Principal Ecologist

26 Days Old

Bennett and Game are representing a leading Manchester-based environmental consultancy currently seeking a Senior Ecologist to join their expanding team. With a current headcount of 25 and a turnover on track to grow from £2 million to £3 million in the next 12 months, the business is in a strong phase of strategic growth underpinned by a varied, design-led project pipeline. This is an opportunity to work with purpose, delivering practical, sustainable solutions that help clients balance development with meaningful ecological value.
Our client operates across ecology, arboriculture, and green infrastructure, supporting projects nationwide in the residential, commercial, education, and infrastructure sectors. The role will see you take a lead on project delivery, mentor junior team members, and help shape the future of the ecology discipline during this exciting growth phase. The business fosters a collaborative, low-hierarchy culture, with genuine opportunities for tailored career progression and innovation at every level.

Principal Ecologist Salary & Benefits

Salary range: £45,000 - £50,000, dependent on experience and licensing
24 days holiday (plus bank holidays), rising to 30 with long service
Hybrid working - flexible arrangements dependent on project demands
5% employer pension contribution
Paid professional subscription (1 per year)
Access to company fleet vehicles for site travel
Cycle to Work Scheme and Techscheme
Eyecare scheme
Season ticket cash advance available
1 volunteering day per year
Regular staff events and a collaborative, low-hierarchy team culture

Principal Ecologist Job Overview

Lead and manage multiple ecology projects from inception through to final delivery
Conduct site-based habitat and protected species surveys, with particular emphasis on bats, GCN, and Phase 1/UKHab
Take ownership of technical report writing, EcIA delivery, EPS licensing, and biodiversity net gain assessments
Mentor and support junior ecologists, offering guidance, technical checks, and development planning
Act as point of contact for clients, consultants, and planning authorities
Oversee health and safety compliance, fieldwork logistics, and seasonal team resourcing
Play a key role in team development and supporting the wider ecology business plan

Principal Ecologist Job Requirements

Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or any related subject
Minimum 3-5 years' consultancy experience
Full Member of CIEEM (essential)
Deep understanding of UK/EC wildlife legislation and planning policy
Demonstrable project management skills, including commercial oversight and delivery against deadlines
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Experience preparing EPSL documents, BNG assessments, and EcIAs
Licences for bats and/or great crested newts (desirable)
HRA, GIS capability, or FISC Level 3+ qualifications are advantageous
Full UK driving licence
If you're looking to take the next step in your ecology career with a purpose-driven consultancy that values both people and the planet, we'd love to hear from you.
Bennett and Game Recruitment are a multi-disciplined technical recruitment agency based in Chichester, West Sussex operating across the UK with specialist teams covering a range of industries.

We are acting as a Recruitment Agency in relation to this vacancy, and in accordance with GDPR by applying you are granting us consent to process your data, contact you about the services we offer, and submit your CV for the role you have applied for.

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Location:
Salford
Salary:
£50,000
Job Type:
PartTime
Category:
Construction

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