Principal Ecologist

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Principal Ecologist – South-East England (Location Flexible)

Department: Field Team

Location: Essex

Compensation: £45,000 – £55,000 per year

About Us

Ethos Environmental Planning Ltd is part of the Celnor Group, a network of specialist environmental, testing, inspection, and risk‑management businesses committed to protecting people, places, and the planet. Ethos is an environmental planning consultancy based in the world heritage city of Bath and works across the UK, providing decision‑making in relation to planning with a focus on ecology, green space, and biodiversity net gain.

About

the Opportunity

Ethos is looking for an experienced Principal Ecologist to help create, shape, and lead a new South‑East office. The role offers a rare chance to build a team from the ground up while enjoying the stability, support, and shared resources of an established consultancy.

Key Responsibilities Surveys & Fieldwork

• Conduct UK Habitat surveys, hedgerow assessments, and condition assessments
• Lead protected species surveys (e.g., bats, GCN, reptiles, dormouse, birds)
• Deliver ecological supervision including watching briefs, toolbox talks, and Ecological Clerk of Works duties

Ecological Assessment

• Lead and approve EcIAs, ES chapters, licence applications, mitigation strategies, and management plans
• Lead Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments using DEFRA Metric and related tools (BREEAM, Habitat Regulations, etc.)
• Ensure consistency, technical quality, and continuous improvement in ecological assessments
• Analyse ecological data, assess impacts, and apply the mitigation hierarchy to develop robust strategies
• Design and deliver ecological monitoring schemes
• Produce GIS mapping of habitats and ecological features
• Prepare and provide ecological evidence for appeals

Project Management

• Manage a diverse portfolio of projects, including complex programmes
• Lead communication with clients and stakeholders, offering expert ecological advice
• Attend project meetings and liaise with statutory and non‑statutory consultees
• Prepare and review quotes, invoices, budgets, and proposals
• Oversee survey planning, team resourcing, and workflow to ensure deadlines are met
• Coordinate operational procedures including timetables, reporting, and delivery standards

Business Management & Leadership

• Identify and pursue opportunities for new clients and project growth
• Implement systems to support efficiency and good practice
• Review and implement fee rates across the new office
• Ensure team capacity aligns with workflow, and support recruitment as the office grows
• Mentor and develop staff, delivering training sessions and leading appraisals
• Support the Managing Director with HR, H&S compliance, and staff wellbeing

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise

• Minimum 6 years’ experience in the ecology sector
• Relevant degree or equivalent professional experience
• Full CIEEM membership (or equivalent)
• Strong field skills and species identification expertise
• Experience designing and overseeing complex ecological surveys
• Proven ability to assess impacts and develop mitigation strategies
• Experience with protected species licensing; holding at least one personal licence
• Ability to lead and approve high‑quality EcIAs and ES chapters
• Comprehensive knowledge of relevant legislation, policy, and guidance
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Demonstrated leadership and team management experience
• Initiative, enthusiasm, and a commitment to continued learning
• Full UK driving licence
• Ability to work independently and manage your own workload

Job Benefits

• Senior role with genuine influence over practice and office development
• Part of a trusted and growing group of environmental consultancies
• Access to group‑wide learning programmes, CPD, and networking
• Work on projects that make a meaningful environmental impact
• 25 days annual leave (pro rata)
• Discretionary 9‑day fortnight (every other Friday off)
• Staff mentoring and support
• Flexible and hybrid working options
• TOIL and paid overtime
• Minimum 4 days formal training per year (including minimum 2 days external)
• Work‑related expenses covered, including mileage at £0.45/mile
• Statutory sickness and parental leave in line with current guidance
• Contributory pension scheme (up to 4% employer matched)

Seniority level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment type

Full‑time

Job function

Research, Analyst, and Information Technology

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