Senior Ecologist

• Type:
  Full Time
• Region: UK - South East
• Town/City:
  Tonbridge and Malling, Kent
• Posted: 30/06/2026
• Reference: 61841_

An established environmental consultancy is seeking a Senior Ecologist to join its growing team in the South East. This role offers the chance to work across a diverse portfolio of projects spanning conservation, infrastructure, water and energy sectors, supporting a wide range of public and private sector clients.

The successful candidate will play a key role within the terrestrial ecology team, delivering field surveys, ecological assessments and technical reporting while managing projects from inception through to completion. The role offers excellent scope for professional development and cross‑sector experience, working with specialists in hydrology, fisheries science, geomorphology and water quality.

This position suits an experienced ecologist looking to advance their career, with increasing responsibility for project management, client liaison and mentoring junior team members. A clear pathway to a Principal Ecologist role is available.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading and undertaking terrestrial ecology surveys such as Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, UK Habitat Classification surveys and protected species surveys (bats, dormice, amphibians, reptiles, otter, water vole and birds).
• Producing high‑quality ecological reports (PEA, EcIA, Environmental Statement chapters) and ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget and to a high technical standard.
• Contributing to tender preparation and business development activities, supporting wider ecology projects through data analysis and interpretation, and developing the ecology team through mentoring and knowledge sharing.

Required qualifications and skills:

• Degree in ecology or a related discipline.
• Strong experience in ecological consultancy, including project management and client‑facing responsibilities.
• Membership of CIEEM, or eligibility for membership.
• Expertise in botanical and habitat survey techniques, ecological reporting and leading protected species surveys.
• Good understanding of UK ecological legislation, planning policy and environmental regulations.
• Protected species licence and full UK driving licence.

Desirable additional experience:

• GIS mapping, Habitat Regulations Assessment, Environmental Impact Assessment or European Protected Species licensing.
• Mentoring junior ecologists.

The organisation offers a flexible hybrid working environment focused on collaboration, wellbeing and professional growth, and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where people are supported to develop, contribute and thrive.

Commitment to inclusiveness:
We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their ethnicity, race, gender, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, age or disability.