Principal Ecologist

Principal Ecologist – South-East England (Location Flexible)

Help establish and lead our new regional office

We’re offering an exciting opportunity for an experienced Principal Ecologist to establish and lead a new South-East office, supported by the stability and resources of an established consultancy. This senior role offers genuine influence, flexible working options, a discretionary 9-day fortnight, and the chance to grow a team while delivering meaningful ecological outcomes.

About Us

Ethos Environmental Planning Ltd is part of the Celnor Group — a network of environmental, testing, inspection, and risk-management businesses committed to protecting people, places, and the planet. Being part of the group provides access to shared tools, learning pathways, and development opportunities, while retaining the specialist identity and supportive culture that make Ethos a trusted ecological consultancy.

Based in the world heritage city of Bath, Ethos works across the UK delivering multi-disciplinary planning advice with a focus on ecology, green infrastructure, and biodiversity net gain. We pride ourselves on high-quality ecological input that supports good decision-making and positive environmental outcomes.

About the Opportunity

Client demand across the East and South-East of England has grown significantly, and we are now ready to establish a new regional office. We’re seeking a Principal Ecologist to lead, shape, and grow this new presence.

We do not have a fixed location in mind; we are driven by finding the right person. This is a rare opportunity to build a team from the ground up, supported by established systems, colleagues, and group-wide resources. You’ll have autonomy in developing the office while remaining part of a connected, collaborative consultancy with a strong national track record.

As Principal Ecologist, you’ll help set technical standards, guide project delivery, support staff development, and play an active role in the Ethos Management Team.

Key Responsibilities:

Surveys & Fieldwork

• Conduct UK Habitat surveys, hedgerow and condition assessments
• Lead protected species surveys (bats, GCN, reptiles, dormouse, birds)
• Deliver ecological supervision and ECoW duties

Ecological Assessment

• Lead and approve EcIAs, ES chapters, mitigation strategies, licence applications, and management plans
• Lead BNG assessments using the DEFRA Metric and related tools
• Ensure high technical standards across assessments
• Analyse data, evaluate impacts, and develop proportionate mitigation
• Design monitoring schemes and produce GIS mapping
• Prepare and present ecological evidence at appeals

Project Management

• Manage a portfolio of ecological projects, including complex programs
• Communicate with clients, stakeholders, and consultees
• Attend meetings and provide expert ecological advice
• Prepare and review budgets, quotes, invoices, and proposals
• Oversee survey planning, resourcing, and workflow
• Maintain operational systems and quality standards

Business Management & Leadership

• Identify new business opportunities and support growth
• Implement efficient systems and service improvements
• Support recruitment and staff development as the office grows
• Mentor colleagues, deliver training, and lead appraisals
• Support the Managing Director with HR, H&S, and staff wellbeing

Person Specification

• Minimum 6 years’ experience in ecological consultancy
• Relevant degree or equivalent experience
• Full CIEEM membership or equivalent
• Strong field ID skills
• Experience managing complex surveys
• At least one protected species licence
• Ability to write and QA complex ecological reports
• Strong understanding of legislation and policy
• Excellent communication and leadership skills
• Initiative, enthusiasm, and commitment to CPD
• Ability to manage workload independently
• Full UK driving licence

Benefits

• Senior role shaping a new regional office
• Part of trusted and growing environmental group
• Flexible and hybrid working
• Discretionary 9-day fortnight
• 25 days annual leave (pro rata)
• TOIL and paid overtime
• Minimum 4 days formal training per year
• Expenses covered, including £0.45/mile
• Statutory sickness and parental leave
• Contributory pension (up to 4% employer matched)