About the role
Less Corporate. More Flexibility. More Time for Life Outside Work.
Are you an experienced Senior or Principal Ecologist looking for a consultancy where you can enjoy your work, have greater autonomy and be part of a genuinely friendly team?
Ocean to Earth Recruitment is working with a growing environmental consultancy in the South East offering a refreshingly different approach to working life.
With a four-day working week currently being trialled on full pay (Monday to Thursday), flexible hybrid working and a relaxed, supportive atmosphere, this is an opportunity to progress your career without the pressures of a heavily corporate environment.
The Opportunity
As Principal Ecologist, you will lead a variety of ecological projects, provide technical expertise and support the development of a growing team.
Your responsibilities will include:
Leading ecological surveys, assessments and project delivery.
Preparing and reviewing Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIAs), Habitat Regulations Assessments (HRAs) and Environmental Statement chapters.
Providing specialist advice on protected species, mitigation and ecological legislation.
Managing client relationships, budgets and project programmes.
Mentoring and supporting junior ecologists.
Contributing to fee proposals, tenders and business development.
Helping shape technical standards and the continued development of the ecology team.
About You
We would welcome applications from established Principal Ecologists or experienced Senior Ecologists ready to progress.
Ideally, you will have:
Around 10 years or more of UK ecological consultancy experience.
A relevant degree and full CIEEM membership (MCIEEM).
Strong knowledge of UK ecology, planning policy and wildlife legislation.
Experience preparing EcIAs, HRAs and Environmental Statement chapters.
Experience acting as a Named Ecologist on protected species mitigation licences.
Project management, technical reporting and mentoring experience.
GIS and Biodiversity Net Gain knowledge.
A full UK driving licence.
Protected species licences, particularly bats, and botanical expertise would be advantageous.
What's on Offer?
Four-day working week: Monday to Thursday on full pay, currently operating as a company-wide trial.
Salary from £40,000+: Dependent on experience and technical expertise.
Hybrid working: Typically two office days per week.
Private healthcare: Including mental health, dental, optical and physiotherapy support.
Professional development: Paid CIEEM membership, £750 annual training budget and additional specialist training support.
Loyalty bonuses: Up to £6,000.
Additional benefits: Enhanced annual leave, sick pay and company vehicle or mileage reimbursement.
Supportive culture: A friendly, collaborative team with less corporate structure and greater autonomy.
Why Consider This Role?
If you enjoy ecology but would welcome fewer corporate processes, more flexibility and a working environment where your expertise is genuinely valued, this opportunity could be an excellent fit.
Our client places considerable importance on employee wellbeing, professional development and investing in technology that makes ecological work more efficient.
Whether you are ready to step up from Senior Ecologist or looking for a more rewarding Principal-level position, we would love to hear from you.
Apply in Confidence
At Ocean to Earth Recruitment, we specialise in helping environmental professionals find opportunities that align with their skills, career ambitions and values.