Principal Ecologist – Cambridge
A respected UK environmental consultancy is looking to appoint a Principal Ecologist to join its growing Cambridge team. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced ecologist ready to take on a leadership role within a well-established consultancy that is part of a wider global environmental and engineering group. As Principal Ecologist, you will lead a varied portfolio of projects, providing technical direction and mentoring a growing team of ecologists. You will play a key role in project management, client liaison, ecological assessment, and reporting, while contributing to integrated, multi-disciplinary design and planning teams.
What’s on Offer;
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Competitive salary, reflective of experience and market value
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Flexible and hybrid working options to support work-life balance
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Involvement in high-profile projects across infrastructure, renewables, water, and the built environment
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Clear career progression with structured professional development
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A collaborative and inclusive culture, with access to multidisciplinary technical specialists
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Comprehensive benefits package including private healthcare, pension, and generous annual leave
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Strong company-wide commitment to sustainability and biodiversity net gain
Key Responsibilities;
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Lead and deliver ecological input from project inception through to completion
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Design, manage, and oversee ecological surveys and assessments, including EIA and HRA
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Provide technical review and quality assurance of reports and deliverables
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Build and maintain strong client relationships, supporting business development initiatives
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Mentor and support junior team members in their professional development
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Ensure all work aligns with current legislation, industry best practice, and client expectations
You will ideally have;
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Extensive experience within ecological consultancy or a similar environment
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Strong working knowledge of UK and EU wildlife legislation and planning policy
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Demonstrated experience managing ecological components of complex projects
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Technical expertise in one or more specialist areas (e.g., bats, great crested newts, ornithology, botany)
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Full Member of CIEEM (or eligible)
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Confident in project management and client-facing responsibilities
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Protected species licences (desirable)
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Full UK driving licence
Interested in taking the next step in your ecological career? Apply today or contact Ashleigh Garner at Penguin Recruitment for more information.
