Senior/Principal Ecologist

Our client is seeking a highly motivated Senior or Principal Ecologist with 3–5 years of experience to join their growing team in Manchester. They are a multidisciplinary consultancy offering expertise in landscape architecture, urban design, ecology, arboriculture, and biodiversity net gain. Their collaborative approach supports clients across sectors, including residential, commercial, industrial, education, and infrastructure developments, by delivering sustainable, innovative solutions.

The ecology team delivers innovative and practical solutions, from ecological assessments to habitat restoration. Their multidisciplinary approach ensures integrated, sustainable project outcomes aligned with biodiversity goals. Based in Manchester, they handle projects of varying scales, presenting findings to regulators and public inquiries, and are committed to enhancing natural environments across sectors.

The Role

The successful candidate will lead and manage diverse ecological projects, ensuring high-quality outcomes while considering ecological challenges and opportunities. This role requires technical expertise, strong project management skills, and the ability to inspire and manage a team. The position also involves contributing to business growth and achieving strategic goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Leading complex ecological projects from client engagement through to delivery.
• Conducting and overseeing ecological surveys, including for protected species.
• Preparing and reviewing technical reports, such as Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) and ecological appraisals.
• Managing subconsultants and field teams during seasonal work.
• Mentoring and managing junior team members to foster a supportive environment.
• Engaging in business development and maintaining strong client relationships.
• Upholding quality, health, and safety standards in all project deliverables.

Essential Requirements

• A minimum of 3–5 years’ consultancy experience.
• A relevant degree and full membership of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM).
• In-depth knowledge of UK and EU wildlife legislation, planning policies, and ecological mitigation strategies.
• Proven expertise in ecological impact assessments, biodiversity net gain (BNG), and protected species licensing.
• Strong communication, financial management, and team coordination skills.
• Valid UK driving license and willingness to work flexible hours as needed.

Desirable Attributes

• Experience as a named ecologist on bat or great crested newt mitigation licenses.
• Proficiency in GIS and habitat regulations assessments.
• Mentoring and leadership experience.

About the Client

The client’s ecology team specializes in providing pragmatic and innovative solutions, ranging from ecological assessments to habitat restoration. Their multidisciplinary setup fosters integrated, sustainable project outcomes that align with ecological and biodiversity objectives. Based in Manchester, their projects span from small-scale developments to complex infrastructure schemes, where they frequently present findings to regulators and public inquiries.

This is an excellent opportunity to work with a team passionate about shaping and enhancing natural environments while delivering practical solutions for clients across diverse sectors.