Senior / Principal Ecologist

We are looking to employ an experienced Principal Ecologist, or a Senior Ecologist looking to take the next step in their career. You will join our small team based in Bath, and working across the UK (mainly in the south). We are seeking a ‘generalist’ with a wide range of ecological skills, who will be responsible for both leading and assisting in ecological survey and report writing. This is a permanent role, ideally full-time although part-time applications will be considered.

About Ethos

Ethos is part of the Celnor Group, a community of specialist environmental, testing, inspection, and risk-management businesses committed to protecting people, places, and the planet. Being part of Celnor gives you access to shared tools, development pathways, and group-wide opportunities, while retaining the expert identity and supportive culture that makes Ethos a trusted ecological consultancy.

Based in the world heritage city of Bath, Ethos works across the UK on planning and environmental projects with a strong focus on ecology, biodiversity net gain (BNG), and green infrastructure. We take pride in delivering robust ecological advice that leads to good planning outcomes and positive environmental impact. The focus of this job is ecology.

The Role

You will lead and oversee a wide range of ecological work, including field surveys, impact assessments, project delivery, and team development.

Our current workload is mainly based in the south of England, and you will be expected to both lead and assist in ecological survey and report writing. The job will require travel across the UK, so a driving licence and access to a car will be essential, and there will be a need for occasional overnight stays and possibly longer periods (2-3 days) away from home.

Key Responsibilities

Surveys & Fieldwork

• Lead UKHab surveys, hedgerow and condition assessments
• Undertake and manage protected species surveys (e.g. bats, GCN, reptiles, birds, dormice)
• Act as Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW), including site supervision and toolbox talks

Ecological Assessment

• Lead and approve EcIAs, ES chapters, licence applications, and mitigation strategies
• Deliver Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments using DEFRA Metric and similar tools
• Analyse ecological data and assess development impacts
• Design mitigation and monitoring strategies
• Undertake GIS habitat mapping and provide expert input at appeals

Project Management

• Manage multiple and complex projects from inception to completion
• Lead client and stakeholder communication
• Oversee project budgets, quotes, and timelines
• Coordinate survey programmes, resources, and reporting deadlines

Business & Team Leadership

• Support business growth and client development
• Improve systems, processes, and operational efficiency
• Lead recruitment, training, mentoring, and staff appraisals
• Support HR, H&S, and staff wellbeing alongside the Managing Director

Person specification:

Essential

• Have a minimum of 6 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

What do we offer

• Salary £41,000 – £51,500 (dependent on experience)
• 25 days leave (pro rata)
• Ethos offers a discretionary 9-day fortnight where staff receive every other Friday off
• Staff support/mentoring
• Flexible working hours are available, including working at home, to be agreed with the Managing Director;
• TOIL / paid overtime
• We will provide a minimum of 4 days formal training per year (minimum 2 days external);
• Work related expenses paid, including mileage at 0.45p;
• Statutory Sick Pay and Maternity leave will apply in line with the most recent government guidance;
• A contributory pension scheme is available to employees where up to 4% of salary can be paid in by employees which is matched as a salary addition by the employer.