Principal Ecologist

Principal Ecologist – Exeter Embankment Group is proud to support an established and highly respected environmental consultancy in their search for a Principal Ecologist to join their dynamic team in Exeter. This is a senior-level opportunity for an experienced ecologist who is passionate about leading impactful projects, mentoring others, and contributing to the growth of a thriving ecology team.

The consultancy has a proven track record of delivering exceptional results across ecology, land, nature, and broader environmental services. They work with a diverse range of clients across multiple sectors, combining technical expertise with a collaborative and practical approach to create better outcomes for people, development, and the natural environment.

Overview

As a Principal Ecologist, you will play a pivotal role in leading ecological projects from inception to completion. You will provide expert advice, oversee technical assessments, and ensure the delivery of high-quality outputs. This role offers a unique blend of technical leadership, project management, and team development, making it an ideal opportunity for an experienced ecologist looking to make a significant impact.

Responsibilities

• Lead ecological projects from planning and survey design through to reporting and delivery.
• Manage project programmes, budgets, resources, and client expectations.
• Provide expert technical advice on habitat, protected species, and ecological constraints.
• Prepare and review technical reports, assessments, and client deliverables.
• Support Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, Ecological Impact Assessments, and protected species assessments.
• Advise on mitigation, enhancement, and biodiversity-related project requirements.
• Conduct quality assurance on reports and technical outputs.
• Collaborate with clients, design teams, local authorities, and statutory consultees.
• Mentor and guide early-career ecologists, fostering their professional development.
• Contribute to bids, proposals, and the growth of the ecology workload.
• Work across multidisciplinary projects with colleagues from other environmental teams.

Qualifications

To excel in this role, you will need:

• Extensive experience within UK ecological consultancy.
• A degree in ecology, biological sciences, or a related field.
• In-depth knowledge of UK habitats, protected species, and ecological assessment.
• Strong understanding of relevant legislation, planning policy, and best practice guidance.
• Proven experience in leading ecological surveys, assessments, and project delivery.
• Exceptional report writing, technical review, and quality assurance skills.
• Confidence in managing clients and contributing to project discussions.
• Experience managing programmes, budgets, and competing deadlines.
• The ability to mentor, support, or line manage other ecologists.
• Excellent communication skills and a practical, solutions-focused approach.
• Survey or mitigation licences (desirable but not essential).
• A proactive attitude and strong attention to detail.

Day-to-Day

• Oversee and manage ecological projects, ensuring timely and high-quality delivery.
• Conduct and review ecological surveys and assessments.
• Provide strategic advice to clients and stakeholders on ecological matters.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver integrated environmental solutions.
• Mentor and support junior and mid-level ecologists, fostering a culture of learning and development.
• Engage with clients, local authorities, and statutory bodies to ensure project alignment with ecological and regulatory requirements.
• Contribute to business development through proposals, bids, and client relationship management.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to work on diverse and meaningful ecological projects.
• A supportive and collaborative working environment.
• Professional development opportunities, including mentoring and training.
• The chance to make a tangible impact on the natural environment and local communities.
• Flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance.

If you are an experienced ecologist looking to take the next step in your career, this is an excellent opportunity to join a forward-thinking consultancy that values expertise, collaboration, and innovation.

Apply now to become a key part of a growing team dedicated to creating better outcomes for people, development, and the natural environment.