Senior Ecologist

An opportunity has arisen for an experienced ecologist to join a growing and dynamic team based in the East of England. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in delivering high-quality ecological services on major development projects, supporting work from initial field surveys through to planning, mitigation, and implementation.

This organisation places strong emphasis on work-life balance and supports flexible working arrangements, including Time Off In Lieu (TOIL) for fieldwork commitments.

Benefits:

• 24-25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Option to purchase up to 5 additional days of leave
• Company pension scheme
• Share Incentive Scheme
• Life assurance
• Group income protection
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
• Health screening and dental care options
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Access to retail discounts via BenefitHub
• Car allowance (role dependent)
  
  

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and lead a range of protected species surveys for large-scale infrastructure and development projects across the East of England
• Produce high-quality technical reports, including Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs), Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIAs), Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), Habitats Regulations Assessments (HRAs), Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) reports, Landscape and Ecological Management Plans (LEMPs), and Construction Environmental Management Plans (CEMPs)
• Undertake Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments, including habitat surveys, condition assessments, metric calculations, and reporting for planning submissions
• Develop and deliver mitigation strategies, including securing protected species licences (e.g. bats, great crested newts, dormice, badgers, and water voles)
• Contribute to tender preparation and fee proposals
• Mentor and support junior team members, fostering professional growth and practical development
  
  

Candidate Requirements:

• Strong proficiency in UK Habitat Classification and habitat condition assessment
• Demonstrable experience in designing and delivering ecological surveys, with the ability to interpret findings for planning and mitigation
• Experience in protected species licensing and Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) duties
• A collaborative approach, with the ability to work independently when required
• Excellent communication, organisational, and time management skills
• Full UK driving licence
  
  

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply or contact Ashleigh Garner at Penguin Recruitment for a confidential discussion.