Senior Ecologist

About the role

We are looking for an experienced and motivated Senior Ecologist to join our growing ecology team in Kent. This is an excellent opportunity for an ecologist with strong consultancy experience to take a lead role in delivering high-quality ecological advice, protected species work, Biodiversity Net Gain assessments and habitat-led solutions across a varied portfolio of projects.
You will manage projects from initial enquiry and survey design through to reporting, mitigation, licensing and client delivery. The role would suit someone who enjoys combining technical ecological work with project management, mentoring and practical problem-solving on sites across Kent and the wider South East.
Key responsibilities

• Lead and deliver ecological surveys, assessments and reporting, including Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, Ecological Impact Assessments, protected species surveys and Biodiversity Net Gain assessments.
• Plan, manage and coordinate fieldwork programmes, ensuring work is delivered safely, efficiently and to a high technical standard.
• Prepare and review clear, robust technical reports, mitigation strategies, habitat management plans and ecological input to planning submissions.
• Support protected species licence applications and advise clients on practical mitigation, enhancement and compliance measures.
• Use UKHab, BNG metric tools and GIS/QGIS to inform project design, reporting and biodiversity outcomes.
• Manage project budgets, timescales and client communications, maintaining strong relationships with clients, planners, contractors and consultees.
• Mentor Assistant and Consultant Ecologists, supporting their field skills, report writing and professional development.
• Contribute to business development through fee proposals, tender inputs and identifying opportunities for added value on projects.

About you

• A degree or postgraduate qualification in ecology, environmental science, biology or a related discipline.
• Typically five or more years’ experience in ecological consultancy or a comparable professional ecology role.
• Good working knowledge of UK wildlife legislation, planning policy, protected species guidance, UKHab and Biodiversity Net Gain requirements.
• Experience delivering and reviewing PEAs, EcIAs, protected species reports and ecological mitigation or management plans.
• At least one protected species survey licence would be desirable; bat, great crested newt, dormouse, barn owl or reptile experience would be particularly useful.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the confidence to advise clients and liaise with project teams.
• Good organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects, deadlines and seasonal survey demands.
• CIEEM membership, or eligibility for membership, and a commitment to continuing professional development.
• A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle, with willingness to travel to sites across Kent and the South East.

What we offer

• Opportunity to lead projects, shape ecological outcomes and progress within a supportive team
• Supportive and collaborative working environment.
• Hybrid and flexible working arrangements where possible.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Ongoing CPD and professional development support.

We are committed to sustainable working practices and recognise the physical and cognitive demands of nocturnal survey work and actively prioritise recovery. Alongside flexible working and a robust TOIL system, we apply clear limits on the number of nocturnal surveys staff undertake per week and ensure that all staff have a full week free from nocturnal work each month, including during the busiest parts of the survey season.

Location

The role is preferably Kent (Canterbury) based, though hybrid working is supported. Candidates must be willing to travel for site work and meetings as required.