Principal Ecologist

We provide the full range of ecological services for development and work on an interesting mix of projects, from large-scale residential developments, to renewable energy projects and the restoration of historical monuments. We cover the whole of the South East, with most of our work carried out in the southern Home Counties – East and West Sussex, Kent, Surrey and Hampshire.

Key Responsibilities

• Day-to‑day client liaison
• Careful project management against time and budgets
• Undertaking field surveys
• Producing high‑quality reports
• Providing support to more junior members of staff

In return you’ll receive continuous training and support to develop your career goals, contribute to a wide variety of site and desk‑based activities, and work in a stunning South Downs location with a lovely bunch of friendly and helpful colleagues.

What We’re Looking For

• Degree or equivalent in ecology or a related discipline
• Strong experience in conducting habitat surveys and protected species surveys
• Ability to produce high quality technical outputs, including Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, protected species survey reports, mitigation plans, etc.
• Great verbal and written communication skills
• Natural England survey licence for at least one species/groups
• Valid UK driving licence and access to your own car

Further Desirable Skills

• Experience in obtaining European Protected Species Mitigation licences
• Drafting or contributing to Ecological Impact Assessments and Habitats Regulations Assessments
• Knowledge of Biodiversity Net Gain and experience of assessments using the Defra metric
• Working with other environmental disciplines

What We Can Offer

• Competitive salary (commensurate with experience) plus starting bonus for direct applications
• Opportunity to demonstrate and develop your project management skills
• CIEEM membership and dedicated personal development budget
• Flexible & hybrid working
• Established TOIL system
• Access to car club / daily rental account
• Payment of professional subscription
• Contributory pension
• Private medical insurance
• 31 days annual leave
• Your birthday off in addition

Job Details

Role: Principal Ecologist (ideally full time, but we’re flexible)

Base location: 10 mins outside Brighton, but we offer flexible working arrangements

Salary range: £45k and up; commensurate with experience

Apply to: hello@ueec.co.uk

Our success is founded on the quality and wellbeing of our team, and we are committed to achieving mutual benefits through continuing professional development and positive workplace practices which value individuals.

We work in sectors including residential, commercial, education and renewable energy developments, transport infrastructure and local development planning.

This role presents a fantastic opportunity for a skilled principal ecologist looking for their next challenge…

Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level

Employment type: Full‑time

Job function: Research, Analyst, and Information Technology