Principal Ecologist

Location: Cambridgeshire

Principal Ecologist - Cambridge

A respected UK environmental consultancy is looking to appoint a Principal Ecologist to join its growing Cambridge team. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced ecologist ready to take on a leadership role within a well-established consultancy that is part of a wider global environmental and engineering group. As Principal Ecologist, you will lead a varied portfolio of projects, providing technical direction and mentoring a growing team of ecologists.

You will play a key role in project management, client liaison, ecological assessment, and reporting, while contributing to integrated, multi-disciplinary design and planning teams.

What's on Offer;

Competitive salary, reflective of experience and market value

Flexible and hybrid working options to support work-life balance

Involvement in high-profile projects across infrastructure, renewables, water, and the built environment

Clear career progression with structured professional development

A collaborative and inclusive culture, with access to multidisciplinary technical specialists

Comprehensive benefits package including private healthcare, pension, and generous annual leave

Strong company-wide commitment to sustainability and biodiversity net gain

Key Responsibilities ;

Lead and deliver ecological input from project inception through to completion

Design, manage, and oversee ecological surveys and assessments, including EIA and HRA

Provide technical review and quality assurance of reports and deliverables

Build and maintain strong client relationships, supporting business development initiatives

Mentor and support junior team members in their professional development

Ensure all work aligns with current legislation, industry best practice, and client expectations

You will ideally have;

Extensive experience within ecological consultancy or a similar environment

Strong working knowledge of UK and EU wildlife legislation and planning policy

Demonstrated experience managing ecological components of complex projects

Technical expertise in one or more specialist areas (e.g., bats, great crested newts, ornithology, botany)

Full Member of CIEEM (or eligible)

Confident in project management and client-facing responsibilities

Protected species licences (desirable)

Full UK driving licence

Interested in taking the next step in your ecological career? Apply today or contact Ashleigh Garner at Penguin Recruitment for more information