Ecologist / Senior Ecologist

Join a small, supportive consultancy that puts people first. Interesting projects, genuine flexibility, and every Friday off — without sacrificing salary.

Ecologist / Senior Ecologist – Midlands (Remote, 4-Day Week) – £30,000–£45,000

We’re Croft Ecology — a small but growing consultancy based in South Leicestershire, working across the Midlands. We support a wide mix of projects, mostly small to medium-sized developments, and get involved in everything from PEAs and BNG assessments through to protected species surveys, mitigation licences, EcIAs and habitat management plans.

We’ve built the business around people, not the other way round. That means flexibility, trust, and a genuine work-life balance. Everyone here works a 4-day week (Mon–Thu, 32 hours) — for a full salary. Fridays are yours, every week.

We’re now looking for an Ecologist and/or Senior Ecologist who wants to take on more responsibility, work directly with clients, and help us deliver a friendly, professional service without the big-consultancy burnout.

What the role involves

• Leading surveys — UKHab/Phase 1, protected species, and BNG assessments.
• Writing clear, practical reports — PEAs, BNG, EcIAs, PRAs, licence applications, and habitat management plans.
• Using QGIS and Coreo for mapping and BNG calculations.
• Advising clients on ecological constraints and opportunities.
• Getting stuck into biodiversity enhancements and habitat restoration ideas.
• Working closely with clients, regulators, and stakeholders.
• Supporting the wider team, sharing your knowledge, and helping us grow.

What we’re looking for

• A degree in ecology (or equivalent experience).
• CIEEM eligibility.
• Solid ecological experience, ideally including leading surveys and projects.
• Confident habitat ID skills, with good botany knowledge.
• Experience with BNG assessments and habitat management/monitoring plans.
• At least a Level 1 bat licence (other protected species licences are a bonus).
• A good grasp of UK legislation and planning policy.
• Someone who’s confident dealing with clients, and enjoys collaborative working.
• A driving licence and car.

What you’ll get

• £30,000–£45,000 salary
• A genuine 4-day working week (32 hrs, Mon–Thu)
• Remote/home-based working, with regular in-person meet-ups
• 20 days’ annual leave (5 weeks, rising with service) plus bank holidays
• Your birthday off (because cake > Teams meetings)
• Training and CPD opportunities
• Flexible TOIL to balance out those busy summer survey weeks
• Contributory pension

If this sounds like your kind of place, we’d love to hear from you.