Senior / Principal Ecologist
Step out of the ordinary and shape the future of ecology. At Ecology by Design, we’re redefining what it means to be an ecological consultant – blending scientific rigour with creativity, innovation, and a genuine commitment to restoring nature. Here, your expertise isn’t boxed in by bureaucracy or lost in endless process. It drives real‑world change.
If you’re a Senior or Principal Ecologist ready to take ownership of your work, influence project outcomes, and lead with purpose, this is your moment. You’ll join a passionate, forward‑thinking team where autonomy, trust and technical excellence go hand in hand – and where your ideas shape landscapes, policy, and the next generation of ecological practice.
Role at a Glance
* Title: Ecologist (Senior / Principal Level)
* Location: Within 100 miles of Oxford / Chalgrove
* Salary: Negotiable, depending on expertise
* Contract: Full‑time, Permanent – part‑time and flexible working considered
* Pedigree: CIEEM Registered Practice, Certified “Great Place to Work”
* Clients include: English Heritage, Knight Frank, Savills, Oxfordshire County Council, Ridge
Why Join Ecology by Design
We’re not a typical corporate consultancy – you manage your own hours, work where you work best and take unlimited holidays when you need them. Our offices are dog‑friendly, relaxed and full of energy. We nurture diversity, inclusion and creativity, backing innovation over bureaucracy.
* Drive positive change to how people live with, work in and value the environment
* Have a constant drive for quality and client satisfaction
Key Responsibilities
* Deliver and/or lead ecological consultancy work – habitat surveys (Phase 1 / NVC / UK Habitats), protected species surveys, EcIAs, Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments and mitigation design
* Manage and deliver projects across the Home Counties, South and Midlands, ensuring high‑quality, client‑focused outcomes
* Undertake technical reviews of ecological reports and support consistent quality standards across the team
* Support, mentor and guide colleagues depending on experience level
* Contribute to business development activities and help shape the growth of the consultancy
About You
* A genuine passion for ecology and environmental conservation
* Strong technical experience in habitat and/or protected species surveys
* Survey licence for at least one protected species (e.g. bats, GCN, dormouse) or demonstrable specialist expertise in another ecological field
* Excellent communication and organisational skills, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team
* A full UK driving licence and willingness to travel as required
* Experience in EcIA, BNG, BREEAM, or related ecological assessments
* Experience of mentoring or line management (particularly for Principal‑level candidates)
* GIS experience (QGIS/ArcGIS – training available)
* CIEEM membership (or eligibility)
* Degree (or equivalent) in an ecology‑related discipline
* Advanced or multiple species licences (e.g. Bat Low Impact, Badger)
* Experience or interest in client development and consultancy growth
What We Offer
* Competitive salary and benefits package
* Hybrid working – a flexible mix of home and office base
* Excellent training and development, including an unlimited external training budget and in‑house learning
* Apple computer and iPhone provided
* Unlimited annual leave and flexible working arrangements to support a healthy work‑life balance
* A supportive, collaborative culture where your ideas and expertise are valued
* A chance to help shape a growing consultancy’s culture and direction
Company Culture
We maintain a healthy, team‑oriented, supportive culture. Communication is key to all that we do, both with clients and across the company. We prioritise the health and well‑being of our staff, encouraging appropriate leave and providing in‑house mental health support.
If you’re an ecologist looking to progress your career and make a tangible difference – whether stepping into senior responsibility or leading projects at a principal level – we’d love to hear from you.
Apply today and join a values‑driven consultancy where your work truly matters – to our clients, our communities and the planet.
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