Principal / Associate Ecologist - Launch Your Own Ecology Office
Building Biodiversity Better
Step out of the ordinary and shape the future of ecology. 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 drives real‑world change.
The Role at a Glance
* Position: Principal / Associate Ecologist
* Location: UK South East / Midlands
* Salary: Negotiable, depending on expertise
* Contract: Full‑time, Permanent – Part‑time and flexible working considered
* Customer portfolio: English Heritage, Knight Frank, Savils, Oxfordshire County Council, Ridge
* Pedigree: CIEEM Registered Practice, Certified “Great Place to Work”
Why Join?
We’re an independent, people‑first ecology business built on trust, flexibility, and creativity. Forget rigid hierarchies and timesheets—managing your own hours and taking unlimited holidays is the norm. Our offices are dog‑friendly, relaxed, and full of energy, fostering a culture that values diversity, innovation, and continuous learning.
Key Responsibilities
* Deliver and/or lead a range of ecological consultancy work, including 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 maintain 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
Essential
* 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, ability to work independently and as part of a team.
* A full UK driving licence and willingness to travel as required.
Desirable
* 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.
* Paid professional memberships (e.g., CIEEM).
* Apple computer and iPhone provided.
* Generous pension scheme.
* 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, offering in‑house mental health support and encouraging appropriate leave throughout projects. Quality and timeliness of surveying and reporting are core to our business, but we also believe in having fun.
Apply Today
Join a values‑driven consultancy where your work truly matters— to our clients, our communities, and the planet.
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