Associate Ecologist

An exciting opportunity for a skilled ecologist to take a leading role on major infrastructure and energy projects. This role blends technical expertise, project delivery, and client-facing work, offering the chance to influence development across some of the UK's most sensitive and protected environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Advise clients and project teams on ecological constraints, mitigation strategies, and regulatory pathways
• Lead protected species surveys and coordinate ecological inputs across large-scale utility and development schemes
• Prepare and review documents such as HRAs, EcIAs, consents, and licence applications
• Engage with stakeholders including regulatory bodies, planning authorities, and environmental specialists
• Contribute to design proposals and site assessments with practical ecological guidance
• Oversee internal and external consultants, and occasionally undertake site surveys
• Provide leadership on biodiversity enhancement and nature conservation across a range of sensitive landscapes

What You'll Bring

• Degree in ecology or related subject and full CIEEM membership (Chartered or working towards)
• Strong understanding of UK planning, protected species legislation, and ecological designations (e.g. SSSI, SPA, SAC)
• Experience delivering projects in consultancy, conservation or public sector settings
• Familiarity with HRA preparation and protected species licensing
• Excellent knowledge of British flora and habitat classification (botanical skills advantageous)
• Organised, commercially aware, and confident managing project inputs and team coordination
• Full UK driving licence

Salary & Benefits

• £60,000 - £75,000 negotiable based on experience
• 25 days holiday + 1 birthday day off
• Private health membership and wellness support
• Flexible working options to support work-life balance
• Enhanced family leave: maternity, paternity, and carers' support
• Pension & life insurance (4x salary)
• Electric vehicle scheme & cycle to work programme
• Sabbatical option after 3 years
• Professional development support (including paid study leave)
• Retail discounts, social events, and national team meetups

Why Apply?

• Contribute to nationally significant projects that support net-zero goals
• Lead meaningful ecological work with a focus on innovation and delivery
• Enjoy a supportive culture that values growth, flexibility, and sustainability

When applying to any role through Cobalt, your CV will never be shared with a client without your prior consent. Apply in confidence below or get in touch with me for a confidential discussion about the position via sgreeff@cobaltrecruitment.com or 07458161399.