Principal Ecologist

  • MorePeople
  • Leicester, Leicestershire
  • Mar 11, 2026
Full time Industrial

Job Description

Principal Ecologist

BNG & PEA

60k (DOE)

Leicester

Looking for a role within a growing business with an established Ecology portfolio?

Focussing on BNG, PEA and EcIA you'll direct, expand and deliver ecology services leading projects from start to finish. Providing tailored solutions to Developers, Commercial business and Residential clients. This is an exciting and unique opportunity to join, lead and grow the ecology department within a business that is looking to triple headcount.

What's in it for you?

  • Salary up to 60k (DOE)
  • Car allowance (DOE)
  • Flexible Hybrid working - No Time sheets!
  • Generous annual leave - 26 days + Bank Holidays
  • Your Birthday off!
  • Enhanced paid Paternity & Maternity leave
  • Regular pay reviews (annually)
  • CPD budget and opportunities to upskill
  • Industry body memberships

The Role

You'll be responsible for directing and expanding the delivery of strategic ecology services across projects across Leicestershire, Midlands and the UK.

Your work will include:

  • Providing strategic ecological advice to clients
  • Take the lead on ecological surveys including BNG, PEA, protected species and EcIAs
  • Start to finish project management, quotation, budget control, invoicing & scheduling.
  • Develop and implement strategies to minimise ecological impacts and deliver BNG
  • Ecological due diligence and advising on BNG opportunities
  • Prepare technical documents, BNG calculations and ecological reports
  • Mentor and support the ecology and wider team

This role is about delivering small and medium sized projects and providing commercially astute, honest and clear ecological advice that shapes long-term relationships and leads growth within the business.

About You

  • Significant experience delivering strategic ecology within consultancy, rural practice or development
  • Strong understanding of BNG, PEA & EcIAs
  • CIEEM / CEnv / Ecology Degree
  • FISC Level 3 or above
  • Proven ability to provide guidance and advice on ecological matters
  • Extensive knowledge of UK habitat & protective species legislation
  • UK Drivers Licence
  • Experience preparing ecological reports and technical documents
  • Confident engaging with regulators, stakeholders and multidisciplinary teams

What's Next?

For an informal discussion, call me, Simon on (phone number removed) and we can talk through the role, team and opportunity in more detail.

Don't worry if your CV isn't fully up to date, just send what you have, and we'll take it from there.

What happens after I apply?

You'll be contacted by one of our sector specialists who'll talk through your background, interests, and goals.

We'll make sure the role is right for you and support you through each stage of the process.

Will someone guide me through the interview process?

Yes. Your consultant will brief you fully before interviews, provide insight into the company culture, and help you prepare so you can feel confident and well-informed.