Ecologist / Senior Ecologist

At TrueNorth Ecology we do things a little differently, we know that great ecologists can be burnt out from working well beyond their hours and we believe in giving talented people the space, trust and flexibility to do their best work. We’re looking for an Ecologist/Senior Ecologist who wants a role that fits around real life.

We are a small north east firm with an established reputation. We work from home so that we can offer flexible working around our team’s needs. This role may suit those looking to step back from frequent evening surveys during survey season as we value working within our local region only and reducing the need for working over hours. While the job will require travel around the north-east it is unlikely to require overnight stays.

What makes us different

• Genuinely flexible working – We don’t mind when or where you work, as long as the work gets done. Need to do school pick‑ups, avoid rush hour, or shift your hours around fieldwork? Fine by us.
• A role shaped around you – Whether you’re developing botanical skills, building your BNG expertise, or stepping into project leadership, we’ll tailor responsibilities to your strengths and ambitions.
• A team that actually cares – We’re small enough to know each other well and big enough to take on meaningful projects. You won’t be a cog in a machine; you’ll be part of shaping how we grow.

What we’re looking for

• Experience in ecological consultancy and a solid grounding in UK habitats and species.
• A thoughtful, detail‑driven approach to reporting and assessment.
• Someone who values flexibility, independence, and a healthy work–life balance.
• A team player who enjoys contributing to a positive, open, and supportive culture.

What we offer

• Flexible working as standard — not a perk, but a principle.
• Competitive salary aligned with your experience and the value you bring.
• Support for training, accreditation, and career development.
• A role where your wellbeing, autonomy, and professional growth genuinely matter.

Depending on your experience, you will join at Consultant or Senior Ecologist level. Both roles focus on delivering high‑quality ecological fieldwork, assessments, and project support. The senior role builds on this foundation with greater responsibility for project management, client engagement, technical leadership, and quality assurance. Our work primarily supports development projects across housing, commercial, and energy sectors. We’re looking for candidates who can demonstrate strengths in most of the following areas:

• UK habitat classification surveys;
• Condition assessment
• Project Management
• Botanical Surveys;
• Bat Surveys;
• Reptile Surveys;
• Great Crested Newt Surveys;
• GIS mapping;
• Analysing data and writing reports;
• Ecological clerk of works;

Person specification:

Essential

• Have a minimum of 3 years’ relevant consultancy experience
• Have excellent fieldwork skills
• Experience of surveying for a suite of protected species
• Ability to organise and analyse data and write a range of ecological reports
• An ability to lead and manage projects
• Knowledge of relevant legislation
• Excellent communication skills with clients
• Be a member or eligible for membership of the Chartered Institute of Ecology & Environmental Management
• Hold a valid driving licence
• Access to your own car

Desirable

• Survey licence for bats
• Experience quality-checking ecological reports
• Have an appropriate degree

We don’t have a website as we have a strong ever growing client base which offers repeat business and want to focus our time on doing the work rather than maintaining a website!