Senior Ecologist

About the role

We are a growing environmental consultancy seeking an experienced Senior Ecologist to join our Head Office team in Southampton. You will lead ecological surveys, deliver Biodiversity Net Gain strategies and provide senior‑level expertise for Environmental Impact Assessments across a diverse portfolio of development projects.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and oversee ecological surveys, site assessments and monitoring programmes.
• Develop and integrate Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) strategies into project planning.
• Provide senior ecological input for EIAs, habitat creation and management plans.
• Operate under Natural England protected species licences and ensure compliance.
• Manage project delivery from scoping through implementation and long‑term monitoring.
• Prepare technical reports, ecological impact assessments and project documentation.
• Mentor junior ecologists and support professional development within the team.
• Collaborate with clients, project managers and stakeholders to deliver sustainable solutions.
• Travel regularly to project sites across the region and the wider UK.

Required profile

• Senior‑level experience in ecological surveying and environmental consultancy.
• Proven ability to lead projects and deliver high‑quality technical outputs.
• Willingness to travel extensively for site work.
• Commitment to continuous professional development and industry standards.

Required skills

• Ecological surveying
• Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) strategy development
• Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) preparation
• Habitat creation and management planning
• Natural England protected species licence application