Senior Ecologist

Ethos Environmental Planning Ltd; Bath; Hybrid; GBP 32,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

An environmental planning consultancy in Bath is seeking a Senior Ecologist to lead habitat surveys and conduct ecological assessments. The role requires a minimum of 4 years’ experience and offers a salary between £32,000 – £39,000 per year. Benefits include flexible working hours, project leadership opportunities, and a contributory pension scheme.

Benefits

25 days leave (pro-rata)

Discretionary 9-day fortnight

Flexible working hours

Contributory pension scheme

Qualifications

• Minimum 4 years’ experience as an ecologist, including the above tasks.

Responsibilities

• Lead UK habitat surveys and condition assessments.
• Conduct Biodiversity Net Gain assessments using DEFRA metrics.
• Manage a range of projects, including complex survey programmes.

Skills

Fieldwork and species identification skills

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Team collaboration

UK driving licence

Enthusiasm and initiative

Education

Relevant degree or equivalent experience

Associate membership of CIEEM (or equivalent)

Job description

Senior Ecologist

Ethos Environmental Planning Ltd, part of the Celnor Group, is an environmental planning consultancy based in Bath, UK. The role reports to the Field Team Lead and is based at our Bath office. Salary is £32,000 – £39,000 per year.

Key Responsibilities

• Surveys & Fieldwork
  • Lead UK habitat surveys and condition assessments.
  • Lead protected species surveys such as great crested newts, bats, reptiles, dormouse, and birds.
  • Deliver ecological supervision including watching briefs, toolbox talks, and Ecological Clerk of Works duties.
• Ecological Assessment
  • GIS mapping of habitats and ecological features.
  • Conduct Biodiversity Net Gain assessments using DEFRA metrics and similar guidelines.
  • Prepare survey reports, Environmental Statement chapters, licence applications, management plans, mitigation strategies, and other documents.
  • Analyse and interpret ecological data in detail.
  • Assess development impacts and develop mitigation recommendations and monitoring schemes.
  • Apply current ecological policy, legislation, and guidance.
  • Undertake quality assurance of reports.
• Project Management
  • Manage a range of projects, including complex survey programmes.
  • Lead communication with clients and stakeholders.
  • Attend project meetings and provide ecological advice.
  • Consult with statutory and non‑statutory consultees.
  • Prepare quotes, invoices, and manage project budgets.

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise

• Minimum 4 years’ experience as an ecologist, including the above tasks.
• Relevant degree or equivalent experience.
• Associate membership of CIEEM (or equivalent).
• Strong fieldwork and species identification skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to lead and work collaboratively within teams.
• Enthusiasm and initiative for learning.
• Ability to manage own time and workload independently.
• Hold a UK driving licence.

Why Join Us?

• Lead projects and practice in a senior, influential role.
• Work as part of a growing and respected consultancy.
• Access to group‑wide learning programmes, career development and networks.
• Contribute to projects that make a real environmental impact.

Benefits

• 25 days leave (pro‑rata).
• Discretionary 9‑day fortnight giving every other Friday off.
• Staff support and mentoring.
• Flexible working hours, including working from home.
• Minimum 4 days formal training per year (at least 2 days external).
• Work‑related expenses paid, including mileage at £0.45 per mile.
• Statutory Sick Pay and maternity leave as per government guidance.
• Contributory pension scheme with up to 4% salary contribution matched by employer.