Senior Ecologist

About the role

The Senior Ecologist will be the main point of contact for clients on active projects, delivering high‑quality ecological reports and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments. You will work closely with the Technical Director and a data specialist to ensure timely, technically robust delivery.

Key responsibilities

• Manage client communications on active projects, responding confidently and promptly.
• Attend client meetings and provide clear technical advice.
• Prepare ecology reports for planning applications written for non‑specialist readers.
• Lead BNG assessments and run Biodiversity Metric 4.0 calculations.
• Conduct UKHab surveys and produce habitat mapping.
• Carry out occasional protected‑species surveys.

Required profile

• Degree (or equivalent) in ecology, environmental science, biology or a related discipline.
• Significant ecology consultancy experience, including project and client management.
• Demonstrable client‑facing delivery experience.
• Strong written communication for non‑specialist audiences.
• Strong verbal communication and confidence in client meetings.
• Practical experience with BNG assessments using Biodiversity Metric 4.0.
• UKHab survey experience.
• GIS experience (QGIS preferred) for habitat mapping.
• Full, clean UK driving licence.
• CIEEM membership (or working towards it).

Required skills

• Biodiversity Metric 4.0 assessments.
• UKHab survey techniques.
• GIS – QGIS.
• Digital field data collection platforms (e.g., Coreo, ESRI Field Maps).
• Protected‑species survey licences (bat, dormouse, breeding bird, reptile).
• EcIA methodology.

What we offer

• Hybrid working from our Chilcompton office.
• 33 days’ holiday per year (inclusive of bank holidays).
• Life assurance covering 4× annual salary.
• Comprehensive income protection insurance.
• Opportunities for professional development and shaping consultancy practice.