Ecologist

A growing ecological consultancy is expanding its team and seeking a capable and delivery-focused Consultant Ecologist to support a range of projects across the South West. The organisation is professional and values-led, with a strong emphasis on delivering high-quality ecological work and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) services. This is an opportunity to join at an early stage and play a meaningful role in shaping how the business develops and operates.

The successful candidate will take ownership of their own projects while working as part of a small, collaborative team. The position offers a balance of autonomy and support, with clear line management, mentoring, and technical guidance available when needed.

What's on Offer:

• Salary of 28,000- 34,000 depending on experience
• 35-hour working week
• 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays, with an additional paid Christmas shutdown
• Flexible working arrangements with clear boundaries around out-of-hours commitments
• A high level of autonomy and trust, balanced with strong managerial support
• The opportunity to influence and help shape a growing consultancy

Key Responsibilities:

• Deliver Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs), Preliminary Roost Assessments (PRAs), and baseline BNG assessments, including habitat and condition assessments
• Undertake protected species surveys where competent, including bat surveys
• Analyse bat survey data and contribute to reporting
• Produce clear, well-structured ecological reports suitable for planning
• Manage projects from survey design through to delivery and completion
• Provide pragmatic, solution-focused ecological advice to clients
  
  

Essential Experience:

• Demonstrable experience delivering ecological consultancy projects independently
• Proven competence in PEAs, PRAs, and ecological reporting
• Confidence in BNG assessments, including habitat condition evaluation and QGIS mapping
• Strong report writing and communication skills
• Full UK driving licence
  
  

Highly Desirable:

• Bat Level 1 survey licence
• Strong botanical knowledge and field skills
• Experience analysing bat data and supporting protected species work
• Previous project management experience within consultancy
  
  

This role is suited to an already competent ecologist and is not appropriate for graduates or entry-level applicants. Candidates should be confident in core consultancy tasks, including survey delivery, reporting, and baseline assessments. While independence is expected, structured support, mentoring, and line management are integral to the role-particularly for complex projects and ongoing professional development.

Location & Working Pattern:

• Primarily home-based
• Some office presence in Taunton, alongside regular site work across Somerset and the wider South West
• Flexible working hours within agreed limits
  
  

This position offers a chance to contribute to meaningful ecological work within a supportive, forward-thinking environment, while developing professionally as part of a close-knit team. Interested in hearing more information? Please contact Ashleigh Garner from Penguin Recruitment.