Ecologist

Contract Type:
Permanent

Working Hours: 40 hours per week, Monday-Friday

Take ownership of projects. Deliver expert ecological advice. Shape better outcomes for nature.You're an ecologist who enjoys solving problems, building relationships and seeing projects through from start to finish. You combine strong technical knowledge with a practical approach, and you take pride in delivering high-quality work that balances ecological requirements with client needs.

Location:
Devon or surrounding areas
Salary:
Competitive
Contract Type:
Permanent
Working Hours: 40 hours per week, Monday-Friday
Take ownership of projects. Deliver expert ecological advice. Shape better outcomes for nature.You're an ecologist who enjoys solving problems, building relationships and seeing projects through from start to finish. You combine strong technical knowledge with a practical approach, and you take pride in delivering high-quality work that balances ecological requirements with client needs.

At Ground Control, you'll join a growing Ecology Team where you'll have the opportunity to lead your own projects, influence project decisions and contribute to meaningful environmental improvements. From Biodiversity Net Gain and habitat restoration initiatives to protected species surveys and ecological impact assessments, you'll play a key role in helping clients navigate environmental challenges while delivering positive outcomes for nature.

In this role, you'll manage ecological projects from initial enquiry through to delivery, providing high-quality technical advice and building trusted relationships with clients and stakeholders.

• Deliver UKHab and protected species surveys, providing the data and insight needed to support planning, development and biodiversity objectives.
• Produce high-quality technical reports, including PEAs, BNG Assessments, EcIAs, Habitat Management Plans, Protected Species Reports and other ecological deliverables that help clients make informed decisions.
• Analyse ecological data and develop practical mitigation, enhancement and compensation measures that achieve positive environmental outcomes.
• Manage ecological projects from inception to completion, coordinating survey programmes, timescales, resources and project delivery.
• Prepare fee proposals, quotations and tender submissions, helping to support sustainable business growth and project success.
• Act as a trusted point of contact for clients, contractors, planners and stakeholders, providing clear and credible ecological advice throughout project life cycles.
• Support and mentor Assistant Ecologists, sharing knowledge, reviewing work and helping develop the capability of the wider team.
• Contribute to continuous improvement by promoting best practice, maintaining high technical standards and identifying opportunities to enhance project delivery.

• The opportunity to manage a varied portfolio of ecology projects across multiple sectors and habitats.
• Autonomy to take ownership of your work while being supported by experienced Senior and Principal Ecologists.
• Exposure to Biodiversity Net Gain, habitat restoration, protected species licensing and complex ecological challenges.
• A role where your technical expertise directly influences environmental outcomes and client success.
• Opportunities to broaden your experience, develop specialisms and progress your ecology career.
• A collaborative and supportive team environment where knowledge sharing and professional development are actively encouraged.

• A degree (or equivalent qualification) in Ecology, Environmental Science or a related discipline.
• A minimum of three years' ecological consultancy or relevant ecological field experience.
• Membership of CIEEM, ideally Associate Member level or above.
• At least one protected species licence and experience leading or supporting licensed survey work.
• Strong knowledge of UK wildlife legislation, planning policy and ecological best practice.
• Experience undertaking UKHab surveys, protected species surveys and technical ecological reporting.
• Excellent project management and organisational skills with the ability to balance multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, with confidence engaging clients, contractors and project teams.
• A collaborative and solutions-focused approach, with a genuine passion for delivering high-quality ecological outcomes.
• Experience with GIS systems, Biodiversity Net Gain assessments or infrastructure…