Senior Ecologist

Whether you're looking to take the next step in your ecology career or you're already operating at Senior level, you'll join a collaborative team working on a varied portfolio of projects with excellent opportunities for technical development, project responsibility and long-term career progression.

This role offers a blend of fieldwork, technical reporting, project management and client interaction, with flexibility to work remotely, on-site and alongside experienced ecological specialists.

The Role

• Undertaking protected species and habitat surveys.
• Delivering UKHab surveys and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments, including metric calculations.
• Acting as Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) and supporting environmental compliance on sit.e
• Managing ecological projects from survey through to delivery.
• Preparing and reviewing technical reports including PEAs, EcIAs, HRA screening, protected species licence applications and habitat assessments.
• Supporting project management, programme delivery and commercial performance.
• Producing habitat maps and spatial analysis using GIS software..
• Building strong relationships with clients, contractors and project stakeholders.
• Supporting tender submissions and project proposals.
• Mentoring junior ecologists and providing technical guidance (Senior level).

About You

• A degree in Ecology or a related environmental discipline.
• 4+ years' consultancy experience.
• Experience delivering protected species surveys, habitat surveys and ecological reporting.
• Good knowledge of UKHab, Biodiversity Net Gain and UK ecological legislation.
• Experience acting as an ECoW and delivering site-based work.
• Membership of CIEEM (or working towards).
• Ideally at least one protected species licence or working towards (bat, dormouse or similar desirable), with additional licences advantageous.
• Experience using GIS software such as QGIS.
• Excellent organisational, communication and project management skills.
• A full UK driving licence and willingness to travel, including occasional overnight stays.

Desirable Experience

• Ecological consultancy experience across infrastructure, highways, rail, utilities or property projects.
• Experience preparing EcIAs, HRAs and protected species licence applications.
• Strong understanding of planning processes and environmental legislation.
• Experience liaising with clients, contractors and multidisciplinary project teams.
• Knowledge of digital data collection tools and bat analysis software.

Salary & Benefits

• Competitive salary dependent on experience.
• Company vehicle or car allowance.
• Remote working arrangements.
• Ongoing training, mentoring and professional development.
• Support towards protected species licences and CIEEM progression.
• 25 days annual leave, plus birthday leave and bank holidays.
• Clear opportunities for career progression.

Why Apply?

This is an excellent opportunity to join a forward-thinking consultancy that genuinely invests in its people. You'll work on a diverse range of high-profile projects, gain exposure to all stages of project delivery and have the support to progress your career-whether you're looking to develop into a Senior Ecologist or further enhance your technical and leadership experience.

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.