Principal Ecologist

Via East Midlands Limited; West Bridgford; Hybrid; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional environmental consultancy in West Bridgford is seeking a Principal Ecologist to lead their ecology team. The role involves managing project delivery, providing ecological expertise, and ensuring compliance with relevant legislation. Ideal candidates will have a relevant degree, chartership, and experience in ecological surveys and assessments. The company offers a competitive salary, hybrid working options, and opportunities for career growth.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Hybrid Working

Employee discounts and benefits

Additional leave

Free onsite parking

Career growth opportunities

Qualifications

• Minimum Level 1 Natural England Bat Licence with at least 1 other protected species licence.
• Strong ICT skills in ecological assessment applications.

Responsibilities

• Manage the ecology team for successful project delivery.
• Provide expert ecological advice for compliance with legislation.
• Identify market opportunities for ecology services.

Skills

Ecological survey and assessment

Ecological mitigation design

Strong knowledge of UK and European legislation

GIS software competence

Education

Relevant degree

Chartership or equivalent experience

Job description

Principal Ecologist

Via East Midlands are currently seeking a Principal Ecologist to join our Environmental Management & Design Team based out of our West Bridgford Office.

Who we are?

At Via East Midlands, the value and impact of our work has never been more significant, and we’re excited to share this journey with you! If you’re looking to make a real difference in your local communities while engaging in dynamic design and infrastructure projects, we might just be the perfect fit for you!

As we continue to grow, we’re on the lookout for talented individuals in the Midlands. We believe diversity strengthens our team and enhances the impact we make in Nottinghamshire communities.

Designing roads, improving transport, and driving sustainable solutions—we’re shaping the future of Nottinghamshire’s highways to create a safer, more connected community for everyone.

Your ideas, Your community, Your impact.

What you’ll do:

• Effectively manage the ecology team to ensure successful delivery of the teams work programme.
• Implement and manage the provision of ecology expertise and project delivery to achieve quality, programme and financial targets.
• Manage the provision of ecology expertise in delivery of team disciplines as part of planning process, which may include provision of expert witness role at inquiry, to achieve compliance with legislation, national and local policies
• Provide expert ecological advice to colleagues, clients or third parties to support compliance with legislation and delivery of projects.
• Identify development and market opportunities to contribute to the growth of the ecology service thereby supporting achievement of business plan objectives.
• Hold team members to account to comply with internal and external standards of statutory responsibilities, duties, policies and procedures.

What we’re seeking:

• Relevant degree and Chartership, or equivalent post qualification experience / knowledge gained through experience in an ecological or landscape planning consultancy, full CIEEM membership and ongoing CPD requirements eligible for Chartership.
• A broad background in Ecological survey and assessment including preparing chapters for Environmental Statements, ecological mitigation design / delivery (including Ecological Clerk of Works role) and hold a minimum Level 1 Natural England Bat Licence in combination with at least 1 other protected species licence.
• Strong knowledge of relevant UK and European legislation, policy and guidance along with a good understanding/experience of Habitats Regulations Assessment and Biodiversity Net Gain Calculations.
• Strong ICT skills including competence in specialist computer applications used to support ecological or landscape visual impact assessments including GIS software packages.
• Full UK Drivers Licence.

What can we offer?

• Competitive salary.
• Hybrid Working.
• Employee discounts and benefits.
• Additional leave.
• Free onsite parking.
• Career growth opportunities within the company.

Ready to join us and make a positive impact? Apply now!