Senior Ecologist

An established environmental consultancy is seeking an experienced Senior Ecologist to join its growing team.

This role offers a varied workload across infrastructure, construction, and development projects, combining fieldwork, technical leadership, and project delivery. You'll work closely with project managers and senior colleagues, acting as a technical lead on ecological matters while supporting junior team members and ensuring projects are delivered to a high professional standard.

Key Responsibilities Lead and deliver protected species surveys, including bats. Act as technical ecological lead across a range of projects. Undertake and manage Ecological Clerk of Works duties on site. Complete UKHab / Phase 1 surveys and Biodiversity Net Gain assessments. Support the preparation of HRAs, mitigation licences, and EIA ecology inputs. Assist with project coordination from inception through to completion.

Ensure compliance with ecological legislation, licences, and planning conditions. Review and guide the work of junior ecologists. What You'll Bring Degree in ecology or a related environmental discipline. Minimum 4 years' UK experience in ecological consultancy or related sector. Ideally a Bat licence holder (Level
1) or any other species licenses. Strong experience in protected species and habitat surveys. Sound understanding of the planning system, including BNG. Proven technical report writing and quality assurance skills. Confident communicator with clients, contractors, and stakeholders. Ability to manage workloads and coordinate surveys effectively. Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel and work survey hours. Desirable:
Membership of CIEEM (or working towards chartership). Experience producing protected species licences. Background in infrastructure, transport, or property development projects. Additional protected species licences (GCN, dormice, reptiles, barn owls).

Experience with EIAs, HRAs, and GIS mapping. Salary & Benefits Competitive salary based on experience. Remote working and site visits. Company car or car allowance with mileage. Flexible working hours and hybrid arrangements. 25 days annual leave  bank holidays  birthday leave. Pension scheme. Ongoing training and professional development opportunities. Why Apply?

This role offers the chance to step into a senior position within a supportive consultancy, delivering high-quality ecological services on diverse and meaningful projects. You'll benefit from flexibility, strong career development, and the opportunity to make a real impact across the environmental sector. When applying to any role through Cobalt, your CV will never be shared with a client without your prior consent.

Apply in confidence below or get in touch with me for a confidential discussion about the position via or .