Wildlife jobs in United Kingdom

Senior / Principal Ecologist

Salary: £40,000-50,000

Location: UK (flexible – offices across Cambridge and Peterborough)

Type: Permanent | Hybrid working available

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced ecologist to lead and deliver high-quality ecological input across a wide range of projects. You’ll take ownership of ecological assessments, habitat design and nature recovery work, collaborating across disciplines to deliver nature-positive outcomes.

As a senior member of the ecology team, you’ll guide projects from inception to completion, provide technical direction, and play a key role in mentoring junior colleagues and maintaining client relationships.

Our client is a leading consultancy delivering transformative environmental and infrastructure projects across the UK. Their 130-strong ecology team includes some of the most respected professionals in the industry – from Fellows of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) to its current President.

They pride themselves on a flexible, inclusive and supportive culture where wellbeing and personal growth are at the heart of every decision.

• Lead and undertake ecological assessments and habitat design.
• Develop innovative, pragmatic mitigation and compensation strategies.
• Deliver high-quality ecological reports and outputs in line with best practice.
• Act as project ecology lead, coordinating multidisciplinary input.
• Manage tasks, budgets and timelines effectively.
• Mentor and support early-career ecologists.
• Engage with clients and stakeholders to maintain strong working relationships.

• Passion for ecology and nature-positive design.
• Sound knowledge of UK wildlife legislation and ecological policy.
• Experience conducting UKHab surveys, PEAs, EcIAs and BNG assessments.
• Excellent report-writing and communication skills.
• Strong botanical identification skills (FISC Level 3+ or equivalent).
• Experience in protected species survey, mitigation and licensing.
• Track record of managing ecological deliverables and projects.
• Member of CIEEM (or equivalent).
• Full UK driving licence.

• Competitive salary and tailored benefits package.
• Hybrid and flexible working arrangements.
• Inclusive, supportive working culture.
• Extensive professional development and training opportunities.
• Genuine focus on wellbeing and work-life balance.

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. Some projects may require eligibility for UK security clearance (minimum 5 years’ UK residency).

This role offers a clear progression pathway into leadership and technical specialism within ecology. You’ll have the chance to influence national-scale projects, shape environmental policy, and mentor the next generation of ecologists.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.