Senior Ecologist

My client is a leading independent consultancy working at the forefront of nature, sustainability and the built environment. Guided by strong values and a collaborative culture, they support clients across the UK and internationally to deliver projects that enhance biodiversity, strengthen climate resilience and create long-term environmental value.

Their Midlands and South West team is made up of around 35 experienced ecologists and nature-based specialists within a wider multi-disciplinary Climate and Sustainability Services group. The team works across a diverse and exciting portfolio including renewable energy, water and transport infrastructure, biodiversity strategy and policy, due diligence, and corporate biodiversity reporting.

This breadth of work provides outstanding opportunities to develop new skills and shape meaningful outcomes for nature and communities.

My client is seeking a Senior Ecologist to join their growing Midlands and South West team on a permanent basis. The role can be based in Birmingham, Bristol or Cardiff, with flexible working options available.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced ecologist looking to take a leading role in project delivery, mentor junior staff, and influence high‑profile projects with real environmental impact.

• Lead and manage the delivery of ecological inputs across projects from bid stage through to completion, including client engagement, resourcing, budgets and programme management
• Select, manage and coordinate sub‑consultants and specialist inputs
• Line manage and mentor junior ecologists, supporting their professional development
• Advise on biodiversity design, restoration and enhancement, green infrastructure and wider nature-based solutions
• Prepare and review high‑quality technical reports, including:
  • Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEA)
  • Species survey reports
  • Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA)
  • Habitats Regulations Appraisals (HRA)
  • Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) Assessments
  • Habitat Management and Maintenance Plans (HMMPs)
• Plan, manage and undertake field surveys, including Phase 1 Habitat / UKHab surveys and protected species surveys (e.g. bats, great crested newts, badger)
• Analyse survey data and oversee the production of GIS outputs

• A bachelor’s degree in Ecology, Zoology, Geography, Biology or a related discipline (postgraduate qualification advantageous but not essential)
• Associate or Full membership of CIEEM (or equivalent), working towards Chartership
• Proven experience delivering ecological surveys and assessments, including EcIA and HRA
• Experience in habitat design, management and monitoring
• Knowledge of BNG and environmental metrics, with exposure to natural capital, biodiversity strategies, TNFD, IFC Performance Standard 6 or related nature‑policy frameworks being advantageous
• Experience managing sub‑consultants within a consultancy or planning environment
• A full UK driving licence and willingness to travel as required

My client offers the chance to do purpose‑driven work that genuinely makes a difference — for nature, communities and your career.

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Flexible and hybrid working options
• Private medical insurance, life assurance, income protection and accident cover
• A wide range of flexible benefits to support health, wellbeing and work‑life balance
• Ongoing learning, development and progression opportunities
• A collaborative, inclusive culture where individuality is valued and expertise is respected

My client is committed to building a diverse, inclusive and supportive workplace. Applications are welcomed from individuals of all backgrounds, identities and experiences. Different perspectives are actively encouraged and seen as essential to delivering excellent outcomes for clients and the environment.