Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited
Your new company
My client is a leading environmental consultancy specialising in ecology, arboriculture, and landscape architecture, operating primarily across the South East, London, and East Anglia. They deliver high-quality, evidence-based advice on a wide range of prestigious projects and take a multidisciplinary approach to their work.
They are forward-thinking and committed to innovation, offering a collaborative and supportive environment where employees are encouraged to develop their skills and progress. With a strong focus on teamwork and professional growth, they provide an enjoyable and rewarding place to build your career.
Your new role
My client is seeking a proactive and experienced Senior or Principal Ecologist to join their team. This role focuses on ecology within the planning and development sector, leading surveys, assessments, and reporting to support planning applications.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading ecological surveys, including Phase 1 Habitat Surveys and protected species surveys
- Preparing Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIAs), Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) reports, and mitigation strategies
- Providing expert advice on biodiversity, habitat management, and environmental legislation
- Liaising with clients, local authorities, and statutory consultees
- Mentoring and supporting junior ecologists
- Attending site visits and stakeholder meetings and staying up to date with best practice and legislation
What you'll need to succeed
- Proven experience in a Consultant or Senior Ecologist position
- Strong knowledge of UK ecology, habitat types, protected species, and relevant legislation (e.g. Wildlife & Countryside Act, Habitats Regulations)
- Experience producing ecological reports independently
- Relevant degree (BSc/MSc in Ecology or related discipline)
- Membership of a professional body such as CIEEM (preferred)
- Full UK driving licence
- Strong project management, communication, and report-writing skills
What you'll get in return
- Competitive salary of £36,000 – £55,000
- Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays and Christmas closure
- Holiday sell-back scheme
- Access to Perkbox for wellbeing and discounts
- Confidential 24/7 helpline
- Weekly Pilates sessions and access to an onsite tennis court
- Funding for one professional membership
- Employee bonus scheme
- Regular social events, including a Christmas party and AGM
- Ongoing professional development, training, and CPD support
- Exposure to high-profile projects
- A supportive, collaborative team environment with clear career progression opportunities
What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career.
Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk
To apply for this job please visit www.reed.co.uk.
Make this application stronger
Use these quick checks before applying so your CV, interview preparation and job search are better matched to this vacancy.
Before you apply
Check the key details and make sure the role matches what you are looking for.
- Review the job title, company, location, salary and working pattern if provided.
- Check the skills, experience or qualifications requested by the employer.
- Make sure the commute, hours and contract type are realistic for you.
Tailor your CV
For Teaching Jobs, highlight the most relevant skills, experience and achievements linked to this type of work. Keep it honest, clear and focused on what the employer is asking for.
Use the CV Builder or browse Career Advice.
Prepare for interview
If your application is successful, prepare simple examples that show your motivation, strengths and suitability.
Keep searching smarter
Do not rely on one application. Keep searching similar roles and set up alerts so new vacancies reach you faster.