39 jobs found

A respected multi-disciplinary consultancy based in Winchester is seeking a skilled Senior Ecologist to join its growing environmental team. This role offers the chance to deliver a wide variety of projects across the region, providing expert ecological input that supports high-quality planning and sustainable development. This position is ideal for a motivated professional seeking career progression within a friendly, supportive and forward-thinking consultancy. Benefits include: Competitive salary aligned with experience Hybrid and flexible working options Opportunities for continued professional development and support towards Chartership A collaborative, inclusive working environment Varied and engaging project portfolio Generous holiday allowance Employer pension contributions Support for training, CPD and specialist licences Opportunities to contribute to innovative, nature-positive outcomes The successful candidate will bring strong technical expertise, experience in leading ecological surveys and assessments, and confidence in managing projects from inception to completion. Knowledge of protected species, ecological appraisal, Biodiversity Net Gain, and habitat management is highly desirable. The role also includes opportunities to mentor junior ecologists and work closely with planners, landscape architects and other specialists. Applicants passionate about delivering high-quality ecological work and ready to take the next step in their career are encouraged to apply. If you'd like to hear more about the role, please contact Ashleigh Garner at Penguin Recruitment.

Senior Ecologist - Brighton We are looking for a Senior Ecologist to join a well established company in Brighton. The company work on a diverse range of projects from local conservation, to large-scale infrastructure developments across the South East. This role offers a supportive work environment, with opportunities for career development and progression. The company are dedicated to delivering innovative and practical solutions for environmental challenges. The company offer an excellent bonus scheme, paid professional membership fees as well as having an employee mentoring scheme and paid volunteering days. Key Responsibilities; Project Management: Lead and manage ecological assessments, habitat surveys, and impact studies for various projects. Field Work: Conduct and oversee field surveys, including protected species surveys, habitat assessments, and ecological monitoring. Writing Reports: Prepare detailed ecological reports, impact assessments, and mitigation strategies. Client Liaison: Build and maintain relationships with clients, providing expert advice and guidance on ecological issues. Team Leadership: Mentor and support junior ecologists, fostering a collaborative and innovative team environment. Compliance: Ensure projects comply with relevant legislation, planning policies, and environmental standards. What We're Looking For; Experience: Experience within an ecological consultancy or a related field. Qualifications: Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or related discipline. A master's degree or PhD is advantageous. Skills: Proficient in ecological survey techniques, data analysis, and report writing. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Ecology Knowledge: Strong understanding of UK wildlife legislation, planning regulations, and best practices in ecological management. Attitude: Proactive, detail-oriented, and committed to delivering high-quality work with a positive impact. If you are passionate about ecology and keen to make a real impact in a friendly, collaborative company, this is the perfect role for you. Interested in this Senior Ecologist vacancy? Apply today or contact Ashleigh Garner at Penguin Recruitment for more information.

Ecologist / Senior Ecologist with a Leading UK Consultancy based in Manchester! Whether you are an Ecologist ready for the next step in your career or an established Senior Ecologist seeking the perfect opening, this role offers an exciting prospect. We have a fantastic opportunity with a rapidly growing company that values personal and technical development while providing exposure to prestigious projects with major UK companies. Position: Senior Ecologist Location: Manchester Salary: £34,000 - £48,000 Benefits: Progression + Flexible Working + TOIL + Generous Holiday Package + more In this role, you will take charge of leading and coordinating the technical aspects of large-scale projects, ensuring a high level of safety, quality, and environmental responsibility. Project coordination, client and stakeholder collaboration, and showcasing the company's capabilities to potential clients in and around Manchester will also be integral to your responsibilities. Ecologist / Senior Ecologist - Ideal Candidate Profile: Degree in Ecology, Environmental Management, or a related field Based in or around Manchester (or happy to relocate) Proven experience in a UK consultancy Ability to manage projects and teams Report Writing Protected Species licences are desirable but not essential Join this multi-disciplinary Consultancy that offers not only competitive remuneration but also excellent opportunities for progression, flexible working arrangements, TOIL, and hybrid working, as well as other attractive benefits to be discussed at the interview. If you are eager to seize this opportunity or wish to explore other roles, click "Apply Now" or get in touch with Tim Joannides at Pebble Recruitment. Interested? Please APPLY NOW or call us on the phone number shown for a confidential chat.

Senior Ecologist Cardiff A well-established, multidisciplinary consultancy is seeking an experienced and enthusiastic Ecologist to join their growing team in Cardiff. This is a fantastic opportunity for a motivated individual looking to develop their career within a supportive and dynamic environment, delivering high-quality ecological services across a broad range of sectors. What's on Offer: Competitive salary based on experience. Flexible working arrangements, including hybrid options. Opportunities for career progression and training. A friendly, collaborative working culture. Involvement in diverse, interesting projects across the UK. Key Responsibilities: Undertake and manage a variety of ecological surveys, including Phase 1 habitat surveys and protected species assessments. Lead fieldwork and reporting for a range of projects, ensuring work is delivered on time and to the highest standard. Liaise with clients, regulators, and other stakeholders to provide clear, practical ecological advice. Prepare technical reports, including EcIA, HRA, and management plans. Mentor junior staff and contribute to team knowledge-sharing and CPD. The Ideal Candidate Will Have: A relevant degree in ecology or a related discipline. Proven consultancy experience, ideally in a similar role. Membership of CIEEM (or working towards it). Strong knowledge of UK wildlife legislation and planning policy. Protected species licences (e.g. bat, great crested newt) are desirable. A full UK driving licence and willingness to travel as required. This role is ideal for an ecologist looking to make a real impact, grow professionally, and work on a wide variety of projects in a company that values ecological expertise. Interested in this opportunity? Please apply to this advert or feel free to contact Ashleigh Garner at Penguin Recruitment!

Your new company My client is a growing, Midlands-based environmental consultancy providing pragmatic, solution-focused ecological and arboricultural services to a wide range of clients. They are particularly active in supporting residential and education sector developments, helping clients navigate environmental constraints and planning requirements efficiently. They are known for their hands-on, collaborative approach, offering clear communication, fast turnaround times, and commercially aware advice that keeps projects on track. As a small, close-knit team, they offer a supportive and flexible working environment where early-career staff are given meaningful responsibility and exposure to projects from the outset. Your new role As an Assistant Ecologist, you will support the delivery of ecological services across a varied project portfolio. Your role will be split between fieldwork and office-based reporting, contributing to projects from initial survey through to planning submission. You will: Assist with ecological surveys, including Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs), UKHab habitat surveys, and protected species surveys Collect, record, and manage ecological data accurately in the field Support licensed ecologists during specialist surveys, including dusk/dawn work where required Assist in preparing technical reports and ecological assessments to support planning applications Produce figures and mapping using GIS software Support Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) calculations and assessments Work closely with senior staff to help deliver projects efficiently and to a high standard Contribute to providing practical, solution-led advice that aligns ecological requirements with client objectives This is a varied role offering exposure to the full project lifecycle and the opportunity to quickly build experience within a consultancy setting. What you'll need to succeed A degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related field A sound understanding of UK habitats, species, and wildlife legislation Some experience of ecological surveys in a consultancy setting Strong written communication skills, with the ability to contribute to technical reports Good organisational skills and attention to detail A full UK driving licence and willingness to travel to sites It would also be beneficial if you have: Experience with UKHab classification Knowledge of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) Familiarity with GIS software (e.g. QGIS or ArcGIS) Membership with CIEEM Experience assisting with protected species surveys Just as important as technical skills, my client is looking for someone who is enthusiastic, reliable, and solutions-focused, with a genuine interest in developing a career in ecological consultancy. What you'll get in return A competitive salary, ranging from 28,000 to 35,000, varying with experience, and a performance-based bonus at the end of each year. Flexible hybrid working Regular pay reviews undertaken annually. Clear progression opportunities - support towards protected species licences, CIEEM membership, and progression into more senior roles as your experience develops Development and mentoring - working closely with experienced consultants who will support your technical growth and help you gain confidence in both fieldwork and reporting A supportive team culture - working within a small, friendly team that values collaboration, communication, and mutual support Varied and engaging workload - a healthy mix of site work and office-based tasks Membership in industry bodies paid. Enhanced Maternity / Paternity pay (currently under review) Holiday entitlement and pay - 26 days per year plus 8 bank holidays. Each employee is also given a free additional day of annual leave on their birthday. No Timesheets! Manage your own time, with time back where you exceed your contracted hours. An overtime system is available to help you track your time, should you choose. We are currently reviewing our benefits. If there is a perk that you feel would be good, let me know, and my client will review it! What you need to do now If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career. Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at (url removed)

An established and growing design practice based in Dorking is seeking an enthusiastic Senior or Principal Landscape Architect to join its expanding team. This opportunity is ideal for a talented professional looking to contribute to a diverse portfolio of projects spanning strategic and detailed landscape design, masterplanning, landscape and visual impact assessment, and public realm schemes across the UK. The successful candidate will become part of a progressive, multi-disciplinary environment, collaborating closely with architects, ecologists and arboriculturists. The team adopts an integrated approach to design and environmental delivery, consistently achieving high-quality outcomes across a broad range of sectors. Benefits; Flexible working arrangements Compressed working week option Pension contributions Health cash plan Cycle-to-work scheme Employee Owned Trust status Eligibility for a discretionary annual tax-free bonus Supportive environment with clear opportunities for career progression A comprehensive benefits brochure is available upon request. Key Requirements and Experience; A relevant postgraduate qualification with a minimum of five years' professional experience Chartered Member of the Landscape Institute (CMLI) Strong background in concept and detailed landscape design (masterplanning experience beneficial) Proven experience in LVIA and landscape planning Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite Advanced skills in 2D and 3D CAD software, with willingness to expand technical expertise (experience in Vectorworks, LSS, Lumion and GIS advantageous) Creative thinker with strong collaborative problem-solving abilities Excellent written, verbal and graphic communication skills Experience overseeing and supporting junior team members Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively Full UK driving licence and access to a car for site visits (or willingness to obtain) If you'd like to hear more about the role, please contact Ashleigh Garner from Penguin Recruitment for more information.

Senior Ecologist 45,000 - 55,000 Bedford We're recruiting on behalf of an expanding environmental consultancy that is seeking an experienced Senior Ecologist to join its established ecology team in Bedford. This is an excellent opportunity to work for a business recognised for delivering practical ecological and environmental consultancy services on a diverse range of development, infrastructure and land management projects. The successful candidate will play a key role in delivering high-quality work while supporting the growth of both the team and client relationships. Benefits: Attractive salary with annual salary reviews Hybrid and flexible working arrangements Generous holiday allowance Fully funded CPD and professional membership fees Private healthcare benefits Clear opportunities for career progression Positive and collaborative working culture Exposure to a varied portfolio of projects across multiple sectors The role: Deliver and oversee ecological surveys, habitat assessments and fieldwork Prepare technical reports, ecological appraisals and mitigation plans Coordinate project delivery, ensuring deadlines and budgets are achieved Provide ecological guidance to clients and project teams throughout the planning process Support the development and mentoring of junior ecology staff Contribute to business growth through excellent client service and technical expertise Requirements: Demonstrable experience in a senior ecological consultancy position Strong project management and technical reporting abilities Thorough understanding of UK ecological legislation and planning requirements Membership of CIEEM; protected species licences would be advantageous Full UK driving licence Full right to work in the UK Must live within a reasonable commuting distance of the Bedford office Happy to travel for site visits and occasional client meetings If you are interested in this or other positions in the Ecology industry, please do not hesitate to contact Jack porter on (url removed) . We have many more vacancies available on our website. Please refer to (url removed) . This is a permanent role. Penguin Recruitment is operating as a Recruitment Agency in respect to this position.

Senior Ecologist 40,000 - 50,000 Milton Keynes An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Senior Ecologist to join a well-established, multidisciplinary environmental consultancy with an excellent reputation for delivering ecology, landscape, arboriculture, heritage and planning services across the UK. Based near Milton Keynes, this growing consultancy offers the chance for a Senior Ecologist to work on a diverse portfolio of residential, commercial, renewable energy and development projects alongside experienced in-house specialists. The Senior Ecologist will play a key role in project delivery, mentoring colleagues and maintaining high technical standards. This Senior Ecologist position offers genuine career progression within a supportive and collaborative team. What's on offer: Competitive salary Flexible working arrangements TOIL system and extended annual leave Ongoing CPD and unlimited training opportunities Private healthcare and long service rewards Company vehicle access for fieldwork Friendly, supportive working environment Exciting projects across a range of sectors The role: Deliver ecological surveys, assessments and technical reports Manage projects from inception through to completion Produce EcIA, BNG and protected species documentation Liaise with clients, stakeholders and regulatory bodies Mentor junior ecologists and support business development Requirements: Previous experience as a Senior Ecologist or in a similar consultancy role Strong ecological report writing and project management skills Membership of CIEEM or working towards it Protected species licence desirable Full UK driving licence Full right to work in the UK Must live in or near the Milton Keynes office Willingness to undertake site visits and fieldwork If you are interested in this or other positions in the Ecology industry, please do not hesitate to contact Jack porter on (url removed) . We have many more vacancies available on our website. Please refer to (url removed) . This is a permanent role. Penguin Recruitment is operating as a Recruitment Agency in respect to this position.

Your new company My client is a growing, multidisciplinary environmental consultancy specialising in ecology, arboriculture, and landscape services, operating across the South East of England. They provide high-quality, timely, and pragmatic advice to a diverse client base including developers, planning consultants, architects, heritage organisations, and private landowners. With a flexible, home-based working model supported by strong digital systems, they have built a collaborative and supportive team culture. As they continue to expand, they are seeking a Head of Ecology to play a key leadership role in shaping and growing their ecology offering. Your new role As Head of Ecology, you will lead and develop the ecology team, overseeing project delivery while driving technical excellence and commercial performance. You will take responsibility for both strategic growth and day-to-day operational management of ecological services. Key responsibilities include: Leading, mentoring, and growing a team of ecologists Overseeing and delivering high-quality ecological surveys, assessments, and reporting Acting as a technical authority on Ecological Impact Assessments, protected species work, and Biodiversity Net Gain Managing key client relationships and contributing to business development Providing strategic input into the direction and growth of the ecology function Ensuring compliance with UK legislation, policy, and best practice Overseeing project financial performance, including budgeting and commercial oversight Collaborating with internal disciplines and external project teams You will play a pivotal role in maintaining standards while helping to expand the consultancy's ecology services and market presence. What you'll need to succeed Extensive experience in ecological consultancy, including leadership or senior management responsibility Strong background in UK ecology, including protected species licensing, EcIAs, and planning-related work Demonstrable experience managing teams, projects, and client relationships Strong commercial awareness, including budgeting and project financial management Full membership of CIEEM (or equivalent professional body) Proven ability to produce and review high-quality technical reports In-depth knowledge of UK environmental legislation and policy Experience with Biodiversity Net Gain and use of Defra metrics Excellent communication, leadership, and organisational skills Full UK driving licence What you'll get in return Competitive salary - 50,000 - 70,000 depending on your experience Flexible, home-based working model 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays Time off in lieu for out-of-hours survey work Contributory pension scheme Sick pay (following qualifying period) Generous CPD allowance and career development support Paid professional membership Home working allowance Opportunity to shape and lead a growing ecology team within an expanding consultancy What you need to do now If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career. Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at (url removed)

Your new company My client is a leading environmental consultancy specialising in ecology, arboriculture, and landscape architecture, operating primarily across the South East, London, and East Anglia. They deliver high-quality, evidence-based advice on a wide range of prestigious projects and take a multidisciplinary approach to their work. They are forward-thinking and committed to innovation, offering a collaborative and supportive environment where employees are encouraged to develop their skills and progress. With a strong focus on teamwork and professional growth, they provide an enjoyable and rewarding place to build your career. Your new role My client is seeking a proactive and experienced Senior or Principal Ecologist to join their team. This role focuses on ecology within the planning and development sector, leading surveys, assessments, and reporting to support planning applications. Key responsibilities include: Leading ecological surveys, including Phase 1 Habitat Surveys and protected species surveys Preparing Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIAs), Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) reports, and mitigation strategies Providing expert advice on biodiversity, habitat management, and environmental legislation Liaising with clients, local authorities, and statutory consultees Mentoring and supporting junior ecologists Attending site visits and stakeholder meetings and staying up to date with best practice and legislation What you'll need to succeed Proven experience in a Consultant or Senior Ecologist position Strong knowledge of UK ecology, habitat types, protected species, and relevant legislation (e.g. Wildlife & Countryside Act, Habitats Regulations) Experience producing ecological reports independently Relevant degree (BSc/MSc in Ecology or related discipline) Membership of a professional body such as CIEEM (preferred) Full UK driving licence Strong project management, communication, and report-writing skills What you'll get in return Competitive salary of 36,000 - 55,000 Flexible and hybrid working arrangements 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays and Christmas closure Holiday sell-back scheme Access to Perkbox for wellbeing and discounts Confidential 24/7 helpline Weekly Pilates sessions and access to an onsite tennis court Funding for one professional membership Employee bonus scheme Regular social events, including a Christmas party and AGM Ongoing professional development, training, and CPD support Exposure to high-profile projects A supportive, collaborative team environment with clear career progression opportunities What you need to do now If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career. Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at (url removed)

Senior Ecologist 41,000 - 50,000 Northampton We're working with an established environmental consultancy seeking an experienced Senior Ecologist to join their expanding team based near Northampton. This is an excellent opportunity to become part of a respected business that delivers ecological expertise on a wide variety of development and infrastructure projects throughout the UK. As a Senior Ecologist, you'll have the opportunity to lead projects, support junior team members and work closely with clients to deliver practical ecological solutions. Benefits: Competitive salary with regular reviews Flexible and hybrid working options Generous annual leave allowance Paid professional memberships and CPD support Private healthcare package Clear career progression opportunities Collaborative and supportive team culture Diverse and interesting project portfolio The role: Plan and undertake ecological surveys and site assessments Prepare high-quality technical reports and ecological documentation Manage projects, budgets and client relationships Provide ecological advice throughout the planning process Mentor junior ecologists and contribute to team development Requirements: Experience working as a Senior Ecologist or at a similar level within consultancy Excellent report writing and project management skills CIEEM membership or eligibility to join Protected species survey licences are advantageous Full UK driving licence Full right to work in the UK Must live in or within a reasonable commute of the Northampton office Comfortable travelling to sites as required If you are interested in this or other positions in the Ecology industry, please do not hesitate to contact Jack porter on (url removed) . We have many more vacancies available on our website. Please refer to (url removed) . This is a permanent role. Penguin Recruitment is operating as a Recruitment Agency in respect to this position.

Your new company My client is a growing, Midlands-based environmental consultancy providing pragmatic, solution-focused ecological and arboricultural services to a wide range of clients. They are particularly active in supporting residential and education sector developments, helping clients navigate environmental constraints and planning requirements efficiently. They are known for their hands-on, collaborative approach, offering clear communication, fast turnaround times, and commercially aware advice that keeps projects on track. As a small, close-knit team, they offer a supportive and flexible working environment where early-career staff are given meaningful responsibility and exposure to projects from the outset. Your new role As an Assistant/Consultant Arboricultural Consultant, you will support the delivery of arboricultural services across a range of projects. You will work closely with senior team members to provide technical input and help ensure compliance with relevant planning and environmental legislation. Key responsibilities will include: Assisting with tree surveys in accordance with BS5837:2012 Supporting the preparation of technical reports, including: Arboricultural Impact Assessments (AIA) Arboricultural Method Statements (AMS) Tree Protection Plans (TPP) Undertaking site visits and data collection Supporting project delivery to programme and budget Working collaboratively with ecologists, planners, and other environmental specialists Assisting with client liaison and maintaining strong working relationships What you'll need to succeed A relevant qualification in arboriculture, forestry, or a related discipline Some experience (placement or professional) undertaking tree surveys and reporting Working knowledge of BS5837 and UK planning processes Strong report writing and communication skills Ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team A full UK driving licence Desirable: Professional membership of the Arboricultural Association (or working towards) Experience using tree survey software Knowledge of wider environmental or ecological issues What you'll get in return Competitive salary - 28,000 - 35,000 DoE Flexible hybrid working Regular pay reviews undertaken annually. Clear progression opportunities - support towards development and memberships, and progression into more senior roles as your experience develops Development and mentoring - working closely with experienced consultants who will support your technical growth and help you gain confidence in both fieldwork and reporting A supportive team culture - working within a small, friendly team that values collaboration, communication, and mutual support Varied and engaging workload - a healthy mix of site work and office-based tasks Membership in industry bodies paid. Enhanced Maternity / Paternity pay (currently under review) Holiday entitlement and pay - 26 days per year plus 8 bank holidays. Each employee is also given a free additional day of annual leave on their birthday. No Timesheets! Manage your own time, with time back where you exceed your contracted hours. An overtime system is available to help you track your time, should you choose. We are currently reviewing our benefits. If there is a perk that you feel would be good, let me know, and my client will review it! What you need to do now If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career. Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at (url removed)

Senior Ecologist - Team Leader Opportunity An experienced and ambitious Senior Ecologist is sought to lead a growing ecology team within a respected environmental consultancy. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated professional who enjoys balancing technical excellence with team leadership and project delivery. The successful candidate will take the lead on a diverse portfolio of ecological projects, managing surveys, assessments, mitigation strategies and licensing work across a range of sectors. They will provide guidance and mentorship to junior ecologists, helping to develop skills, maintain high technical standards and foster a collaborative team culture. This role is ideally suited to someone who is passionate about ecology, confident in client-facing situations and eager to play a key role in shaping the future growth of a small, dynamic team. Benefits; Competitive salary commensurate with experience. Hybrid and flexible working arrangements. Generous annual leave entitlement. Professional membership fees paid. Ongoing training and career development support. Clear progression pathway into senior leadership. Company pension scheme. Employee wellbeing programme. Opportunity to influence the growth and direction of a close-knit ecology team. Supportive and collaborative working environment. Key Responsibilities Leading and managing ecological projects from inception through to completion. Mentoring and supporting junior team members. Overseeing survey programmes, reporting and technical quality assurance. Building and maintaining strong client relationships. Contributing to business development and strategic growth initiatives. Ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget and to the highest professional standards. Requirements; Degree-qualified in Ecology, Environmental Science or a related discipline. Significant consultancy experience within the ecology sector. Strong understanding of UK wildlife legislation and planning policy. Proven project management and report-writing skills. Protected species survey licences desirable. Full UK driving licence. This is an exciting opportunity for a Senior Ecologist who is ready to take the next step in their career, lead a talented team and make a meaningful contribution to a wide range of environmental projects. Interested in this opportunity? Please contact Ashleigh Garner from Penguin Recruitment for more information.

Your new company My client is a growing, Midlands-based environmental consultancy providing pragmatic, solution-focused ecological and arboricultural services to a wide range of clients. They are particularly active in supporting residential and education sector developments, helping clients navigate environmental constraints and planning requirements efficiently. They are known for their hands-on, collaborative approach, offering clear communication, fast turnaround times, and commercially aware advice that keeps projects on track. As a small, close-knit team, they offer a supportive and flexible working environment where early-career staff are given meaningful responsibility and exposure to projects from the outset. Your new role As an Assistant Ecologist, you will support the delivery of ecological services across a varied project portfolio. Your role will be split between fieldwork and office-based reporting, contributing to projects from initial survey through to planning submission. You will: Assist with ecological surveys, including Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs), UKHab habitat surveys, and protected species surveys Collect, record, and manage ecological data accurately in the field Support licensed ecologists during specialist surveys, including dusk/dawn work where required Assist in preparing technical reports and ecological assessments to support planning applications Produce figures and mapping using GIS software Support Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) calculations and assessments Work closely with senior staff to help deliver projects efficiently and to a high standard Contribute to providing practical, solution-led advice that aligns ecological requirements with client objectives This is a varied role offering exposure to the full project lifecycle and the opportunity to quickly build experience within a consultancy setting. What you'll need to succeed A degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related field A sound understanding of UK habitats, species, and wildlife legislation Some experience of ecological surveys in a consultancy setting Strong written communication skills, with the ability to contribute to technical reports Good organisational skills and attention to detail A full UK driving licence and willingness to travel to sites It would also be beneficial if you have: Experience with UKHab classification Knowledge of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) Familiarity with GIS software (e.g. QGIS or ArcGIS) Membership with CIEEM Experience assisting with protected species surveys Just as important as technical skills, my client is looking for someone who is enthusiastic, reliable, and solutions-focused, with a genuine interest in developing a career in ecological consultancy. What you'll get in return A competitive salary, ranging from £28,000 to £35,000, varying with experience, and a performance-based bonus at the end of each year. Flexible hybrid working Regular pay reviews undertaken annually. Clear progression opportunities - support towards protected species licences, CIEEM membership, and progression into more senior roles as your experience develops Development and mentoring - working closely with experienced consultants who will support your technical growth and help you gain confidence in both fieldwork and reporting A supportive team culture - working within a small, friendly team that values collaboration, communication, and mutual support Varied and engaging workload - a healthy mix of site work and office-based tasks Membership in industry bodies paid. Enhanced Maternity / Paternity pay (currently under review) Holiday entitlement and pay - 26 days per year plus 8 bank holidays. Each employee is also given a free additional day of annual leave on their birthday. No Timesheets! Manage your own time, with time back where you exceed your contracted hours. An overtime system is available to help you track your time, should you choose. We are currently reviewing our benefits. If there is a perk that you feel would be good, let me know, and my client will review it! What you need to do now If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.If this job isn't quite right for you but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career. Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk

Location: Thurrock, Essex (On-site / Project-based) Contract Type: Long-term Contract Sector: Major Infrastructure (Highways & Civil Engineering) About the Opportunity We are currently recruiting a Senior Site Ecologist to spearhead the ecological delivery on a high-profile, major highways infrastructure project based in Thurrock, Essex. This role is perfect for an experienced Ecologist who thrives in a fast-paced construction environment and excels at bridging the gap between engineering teams and environmental legislation. You will be joining a leading-edge highways delivery team, ensuring that a legacy of sustainability and environmental compliance is built into every phase of the project. What You'll Be Doing As the senior ecological authority on site, you will work closely with the project Environmental Manager and Technical Specialists to lead environmental delivery. Your day-to-day will involve: Leadership & Compliance: Oversee the implementation of project ecological requirements and take ownership of developing and executing comprehensive ecological management plans. On-Site Advisory: Provide pragmatic, cost-effective advice to construction and operational teams, ensuring legal compliance while keeping construction moving forward. Stakeholder Management: Build and maintain trusted relationships with design teams, clients, internal stakeholders, and environmental regulators. Systems & Governance: Maintain the project's environmental management systems in line with evolving legislation, leading investigations and reporting on any ecological incidents on site. Mentorship: Coach and upskill on-site construction teams in applying practical ecological controls and mitigations. What We Are Looking For (Essential) Expert Knowledge: Deep understanding of ecological management, mitigation strategies, and the specific environmental legislation governing large-scale developments. Construction Literacy: Strong familiarity with environmental management processes specifically within a utilities, construction, or civil engineering site environment. Commercial Acumen: A good level of commercial awareness to ensure ecological solutions are both compliant and practical for a major project budget. Communication: Exceptional interpersonal skills to liaise with everyone from site operatives to senior regulators, alongside solid MS Office skills (Word, Excel, Outlook). Logistics: A full UK driving licence and the flexibility to travel as required by the project. Preferred Attributes (Desirable) Experience working on major, large-scale infrastructure or highways schemes. Educated to Degree or Master's level in Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related discipline. Holder of at least one protected species survey licence (ideally Hazel Dormouse or Bat Level 1 / 2). Full Membership of CIEEM. If you are interested, please hit apply! Randstad CPE values diversity and promotes equality. No terminology in this advert is intended to discriminate against any of the protected characteristics that fall under the Equality Act 2010. We encourage and welcome applications from all sections of society and are more than happy to discuss reasonable adjustments and/or additional arrangements as required to support your application. Candidates must be eligible to live and work in the UK. For the purposes of the Conduct Regulations 2003, when advertising permanent vacancies we are acting as an Employment Agency, and when advertising temporary/contract vacancies we are acting as an Employment Business.

Head of Ecology 70,000 - 75,000 Cambridge This is a fantastic opportunity for a Head of Ecology looking to take ownership of a growing team and play a key role in shaping the future direction of ecological services. The successful Head of Ecology will oversee project delivery, support business development and provide technical leadership across a diverse project portfolio. Based near Cambridge, this role offers significant scope for professional influence and career progression. What's on offer: Competitive salary 70,000 - 75,000 and comprehensive benefits package Senior leadership opportunity within a growing consultancy Flexible and hybrid working arrangements Professional development and training support Pension scheme Generous holiday allowance Opportunity to influence business strategy Supportive and collaborative culture The role: Lead and manage the ecology team Oversee ecological surveys, assessments and reporting Provide technical expertise and quality assurance Develop and maintain client relationships Support business growth and tender submissions Mentor and develop ecologists across the team Ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget Requirements: Significant consultancy experience, ideally at Head of Ecology level Strong knowledge of UK ecological legislation and planning policy Proven leadership and team management experience Excellent project management and report writing skills Experience managing client relationships and project delivery Full UK driving licence Full right to work in the UK Must live in or near the Cambridge office location Degree in Ecology, Environmental Science or a related discipline If you are interested in this or other positions in the Ecology industry, please do not hesitate to contact Jack porter on (url removed) . We have many more vacancies available on our website. Please refer to (url removed) . This is a permanent role. Penguin Recruitment is operating as a Recruitment Agency in respect to this position.

Senior Ecologist 37,000 - 47,000 Wolverhampton A leading multidisciplinary environmental consultancy is seeking a Senior Ecologist to join its growing team based near Telford. This well-established practice delivers ecology, landscape architecture and arboricultural services across a diverse portfolio of projects for public and private sector clients throughout the UK. This is an excellent opportunity for a Senior Ecologist looking to take ownership of projects, work alongside experienced environmental professionals and contribute to delivering sustainable, nature-positive outcomes. The successful Senior Ecologist will undertake ecological surveys, prepare technical reports, manage projects and build strong relationships with clients and stakeholders. The Senior Ecologist will also support junior team members and play a key role in the continued growth of the business. This Senior Ecologist position offers a varied workload and strong opportunities for professional development. What's on offer: Competitive salary dependent on experience Flexible working arrangements Professional membership support and training Career progression opportunities Friendly and collaborative team environment Diverse and interesting project portfolio Generous holiday allowance Pension scheme Requirements: Degree in Ecology, Environmental Management or a related discipline Experience working within ecological consultancy Strong ecological survey, assessment and report writing skills Knowledge of UK wildlife legislation and planning policy Membership of CIEEM or working towards it Full UK driving licence Full right to work in the UK Ability to commute to and work from the Telford area regularly Living in or near to the office location Strong communication and project management skills If you are interested in this or other positions in the Ecology industry, please do not hesitate to contact Jack porter on (url removed) . We have many more vacancies available on our website. Please refer to (url removed) . This is a permanent role. Penguin Recruitment is operating as a Recruitment Agency in respect to this position.

Senior / Principal Aquatic Ecologist Uk Wide. Our client has one of the most respected biodiversity, EIA and planning practices in the UK, with a well-established aquatic ecology team delivering high-quality ecological services on complex projects across a wide range of sectors with the built and natural environment. The Opportunity Our client is seeking a Senior Aquatic Ecologist to join their growing Aquatic Ecology team. The role is ideally suited to a freshwater ecologist, although experience in marine ecology would be advantageous. You will provide specialist aquatic ecology inputs to a diverse portfolio of projects and support the continued growth of the team through technical excellence and collaboration. With access to an extensive UK and international project portfolio, the role also offers opportunities to work on innovative overseas projects alongside international colleagues. The team is recognised for operating at the leading edge of professional practice, with a strong reputation for innovation and technical quality. The role is open to candidates nationwide. Flexible and reduced working hours will be considered. Key Responsibilities Undertake aquatic field surveys in freshwater and/or marine environments Lead at least one survey type (ideally fish surveys) and support a wider range of freshwater surveys (macroinvertebrates, macrophytes, diatoms, water quality) Manage and contribute to aquatic ecological assessments, including PEAs, EIAs, HRAs, WFD Assessments and marine assessments Provide aquatic ecology inputs across all project stages, from bidding and feasibility through to assessment and detailed design Support licence applications, including marine licences and flood risk activity permits Mentor and support junior team members About You Professional experience in a similar aquatic ecology role Degree (BSc or MSc) in freshwater biology, marine biology or a related discipline Strong knowledge of UK and European aquatic legislation, including the HRA process Experience in aquatic survey design and delivery Excellent report writing and communication skills Working knowledge of EIA, HRA and WFD assessments Membership of CIEEM or an equivalent professional body This is an excellent opportunity to join a people-focused consultancy delivering impactful aquatic ecology work. The post includes a generous base and benefits with excellent career opportunities.

Senior Ecologist 36,000 - 44,000 Stratford Upon Avon A leading environmental consultancy is seeking a Senior Ecologist to join its growing team based in Stratford-upon-Avon. Working across a diverse range of development, infrastructure, renewable energy and conservation projects, this is an excellent opportunity for a Senior Ecologist looking to take ownership of projects while mentoring junior team members. As a Senior Ecologist, you will lead habitat and protected species surveys, prepare ecological reports including PEAs, EcIAs and BNG assessments, manage projects, liaise with clients and support business growth through technical expertise and project delivery. The Senior Ecologist will work closely with multidisciplinary environmental specialists on projects across the UK. What's on offer: Competitive salary and annual bonus Private medical insurance Income protection scheme Flexible and hybrid working options Ongoing training and professional development Clear career progression opportunities Supportive and collaborative team environment Opportunity to work on nationally significant projects Requirements: Minimum 3 years' experience within ecological consultancy Degree in Ecology or a related discipline Strong habitat and protected species survey experience Experience producing PEAs, EcIAs and BNG assessments Good knowledge of UK wildlife legislation and planning policy Strong project management and report writing skills Full UK driving licence Full right to work in the UK Full or Associate CIEEM membership, or eligibility Must live within a commutable distance of the Stratford-upon-Avon office If you are interested in this or other positions in the Ecology industry, please do not hesitate to contact Jack porter on (url removed) . We have many more vacancies available on our website. Please refer to (url removed) . This is a permanent role. Penguin Recruitment is operating as a Recruitment Agency in respect to this position.