Principal Ecologist

Location: Kent (Hybrid / Flexible Working)
Salary: 40,000+ DOE
Contract: Permanent, Full-Time

Our client is a well-established and respected environmental consultancy delivering ecological and environmental services to a diverse client base across the UK. As part of continued growth, they are seeking an experienced Principal Ecologist to lead projects, support strategic development, and play a key role in mentoring and managing ecological teams in their Kent office.

This is an excellent opportunity for a senior ecologist looking to step into a leadership role with genuine influence over project delivery, client relationships, and the future direction of the ecology team.

As Principal Ecologist, you will:

• Lead and manage complex ecological projects from tender through to delivery

• Provide technical leadership and quality assurance across ecological reports and assessments

• Act as a key point of contact for clients, planners, and stakeholders

• Oversee and support the development of senior and junior ecologists

• Contribute to business development, proposals, and strategic growth

• Ensure compliance with UK wildlife legislation, planning policy, and best practice

• Support workload planning, resourcing, and team management

You will likely have:

• A degree (or higher) in Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related discipline

• Extensive experience in ecological consultancy at Senior or Principal level

• Strong knowledge of UK wildlife legislation and planning processes

• Proven experience leading EcIAs, PEAs, and complex ecological assessments

• Chartered membership (or working towards) of CIEEM

• One or more protected species licences (highly desirable)

• Strong leadership, mentoring, and client management skills

• A full UK driving licence

• Salary of 40,000+ DOE

• Kent-based role with hybrid and flexible working options

• Senior leadership position with influence over projects and team direction

• Varied and high-profile projects across multiple sectors

• Support for continued professional development and career progression

If you are a motivated ecologist looking to make a real impact and lead ecological projects, we would love to hear from you.

Contact James Hardie at Penguin Recruitment.