Are you an experienced ecologist seeking the next step in your career? Do you want to enhance your involvement in complex and rewarding projects? Are you looking to join a well-established consultancy known for being a great place to work? If you're a skilled, energetic professional ready to contribute to a dynamic team and tackle new challenges in ecological practice, this opportunity might be perfect for you.

Our client is currently seeking an enthusiastic Senior or Principal Ecologist to join their growing team in Sheffield.

As a key member of their ecology team, you will play a vital role in delivering high-quality assessments and services for a variety of projects, collaborating closely with ecologists, landscape architects, and environmental planners. Your responsibilities will include:

• Managing projects through all phases, providing expert advice on ecology and biodiversity to clients, stakeholders, and project teams.
• Planning, leading, and conducting ecological surveys.
• Undertaking environmental impact assessments, biodiversity net gain assessments, and preparing a range of ecological reports and strategies.
• Designing and implementing mitigation measures to enhance biodiversity and protect ecological features.
• Mentoring junior staff, sharing your expertise to develop their skills and professional judgment.
• Building and maintaining strong relationships with clients, contractors, and regulatory bodies.

About You

• Degree level or higher in Ecology or a related field.
• At least 4-5 years' experience in ecological consultancy, with a proven track record in project management for medium to large scale and complex sites.
• Proficient in advising on Biodiversity Net Gain, including the use of the DEFRA Statutory Biodiversity Metric and preparing related reports and plans.
• Demonstrable experience in producing complex reports, including but not limited to Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEA), Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA), Environmental Statements, Habitats Regulations Assessments (HRA), and Species and Habitat Management Plans.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• In-depth knowledge of ecology and wildlife protection within the context of UK legislation and planning.
• May possess a particular ecological specialism or hold protected species licenses, though all-round skills and knowledge are highly valued.
• Competency in Microsoft Office, with GIS software experience being advantageous but not essential.
• Membership or eligibility for membership with a relevant professional body (e.g., Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM)).
• A full UK driving license and access to a vehicle.

About the Client

Our client is one of the UK’s leading integrated design practices, with a rich history spanning over 60 years. They have a well-rounded, multi-disciplinary approach, bringing together expertise in masterplanning, environmental assessment, urban design, landscape architecture, ecology, and green infrastructure. The company became employee-owned in 2021, enabling the team to share in the business’s growth and success while remaining independent and adaptable.

Their ecology team is led by directors who have advanced from junior roles within the company, ensuring a supportive environment that values professional growth. With over 120 ecologists across five offices in the UK, the team is well-equipped to deliver award-winning solutions in sensitive locations.

What’s on Offer

• Competitive salary: Senior Ecologist £32-36K; Principal Ecologist £39-£45K+ (dependent on experience).
• Annual bonus opportunities.
• Enrollment in a pension scheme, 25 days of holiday, a compressed working week, and a holiday purchase system.
• BUPA health and wellbeing cashback scheme.
• A focus on staff well-being, with various volunteering and social activities available.