Senior Ecologist.

Are you an experienced ecologist looking for the next step in your career? Do you want to lead meaningful projects, influence environmental outcomes, and help develop the next generation of ecological professionals?

At EcoSylva Consultancy, environmental excellence is at the heart of everything we do. We are seeking a motivated and knowledgeable Senior Ecologist to join our growing team and provide technical leadership across a diverse portfolio of ecological projects.

This is an exciting opportunity to work on a variety of habitats and species-based projects while playing a key role in business development, mentoring junior colleagues, and driving innovative ecological solutions. From protected species licensing and mitigation to Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) delivery and environmental management systems, you’ll help shape both projects and the future direction of the consultancy.

As a Senior Ecologist, you will:

• Lead and deliver a range of ecological surveys and assessments, including Phase 1 and Phase 2 Habitat Surveys, Protected Species Surveys, Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIAs), Habitats Regulations Assessments (HRAs), and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments.
• Prepare high-quality technical reports, including Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs), mitigation strategies, licence applications, RAMS, and fee proposals.
• Provide expert ecological advice to clients across a broad range of sectors and projects.
• Liaise with Natural England, local authorities, landowners, developers, and other key stakeholders.
• Mentor and support junior ecologists, promoting technical excellence and professional development.
• Lead client meetings, contribute to tender submissions, and support the continued growth of the business.
• Assist in developing innovative approaches to ecological consultancy, biodiversity enhancement, and environmental management.

• Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of six years’ professional ecological consultancy experience.
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel, including occasional overnight stays.
• Membership of CIEEM, IEMA, ISEP, or an equivalent professional body.
• Holder of at least one protected species licence.
• Strong knowledge of BNG, Environmental Management Systems (EMS), and relevant ecological legislation.
• Excellent report writing, communication, and project management skills.

Desirable:

• Experience of BREEAM ecology assessments.
• Proven experience of managing ecological projects and client relationships.
• A passion for mentoring and developing junior team members.

• Company vehicle.
• Professional membership subscriptions paid.
• Enhanced annual leave entitlement.
• Paid volunteering days.
• Overtime and Time Off In Lieu (TOIL) options.
• A supportive, inclusive, and values-driven culture.
• Clear opportunities for career progression and leadership development.

If you’re passionate about ecology, thrive in a collaborative environment, and want to make a tangible difference to biodiversity and the natural environment, we’d love to hear from you.

Join EcoSylva Consultancy and help shape a more sustainable future.