environmental projects
Working Arrangements
This role offers flexibility, with a mix of office, home and site-based working. Travel may be required depending on project needs.
Why Apply?
Opportunity to work on environmentally focused, purpose-driven projects
Collaborative and supportive team environment
Clear opportunities for career development and progression
Flexible working arrangements and competitive benefits We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status