Principal Ecologist - East Anglia

Join us in shaping a future where nature and business thrive together

At Thomson, our purpose is simple but powerful:
to enable nature and business to thrive together
.

We’re building a reputation as the UK’s most
innovative, pragmatic and fast-growing environmental consultancy
. Our ambition is to be the
first choice for clients
and the
employer of choice for environmental professionals
.

With offices across the UK, our multidisciplinary experts deliver exceptional outcomes across terrestrial and freshwater ecology, hydrology, marine science, GIS, habitat management, arboriculture and environmental impact assessment.

We are seeking an experienced ecologist to play a key role in growing ourEast Anglia Ecology Team.

You will combine
technical expertise and business development
to secure and deliver complex ecology projects from tender through to report delivery.

You will work closely with clients and colleagues to provide best-practice advice, ensure compliance with legislation and policy, and support the successful delivery of high-quality environmental outcomes.

You will handle technically challenging tasks, including European Protected Species Licence (EPSL) applications, Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIAs), and Habitats Regulations Assessments (HRA).

Our experienced ecologists often coach mentor and/or line manage more junior members of the team.

• Lead and deliver large, complex ecological projects
• Provide expert guidance on legislation, policy and best practice
• Review and approve technical reports and deliverables
• Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget and to a high standard

• Win new work through bids, tenders and client engagement
• Build and maintain strong client relationships

• Experience in environmental consultancy
• Strong background in ecology, with an ecological degree or similar
• Track record of winning work and building client relationships

• Strong knowledge of ecological survey techniques, legislation and policy
• Advanced field skills in one or more specialist areas, as well as holding a protected species licence.
• Experience delivering high-quality reports and assessments

• Excellent communication and organisational skills
• Ability to manage people, budgets and multiple projects
• Proactive, collaborative and solutions-focused approach
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle with business insurance

All applicants must be based in the UK with the Right to Work in the UK.

At Thomson, we strive to be the very best at what we do—for our clients and for each other.

We believe in
One Thomson
: valuing every individual’s unique skills and experiences, and working together to deliver exceptional service.

Our people are our greatest asset. We are proud of our
friendly, supportive and can-do culture
, where nothing is too much trouble. We live and breathe our
RISE values – Respect, Integrity, Support and Excellence
—and we are constantly evolving, with your voice helping shape our future.

We actively promote a
healthy work-life balance
, offering flexibility and a supportive environment where people can thrive. We embrace new challenges, work collaboratively, and celebrate success together.

We are passionate about
career development
. You’ll have access to:

• Industry-accredited external training
• Specialist-led internal training
• Opportunities to work across disciplines
• The chance to contribute to and lead
  high-profile, once-in-a-lifetime projects

We also offer a competitive benefits package, including:

• 25 days annual leave
• Enhanced stakeholder pension scheme
• Life insurance
• Discounted gym membership
• Paid professional memberships
• Clothing allowance
• Performance-related rewards and long service awards
• Free parking
• Regular social and company events

We are also committed to giving back, with strong involvement in
charity fundraising and local community initiatives
.

As an equal opportunities employer, Thomson is committed to the fair and equal treatment of all current and prospective employees. We do not tolerate discrimination of any kind.

We are building a
diverse and inclusive workplace
and strongly encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds. We believe diversity strengthens our team and enhances the work we do.

If you’re a skilled and motivated professional looking for a role where you can lead, influence and deliver meaningful environmental impact, we’d love to hear from you.