Principal Ecologist

We are seeking a high-calibre Principal Ecologist to join our growing ecology team. This is an exciting opportunity to become part of a well-established and thriving consultancy, working across ecology and environmental projects in the South West and beyond.

This role is perfect for an ambitious, senior consultant or experienced Principal Ecologist who wants to drive the standard of ecological work, manage a growing team, and shape the future of a successful business. You will provide technical leadership, mentorship, and guidance across the ecology team, while also contributing to hands-on project work.

We are looking for someone who can prioritise effectively, work on their own initiative, and meet tight deadlines, while nurturing a positive team culture and ensuring high-quality delivery.

Why this role is exciting:

• Lead a talented ecology team and influence the quality, culture, and growth of our consultancy
• Opportunities to develop your career, expand specialist skills, and take ownership of projects
• Flexible working arrangements, including home/office mix
• 4-Day Work Week (reduced hours, competitive pay) supporting work-life balance
• Local projects (majority within 1 hour of Bristol) with limited evening/night work
• Work across diverse ecological projects including EcIA, EPS licensing, HRAs, ES chapters, and protected species surveys

Essential Skills and Experience

• Essential Skills and Experience:
• 8+ years’ experience in ecological consultancy
• Expertise in higher-level ecological reporting (EcIA, EPS license preparation, HRA, ES chapters)
• Genuine enthusiasm for ecology and the environment
• Experience managing or mentoring junior ecologists
• Survey licences for one or more protected species (bats, newts, dormice), or recognised specialist in another taxa
• Strong understanding of Biodiversity Net Gain, Phase 1/NVC habitat surveys, and protected species surveys
• Experience in designing and implementing mitigation
• Technical review of ecological reports
• Excellent communication skills with colleagues, clients, and third parties
• Full or chartered member of CIEEM (or eligible)
• Full UK driving licence and access to own car

Desirable skills:

• Experience in sales or business development, or willingness to learn
• Advanced expertise in a specialist ecological area (e.g., bats, newts, botany)
• EPS Mitigation licences or specialist mitigation class licences (e.g., Bat ER, Badger class)
• Degree or equivalent in an ecology-related discipline
• Experience with QGIS or ArcGIS (training can be provided)

Who we are looking for:

• A well-rounded consultant ready to take responsibility for a growing team
• Someone who can mentor and motivate colleagues, ensuring high standards across projects
• A candidate who lives within commuting distance of Long Ashton, Bristol (or is willing to relocate), but enjoys the flexibility of a mix of office and home working

If you are ready to take the next step in your ecology career and make a real impact on a thriving consultancy, we would love to hear from you.

To apply: Please send your CV and covering letter to ecology@abricon.com